| abstract |
Sterile beverage products are made by mixing beverage ingredients together. The beverage ingredients comprise a protein source, such as a milk protein concentrate, and at least one buffer, and at least one buffer comprises baking soda. Preferably, the at least one buffer further comprises a lemon juice concentrate. The pH of the beverage ingredients is adjusted to a level of 6.7 to 7.0 using at least one buffer. The beverage ingredients are then heated to at least 139 DEG C, and at least one buffer prevents precipitation of the protein source during heating. Thereafter, the beverage ingredients are packaged as a plurality of sterile beverage products. |