What is Milk?

Many of us grew up with milk; we had it with dinner, in our cereal, and now also enjoy it in lattes and recipes.

But as familiar as some of us may be, we know folks still have questions. That’s where we come in. We’ve collected all of our resources to help you find the answers you need on what is in milk, its nutrients, and more!

What is Milk?

The milk most of us grew up with is cow’s milk, which is usually fortified with vitamins A and D.

Types of Milk

Some of the most common varieties include whole milk, 2 percent reduced-fat milk, 1 percent low-fat milk and fat-free milk (learn what milk percentages mean here), not to mention chocolate milk, other flavored milks and varieties that are often used in cooking and baking like buttermilk, evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk.

Where Milk Comes From

The cow’s milk that you can buy at the store likely comes from your local dairy farm.

• Learn more about how milk travels from farm to fridge.
• What is pasteurization? Find out how pasteurization helps keep your milk safe.
• What is homogenization? Why is milk homogenized?

Why Milk is a Nutritious Choice

Low-fat milk provides a high level of several essential nutrients compared to its calories.

• How much dairy should you enjoy daily? Find out here.
• Have lactose intolerance? Find more information here.
• We busted four chocolate milk myths.
• Does milk help you grow?
• Use this chart to understand how milk compares to alternatives to milk.
• 9 milk nutrition facts you need to know.

Common Milk Questions Answered

• Why do we drink cow’s milk?
• Should kids drink milk?
• Can you freeze milk?
• Does milk help with heartburn?
• What do expiration dates mean?
• Why is vitamin D added to milk?
• Does milk cause acne?
• Does milk have gluten?
• Are there antibiotics in my milk?
• How much sugar is in milk?
• Are there any nutritional differences between convention and organic milk?

Learn more!

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