Whenever I step into an aeroplane I cannot avoid considering the risks associated with flying. Thoughts of mechanical failure, pilot error and ter rorist action fill my mind. I try to reassure myself with statistics which tell me there is greater chance of injury crossing the road. The moment the plane takes off I am resigned to my fate, placing faith in pilots who are highly qualified and superbly trained for the task of delivering me safely to my destination. To be a passenger in an aeroplane is to express faith in the systems used by the airline. It is to express a faith in the quality of the airline's organisation and the people who work within it. The same is true of surgery. Thoughts of mortality are difficult to avoid when facing the surgeon's knife. However, faith in the surgeon's training and skill; faith in the anaesthetist and theatre technicians, faith in the efficient resources and quality of the hospital all help to convince that there is little need to worry. Apart from flying and surgery there are many facets of life which entail risk, but, knowing the risks, we willingly place our confidence in others to deliver us safely. In the consumption of food, however, few of us consider the risks. Everyday, if we are fortunate, we eat food. Food sustains and gives us pleasure. Food supports our social interactions."

The first edition of this book rapidly established a reputation for providing a unique source of highly practical information on dairy product technology. Coverage is of products in which milk is either the main component or a less obvious ingredient. This new edition continues to explain methods of milk product manufacture, the technology involved, and how other influences affect finished products. Coverage is expanded to fill some important gaps, and in addition to three new chapters (microbiology, packaging, editorial introduction) The other chapters have been revised, enlarged, and brought up to date, Written for food technologists making dairy products, the book is also an essential source of reference for the industries ingredient suppliers and equipment manufacturers, and those working in academic and research institutions. The contributors have extensive practical experience of the industry.