Milk

Milk Milk is one of the most nutritionally concentrated beverages known to man. Produced from the mammary glands of mammals, milk is typically the primary source of nutrition for young mammals. With this said, humans have mastered the rearing of milk from many animals to supplement their own needs. Today, common types of milk consumed by humans include cow’s milk, sheep milk, camel milk, yak milk and goat’s milk.
World consumption of milk topped 730 million tons in 2011, with the largest producer being India. In fact, over 6 billion people around the planet are known to consume milk on at least a weekly basis, while 5% of the world population is considered lactose intolerant. Milk is used to make a number of derivative products including cheese, butter, casein, whey protein, condensed milk and powdered milk.

Key Nutrients

Milk provides all the essential amino acids including Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan and Valine. Milk is also a great source of vitamin D and calcium.

Health Benefits

Vitamin D – Vitamin D helps to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones.

Essential amino acids provide the necessary building blocks for protein growth and development. This tends to promote healthy tissues and reduces the risk of certain cancers.

Calcium – Calcium is an important mineral for bone and teeth growth and maintenance. It is also an important mineral in terms of cardiovascular function.

Season

Milk can be found year round in any supermarket or retail shop.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 Cup (244 grams):

Calories (cKal): 122
Protein (grams): 8.05
Total Fat (grams): 4.83
Carbohydrates (grams): 11.71
Fiber (grams): 0

Buying and Storing

When buying milk, make sure the expiration date has not passed and the carton is not bloated. Store milk in your refrigerator up to the expiration date.