Milk Ingredients

Milk is a nutrient-rich liquid food produced by the mammary glands of mammals. In the US, the term 'milk' typically refers to cow's milk, which is a primary source of nutrition for young mammals. It is composed of water, proteins (like casein and whey), fats, lactose (a sugar), vitamins, and minerals.

Milk and its derivatives are used in a vast array of food products. They provide richness, flavor, and texture, and act as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and nutritional enhancers. Milk ingredients are found in dairy products like cheese and yogurt, baked goods, beverages, sauces, and processed meats.

Milk is a source of essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. The US FDA considers milk a major food allergen. Health Canada also lists milk as a major allergen. The WHO/IARC has not classified milk itself. For lactose intolerance, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort due to the inability to fully digest lactose, the natural sugar in milk.