Regular, Organic, Raw: A Definitive Guide to Different Kinds of Milks

If you’ve been in a coffee shop in the past few years, you’re probably familiar with more than just whole, skim, and 2% milk. But did you know that the world of milk is even bigger than you think? Read on to learn about the many versions of this beneficial beverage.

“Regular” Milk

“Regular” milk, also known as the cow’s milk you can find at your local grocery store, comes in a few different varieties:

• Whole (full fat) milk
• 2% or 1% milk (sometimes called reduced-fat)
• Skim or skimmed milk (1% or less fat content)

Regular milk must be pasteurized and homogenized to meet health and safety standards. Pasteurization refers to a heating process that kills bacteria that can accumulate in milk. Homogenization refers to a blending process that ensures the saturated fat in milk does not separate from the liquid over time.

If you’ve ever been told to finish your milk because it’s good for your bones, your parents were paying attention in health class. Milk has high protein content (for instance, there are 8 grams of protein in 8 ounces of 1% milk) and contains lots of vitamin D.

Organic Milk

At first glance, organic milk and regular milk seem very similar, with the same categories (skim, whole, etc.) and similar labels. They are also both pasteurized and (usually) homogenized. However, there are a few specific differences between these types of milk. To be certified as organic, milk must meet the following USDA guidelines:

• Cows producing this milk cannot be given antibiotics or supplemental hormones.
• The cows must be given certified organic feed.
• The cows must get 30% or more of their diet from pasture grass (“grass-fed” cows).
• Farms raising the cows must only use organic fertilizers and pesticides.

Since organic milk involves more stringent regulations protecting the health and safety of cows, many people find that organic milk is kinder to both cows and the planet.

Raw Milk

Raw milk is another type of dairy milk. However, raw milk is not pasteurized or homogenized, unlike the regular or organic milk you can find at your local store. While it is important to carefully store this type of milk and consume it soon after opening, many people rave about raw milk’s health benefits. Some people think it’s tastier, too! You can decide for yourself by trying both from our small-batch creamery.

Milk Alternatives

Even though it can be beneficial for many people’s health, milk doesn’t suit everyone’s diet — or stomach. If you’re among the 35% of Americans who classify themselves as lactose intolerant, you might be better off trying a milk alternative in your coffee or for your ice cream sundae. There are many different alternative milks to try, from plant-based milk to nut milk. Here are a few kinds of milk worth mentioning:

• Soy milk
• Coconut milk
• Pea milk
• Oat milk
• Rice milk
• Hemp milk
• Cashew milk
• Almond milk
• Macadamia milk
• Goat’s milk

Shop Milk — and More — at The Old Dutch Cupboard!

Find glass-bottled milk, goat’s milk, and more delicious milk options right in Telford, PA, at The Old Dutch Cupboard! We also sell Blue Heirloom eggs, Nutty Novelties spreads, and much more. Stop in anytime, and we promise you’ll find something you and your family will enjoy!