A process for the production of low-bacteria milk powders having a whey protein nitrogen index (WPNI) of at least 2 is suggested, wherein(a) solids are removed from raw milk in a process known in itself, then the cream is separated,(b) the skim milk such obtained is subjected to microfiltration,(c) the permeate such obtained is pasteurized,(d) the pasteurized permeate such obtained is concentrated to a dry mass of from 30 to 50% by weight and the retentate is discarded,(e) the concentrate such obtained is subjected to thermal treatment for a period of at least 15 seconds at a temperature of at least 72° C., and(f) the thermally treated product is processed to a dry powder.
