What are the benefits of drinking carbonated milk?

What is carbonated milk?

Carbonated milk is milk, or a milk and fruit blend, with added carbon dioxide so that it fizzes. Commercial attempts include Coca-Cola’s Vio (made from fruit, milk, sugar and bubbles, sold in the US around 2009 and pulled after poor sales, according to Food Dive) and a sparkling fruit and milk drink from the dairy Arla, sold in the UK, Singapore and the UAE according to the same article. A 2003 trade article also described a US fizzy milk soda called Crazy Cow. Several were short-lived, and the Food Dive article makes no nutrition or health claims.

Are there health benefits?

No health benefit has been shown for carbonation itself. What you get depends on the product:

• Protein and calcium from the milk it contains. A drink that is part water or juice will provide less per serving than plain milk.
• Sugar and calories from added sweeteners and fruit flavorings, which can be considerable.
• Taste and variety. People who like fizzy drinks may find it a way to drink a dairy-based product.

What should you check?

1. The Nutrition Facts panel for protein, calcium and added sugars per serving.
2. Whether the milk is pasteurized or ultra-heat-treated, and the storage instructions.
3. Allergen statements: it contains milk.
4. The percentage of milk in the product; it may be only part of the drink.

Is it the same as kefir or kumis?

No. Kefir and kumis are fermented milks that can be slightly fizzy from fermentation. Kumis, made from mare’s milk, contains a small amount of alcohol.

Can you carbonate milk at home?

Not safely with simple tricks. Dairy foams heavily and can spray when pressurized, and cartons or bottles not designed for pressure can burst. Buy a finished product instead.

Who should avoid it?

People with a milk allergy, and anyone told to limit sugar, should skip sweetened versions. Ask your doctor or dietitian if you are unsure.

General information; availability depends on your country.