Cardboard Vs. Plastic | Men's Journal (2024)

Q: Does it matter whether I buy milk in plastic jugs or cardboard containers?

A: Absolutely. Because light destroys vitamin A and riboflavin, two key nutrients in milk, the opacity of the milk container is important.

Milk in clear plastic jugs or glass bottles sitting in a lighted dairy case can lose up to 70% of its vitamin A and 20% of its riboflavin after just three days, according to studies conducted at Penn State. Besides this possible nutrient loss, light imparts an “off” flavor. To get the most nutritious and best-tasting product, you should buy your milk in cartons.

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