Raw vs. Pasteurized Milk
At Pigeon Creek Farm, we offer both raw and pasteurized milk, each with their own benefits.
The best choice for you depends on your personal preferences, health concerns, and dietary needs.

What's the difference between pasteurized and raw milk?
Question:
Pasteurized milk is milk that’s been heated to a certain temperature.
Raw milk is milk that has not been processed, only strained before bottling.
Answer:
Pigeon Creek Farm’s pasteurized milk is cooked gently at a low temperature, so it retains many of the same nutritional benefits of raw milk. We do not homogenize our raw or pasteurized milk, meaning the cream will rise to the top. Leaving the fat molecules whole enables our bodies to easily absorb the beneficial nutrients found in milk.
Does raw milk taste different than pasteurized milk?
Question:
Raw milk is just like pasteurized milk, perhaps with a fresher and sweeter taste. This is similar to the difference between raw and cooked vegetables, where the raw version retains more of its natural flavor and nutritional value.
Answer:
What are the standards for raw and pasteurized milk?
Question:
Pigeon Creek Farm’s raw milk undergoes rigorous testing twice a month for bacteria, antibiotics, and pathogens. Our pasteurized milk is tested monthly, with additional tests for pathogens and to confirm proper pasteurization. Our pasteurized milk also meets the high standards for raw milk, which means you’re always getting the highest quality milk.
Answer:
What can I find in a glass of Pigeon Creek Farm milk?
Question:
In any glass of raw or pasteurized Pigeon Creek Farm milk you can expect to find Calcium, Vitamin C, Folate, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Iron, and minerals. These nutrients are bioavailable and ready to be absorbed due to the enzymes and protein carriers in the milk.
Raw milk’s diverse probiotics contribute to digestive health, a healthy gut microbiota, and reduced inflammatory issues. If you prefer not to drink raw milk, choosing our cream top option that is carefully handled and not ultra pasteurized is an excellent decision.
Answer:
Calcium
Vitamin C
Folate
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B6
Vitamin A
Vitamin D
Iron
Minerals