Key findings
- 1Standard pasteurized milk is among the least processed foods in the dairy aisle
- 2In our analysis, the milk category averages a Processing Score of 3.7, which is Level 2
- 3Plant milks are usually more processed than cow's milk because of the stabilizers and emulsifiers needed for texture
- 4Flavored milks and milkshake-style products are the most processed, with multiple additives
Why is Milk Level 2 on average?
Pasteurization (heating to kill pathogens) and homogenization (breaking up fat globules for uniform texture) are mechanical/thermal processes, not chemical ones. Raw milk is even less processed but carries food safety risks. Ultra-pasteurized (UHT) milk uses higher temperatures for longer shelf life but adds no ingredients. Plant milks require blending, straining, and typically add emulsifiers (lecithin), stabilizers (gellan gum), and fortified vitamins.
How 3,899 milk products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Milk brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a milk label
- 1
Cow's milk should list only: milk, possibly vitamins A and D
- 2
Ultra-pasteurized milk is not more processed; it is just heated to a higher temperature
- 3
Plant milks: look for versions without carrageenan or guar gum
- 4
Flavored milks with added sugars and artificial flavors are far more processed than plain milk
Which ingredients should you watch for?
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Frequently asked questions
Is pasteurized milk considered processed?
Pasteurization is a minimal process (heating and cooling). It does not add any ingredients or chemicals. Pasteurized milk remains among the least processed foods in the dairy aisle.
Is oat milk more processed than cow's milk?
Yes. Oat milk requires blending oats with water, straining, and typically adding oil, stabilizers, and fortified vitamins. It has more ingredients and more processing steps than plain cow's milk. Search oat milk to see its own average.
Is raw milk less processed?
Yes, raw milk is technically unprocessed. However, pasteurization is recommended for food safety, and the minimal processing it involves does not add any ingredients to the milk.