1. Introduction
The manufacture of full-cream milk powder involves various unit operations. In the traditional process, milk is standardized to the required ratio of fat to milk solids not fat (MSNF), preheated, concentrated to 45–50% total solids (TS), homogenized and dried. Homogenization is optional but is used in most operations as it improves the physical properties of full-cream milk powder. Homogenization of the full-cream milk concentrate reduces the particle size of the fat globules, alters the interface of the globule and lowers the free-fat content of the powder. A higher free-fat content of powder has been related to inferior rehydration properties, reduced flowability and increased rate of oxidation