2% milk

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Common questions

Is 2% milk healthy?

2% milk scores 76/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product is minimally processed, consisting primarily of reduced fat milk and nonfat milk, which provide essential nutrients like calcium and protein.

How processed is 2% milk?

2% milk is NOVA Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive 2% milk's score?

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

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2% milk

76 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 0
Category Milk
Summary

This product is minimally processed, consisting primarily of reduced fat milk and nonfat milk, which provide essential nutrients like calcium and protein. The addition of vitamins A and D3 enhances its nutritional profile, supporting bone health and overall wellness. The low level of processing and absence of harmful additives contribute to its favorable rating.

Key ingredients 4

Vitamin D3
Good

Vitamin D3 is added to milk to enhance its nutritional profile, supporting bone health and calcium absorption. It is derived from lanolin or fish oil and is the most effective form of vitamin D for raising blood levels. Fortification helps prevent vitamin D deficiency, especially in populations with limited sun exposure.

Benefits

Enhances calcium absorption and supports bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

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Reduced Fat Milk
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Rich in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

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Nonfat Milk
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Provides calcium and vitamin D, important for bone health, without added fat.

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Vitamin A Palmitate
Neutral

Vitamin A palmitate is added to fortify milk with vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function. It is a synthetic form of vitamin A, commonly used in fortified foods. The fortification process ensures adequate vitamin A intake, especially in reduced-fat products.

Risks

Excessive intake of vitamin A can lead to toxicity, but this is unlikely from fortified foods alone.

Benefits

Supports vision and immune health by providing an essential nutrient.

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Processing

Group 1 · Minimally processed

Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

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