Non-fat dry milk is made by removing the water from pasteurized non-fat milk. Instant non-fat dry milk is reconstituted with water, and it will have almost the same nutritional profile as any regular non-fat fluid milk. Non-fat dry milk powder can be used to increase your intake of calcium, protein or calories without adding additional saturated fats.
Calcium
Calcium is a major dietary mineral, and it is the most abundant mineral in your body, where most of it stored in your bones and teeth. Only about 1% of calcium is in the blood. Calcium is necessary for normal blood clotting as well as for muscle and nerve function; storing calcium in the bones and teeth keeps them strong. Adult males need about 1,000 mg calcium per day and most women need about 1,000 mg per day, although both sexes need more during the teen years and after age 50.
Calcium and Nutrition
Instant dry milk powder contains 283 mg of calcium per 1/3 cup of powder, which is enough to reconstitute 1 cup of fluid milk. It has 83 calories, 8 g of protein, 27 mg of magnesium, 227 mg of phosphorus, 392 mg of potassium, 126 mg of sodium, 1.01 mg of zinc and 6.3 mcg of selenium. It also contains small amounts of the B complex vitamins and may be fortified with vitamins A and D.
Calcium Foods
Calcium is found in dairy products, including cheese, sour cream, milk, yogurt and cream. A balanced diet with three or more servings of dairy products should provide you with sufficient amounts of calcium. One serving is equal to 8 oz. of milk or yogurt, 1.5 oz. of cheese or 2 oz. of processed cheese. Additional sources of dietary calcium include dark green vegetables, fish with bones and calcium-fortified foods.
Storage and Usage
Instant dry milk powder can be stored for up to one year in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration isn't necessary until you reconstitute the milk because the dry powder has no moisture and no fat. Mix the powder with water as directed on the label and store it in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. People who don't like to drink milk can boost their calcium by adding the powder to sauces, soups and stews while they are cooking.
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