Choose dairy milk by the feature that matters for your household: milkfat level, lactose information, flavor or recipe use. These are separate product features, so a lactose-free carton can still have a different milkfat level from another one. Compare the exact package, serving size, Nutrition Facts and storage instructions.
Choose a carton by the feature that matters to you, then compare the exact product. Milkfat level, lactose information, flavor and recipe fit are separate checks; none of them tells you all the other label details.
Compare by milkfat
The FDA standard describes beverage milk as containing at least 3.25 percent milkfat, and it allows milkfat to be adjusted. Cartons may identify a specific level such as whole, 2 percent, 1 percent or nonfat. Use the displayed amount and Nutrition Facts rather than estimating from the name alone.
| Carton wording | What to compare | Recipe check |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | The stated milkfat amount, calories and other Nutrition Facts values for the serving size. | Use it when the recipe specifies whole milk or when that is the flavor and texture you want. |
| 2 percent or 1 percent | The stated fat amount and other label values against the same serving size. | Check whether the recipe depends on a particular fat level before substituting. |
| Nonfat or skim | The exact Nutrition Facts and any added ingredients in flavored versions. | Follow the recipe when it specifies nonfat or skim milk. |
Compare lactose information separately
Lactose-free and lactose-reduced products address lactose; they are still dairy milk products. NIDDK says these products may help lower the amount of lactose in a diet. Their milkfat level, added flavorings and Nutrition Facts can differ, so compare those details independently. If you need to avoid milk as an allergen, read the package’s milk allergen declaration rather than relying on lactose wording.
Check the full carton
Compare the serving size, calories, fat, protein, total and added sugars, calcium and vitamin D on the Nutrition Facts label. Flavored milk can have a different ingredient list and added-sugar amount from plain milk. Follow the carton for refrigeration and use after opening.
Evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk are separate concentrated cooking products with different standards and sweetness. See our evaporated versus sweetened condensed milk comparison when choosing a can for a recipe.
For a plant-based carton comparison, see our plant-based milk alternative guide. Our Nutrition Facts label guide explains serving size and % Daily Value. Browse the beverages category for more drink guides.
Sources checked November 5, 2026
Common questions
What does whole milk mean in the United States?
The FDA standard for beverage milk sets at least 3.25 percent milkfat for milk. Check the exact carton and Nutrition Facts for the product you are comparing.
Is lactose-free milk still dairy milk?
Yes. Lactose-free and lactose-reduced milk products are dairy milk products; their labeling concerns lactose. Check the package allergen statement if you need to avoid milk as an allergen.
How should I compare 2 percent and 1 percent milk?
Compare the exact milkfat amount and Nutrition Facts per the same serving size. For cooking, also follow the recipe's specified milk type.
Does lactose-free milk have the same nutrients as regular milk?
Products vary. Compare calories, protein, sugars, calcium and vitamin D on the Nutrition Facts label rather than assuming cartons match.