
Cheddar cheese contains at least 50% fat relative to the total solids.Swiss cheese contains at least 43% fat relative to the total solids.Cottage cheese contains at least 4% fat.Lowfat cottage cheese contains 0.5–2% fat.Dry curd and nonfat cottage cheese contain less than 0.5% fat.Non-fat milk, also labeled "fat-free milk" or "skim milk", contains less than 0.5% fat.Commercial products generally contain the minimum legal amount of fat with any excess being removed to make cream, a valuable commodity. Many other countries also have standards for minimum fat levels in dairy products. In the U.S., there are federal standards for butterfat content of dairy products.

See also: Fat content of milk § Terms for fat content by country Milk fatty acids, length, and position on glycerol (1, 2, 3) Fatty acid A study by the US Department of Agriculture showed that vaccenic acid raises both HDL and LDL cholesterol, whereas industrial trans fats only raise LDL with no beneficial effect on HDL.

However, two Canadian studies have shown that vaccenic acid could be beneficial compared to vegetable shortenings containing trans fats, or a mixture of pork lard and soy fat, by lowering total LDL and triglyceride levels. In light of recognized scientific evidence, nutritional authorities consider all trans fats equally harmful for health and recommend that their consumption be reduced to trace amounts.

Trans fats may be also found in some industrially produced foods, such as shortenings obtained by hydrogenation of vegetable oils. The predominant kind of trans fat found in milk is vaccenic fatty acid. Trans fats occur naturally in meat and milk from ruminants. Moderation is key when incorporating whole milk into your diet, especially if you have specific health conditions, such as high cholesterol or heart disease.Black: Saturated grey: Monounsaturated green: Polyunsaturated blue: Transīutterfat contains about 3% trans fat, which is slightly less than 0.5 grams per US tablespoon. It's important to note that while whole milk contains more fat, it can still be part of a healthy diet when consumed in adequate amounts. Its lower fat content makes it a favourable choice for individuals aiming to reduce their overall calorie intake or limit their saturated fat consumption. On the other hand, if you are looking to reduce your fat intake, manage your weight, or have specific dietary restrictions, skimmed milk might be a better option. The higher fat content in whole milk can provide satiety and contribute to a well-rounded diet. If you are seeking to maintain or gain weight, require a higher calorie intake, or prefer a creamier taste, whole milk can be a suitable choice. The choice between whole milk and skimmed milk depends on individual health goals, taste preferences, and dietary patterns. Skimmed milk also tends to be lower in calories compared to whole milk, making it a suitable option for individuals aiming to manage their weight or reduce their overall calorie intake.Ĭhoosing the right milk for your health goals Calcium is particularly noteworthy, as it plays a vital role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, regulating blood pressure, and supporting muscle function. Although the fat is reduced, skimmed milk remains a good source of several essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and vitamins D and B12. Skimmed milk, also known as non-fat or fat-free milk, has had the fat removed, resulting in a significantly lower fat content (less than 0.5 per cent). Skimmed milk: Low in fat, high in calcium Additionally, whole milk contains higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid associated with potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. These fat-soluble vitamins play crucial roles in supporting bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. This fat content contributes to the milk's nutritional profile, providing essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Often known as regular milk, whole milk is a popular choice for its rich and creamy texture, primarily due to its higher fat content (3.25 percent).

So, before you pour yourself a glass next time, read on to find which one would be the healthier pick for you. The answer, however, is not that obvious or simple. For years, nutritional guidelines have made people believe that whole milk must be avoided due its saturated fat content. The most common question is which milk is actually the best for consumption - whole or skimmed? The difference between these two popular varieties mainly lies in their fat contents. Be it for your cereal bowl for breakfast, your evening latte, or a nightcap for a sound sleep, a glass of milk can make a huge difference to your diet.
