About Dry Milk

"Non-fat dry milk is a wholesome dairy product made from fresh milk. Only the cream and water are removed. It still contains the calcium and other minerals, the vitamins, natural sugar and high quality protein that make liquid milk such a valuable food.

Dry milk should be stored in a tightly covered container. Dry milk powder will take in moisture and become lumpy and develop off-flavors. It will keep at room temperature for several months. For longer storage it is necessary to store in a cool, dry place.

The dry milk...does not mix easily for drinking purposes. Experience has shown it will mix in easier if the water is slightly warm, but not hot. Measure the powdered milk into a container and add about half of the water needed. Stir, shake, beat with wire whip or blender on slow speed to incorporate milk. Add enough water to make the amount of milk desired. Mix ingredients thoroughly, cover and refrigerate, preferably overnight. Any lumps will soften and can be stirred in the next day. (Or grate dry lumps on a metal strainer.) Store in the refrigerator like fresh milk. Use within 3-5 days. To improve the flavor for drinking, chill overnight and/or add a little vanilla or sugar.

When milk is specified in recipes, add dry milk to dry ingredients. The water for reconstitution should be included in liquid ingredients.

Milk is normally the main source of calcium and vitamin D in a child's diet. These nutrients are needed to build strong bones. If your child is on a diet without milk and is not drinking a formula, ask your doctor about calcium and vitamin D supplements. Most kids outgrow a milk allergy within the first 3 years of life, but some never do.

For allergies to cow's milk, your doctor may recommend a soy-based or casein-hydrolysate formula that will provide the nutrients usually found in milk and milk products. These formulas contain milk protein that has been extensively broken down so it isn't as likely to cause as allergic reaction as regular milk. Soy-based infant formulas are fortified with nutrients and can be used as long as the child will drink it."

(Source: "Food Storage Recipes - Using only the ingredients contained in the One-Month Basic Food Storage Kit", pg. 26)