Milk

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Milk healthy?

Milk scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This milk product is processed, as indicated by its ultra-filtered and fortified nature.

How processed is Milk?

Milk is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Milk's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Ultra-Filtered Skim Milk, Milk, Vitamin D3 count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Milk

Darigold Fit
75 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Northwest Dairy Association
Category Milk
Summary

This milk product is processed, as indicated by its ultra-filtered and fortified nature. It contains beneficial ingredients like ultra-filtered skim milk and milk, which provide essential nutrients such as calcium and protein. However, the addition of lactase enzyme and vitamins A and D3, while enhancing nutritional value, also contributes to its processed status, limiting its score potential.

Key ingredients 5

Ultra-Filtered Skim Milk
Good

Ultra-filtered skim milk is a processed form of milk that retains high protein content while reducing fat. The filtration process enhances the nutritional profile by concentrating proteins and removing lactose. It provides a good source of calcium and essential amino acids.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance. Low in fat, making it suitable for low-fat diets.

See more about Ultra-Filtered Skim Milk →
Milk
Good

Milk is a natural source of essential nutrients including calcium, vitamin D, and protein. It is minimally processed and provides a balanced nutritional profile. Regular consumption supports bone health and provides essential amino acids.

Risks

Potential lactose intolerance in some individuals may cause digestive discomfort.

Benefits

Excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, crucial for bone health. Provides high-quality protein necessary for muscle repair and growth.

See more about Milk →
Vitamin D3
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Essential for calcium absorption and bone health, helping to prevent deficiencies in populations with limited sun exposure.

See more about Vitamin D3 →
Lactase Enzyme
Neutral

Lactase enzyme is added to milk to break down lactose, making it easier to digest for lactose-intolerant individuals. It does not alter the nutritional content of milk but improves its digestibility. This enzyme is beneficial for those with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Facilitates digestion of lactose, allowing lactose-intolerant individuals to consume milk without discomfort.

See more about Lactase Enzyme →
Vitamin A Palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is a synthetic form of vitamin A added to fortify milk. It helps maintain vision, immune function, and skin health. While beneficial, it is a synthetic additive and does not occur naturally in milk.

Risks

Excessive intake of synthetic vitamin A can lead to toxicity, but this is unlikely at typical consumption levels.

Benefits

Supports vision and immune health, providing an essential nutrient that may be lacking in some diets.

See more about Vitamin A Palmitate →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Milk