What is permeate?
Permeate is a mix of natural lactose, vitamins, and minerals found in milk. It’s created through a filtering process called ultrafiltration and helps standardise milk’s taste and composition.
Last updated 30/01/2025
Permeate is made when milk is filtered through a fine 'sieve' or membrane using a technique called ultrafiltration. This filtering separates the lactose, vitamins and the minerals (collectively called permeate) from the milk protein and fat. Permeate is a super valuable part of fresh milk.
As milk is a natural food that comes straight from the cow, ultrafiltration is one way to standardise the protein content in milk right throughout the year. This ensures milk has a consistent taste as well as composition, which reflects the nutrition information panel.
Permeate is neither unhealthy nor unnatural, but some consumers prefer milk without it. In response, some manufacturers label their products as “permeate-free” or “no added permeate” to meet customer preferences.
Rest assured, government regulations ensure that all milk products meet strict food safety, quality, and consistency standards.
Was this useful?
Thank you for your feedback