The range, which includes skimmed, semi-skimmed and whole milk, is being launched to offer shoppers a convenient alternative or supplement to chilled milk that can help them to reduce food waste.
Tetra Pak said the milk is packed in its 1 litre Tetra BrikAseptic carton, a six layered package which keeps the “milk fresh and protected for up to six months, without the need for preservatives or refrigeration, until ready for consumption”.
In a statement, Tetra Pak said: “As long life milk also doesn’t need to be refrigerated in the supply chain or in store, the range uses less energy than milk products that need to be chilled. Furthermore the light-weight, stackable pack design makes it more efficient to transport, and extremely space-efficient on shelf and in the cupboard.”
The milk is produced in the UK by Crediton Dairy.
‘Excited’
Kerry Ann Ward, buyer at M&S explained: “Milk is an essential item for most of our customers. We have introduced our new range of long life milk so that they will always be able to have a supply of milk in the house without having to over buy chilled milk that can go off before they are able to use it all.
“This will help to cut down on unnecessary milk – and money – down the drain. Long life milk is also a handy option when refrigeration isn’t possible – great for outdoor events and outings over the summer!”
Carole Baker, senior product manager at Crediton Dairy added: “We’re really excited about the opportunity to bring great-tasting, British long life milk to M&S customers. Long life milk has nothing added or taken away, it is simply heated to a higher temperature than chilled milk to make it last longer. This means it has all the great nutritional benefits of chilled milk, but with the convenience of a much longer shelf life.”
Andrew Smith, marketing manager at Tetra Pak UK and Ireland said: “Long life milk is the preferred choice in many European countries and, as more consumers realise the benefits it offers – it can be conveniently stored in the cupboard ready for those occasions when milk supplies are running low, and has all the same applications as chilled milk – we hope to see it increase in popularity in the UK as well.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing these benefits to M&S shoppers for the first time, working with Crediton Dairy to pack M&S’ first ever range of long life milk in our Tetra Brik Aseptic cartons, which use our unique aseptic technology to keep the milk inside fresh and safe until customers are ready to enjoy it.”
