Kreemiminek

Kreemiminek is a term of Estonian origin that translates literally to "cream mining". It refers to the process of extracting or producing cream from milk. Historically, this was a common practice in rural households and dairy farms where milk was a staple product. The most traditional method involved allowing fresh milk to stand undisturbed for a period, during which the cream, being less dense, would naturally rise to the surface. This layer of cream could then be skimmed off.

Various tools and techniques were developed to facilitate this skimming process, ranging from simple spoons to specially designed skimming ladles with wide, shallow bowls. The efficiency of creaming was influenced by factors such as the fat content of the milk, the temperature of the milk, and the time allowed for separation. Warmer temperatures generally led to faster and more complete creaming.

In more modern times, industrial-scale creemiminek is achieved through mechanical means, primarily using centrifugal separators. These machines spin milk at high speeds, forcing the cream to the center while the skim milk is ejected from the outside. This method is far more efficient and yields a greater quantity of cream compared to the traditional skimming techniques. While the term "kreemiminek" is rooted in traditional dairy practices, it continues to be understood in Estonia as the fundamental process of separating cream from milk, regardless of the method employed.