Definition

Describing food, especially dairy products, that has not been treated with heat to kill harmful bacteria and extend shelf life.

Example

Many people prefer to drink unpasteurized milk for its natural flavor.

Conversation

Have you tried that new cheese shop downtown?

Not yet, but I heard they sell unpasteurized cheese.

Yeah, I think the flavor is supposed to be richer with unpasteurized options.

I’m a bit hesitant, though; isn’t it riskier to eat?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpasteurized → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "pasteurized" (from the name of Louis Pasteur, who developed the process of pasteurization). The word "unpasteurized" means not subjected to the process of pasteurization, which is used to kill harmful bacteria in food and beverages.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'pasteurized', which refers to the process of treating food to make it safe. This helps you remember that unpasteurized means food that hasn't gone through that safety treatment.

Visually Confused Words