Cow milk

Cow milk is the milk produced by dairy cattle, the dominant milk for human consumption worldwide. It is an emulsion of butterfat globules in a colloidal suspension of casein micelles, lactose, minerals, and whey proteins, typically containing about 3–4% fat and 3.3% protein. Beyond direct consumption, it is the raw material for cheese, yoghurt, butter, and milk powders. Its rich nutrient profile also makes it an excellent microbial growth medium, so pasteurization, cold storage, and hygienic milking are non-negotiable safety measures.