How to Pasteurize Goat's Milk at Home

Pasteurizing fresh goats milk takes a little heat and time.

Pasteurizing goat's milk kills microbes and bacteria that may be in the milk, making it safe to drink. Goat's milk should always be pasteurized before drinking or making yogurt or butter. No special equipment is needed to pasteurize goat's milk, as most everything you will need can be found in your kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Large stockpot
• Candy thermometer
• Clean jars and lids

Instructions

1. Wash a large stockpot with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly.

2. Pour the goat's milk into the pot and set it over medium heat on the stove top.

3. Insert a candy or other thermometer into the milk, ensuring that the tip reaches at least 1-inch into the liquid.

4. Bring the milk to a temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and maintain the temperature for 30 minutes. You may have to adjust the heat down to medium-low or low to accomplish this for the entire time period.

5. Pour the milk into clean jars, cover with airtight lids and refrigerate immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use clean equipment when handling raw milk of any type, including goats.

• Raw goat's milk should be chilled to 35 degrees Fahrenheit or less as soon as possible after milking, if you cannot pasteurize right away.

References

• "Storey's Guide to Raising Dairy Goats: Breeds, Care, Dairying"; Jerome D. Belanger; 2001
• University of California, Davis: Making Goat Butter at Home
• Ohio State University Extension: Preserving Beverages - Water, Juice and Milk