What is in pasteurized sheep milk, and how does it compare with cow milk?
USDA data show sheep milk is richer than whole cow milk: 108 kcal, 5.98 g protein, 7.0 g fat and 193 mg calcium per 100 g, against 61 kcal, 3.27 g protein and 3.2 g fat for whole cow milk. The FDA says pasteurization effectively kills milk pathogens with minimal impact on nutritional quality.
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In this article
What nutrients does sheep milk have?
The USDA lists fluid sheep milk per 100 g at 108 kcal, 5.98 g protein, 7.0 g fat, 5.36 g carbohydrate, 193 mg calcium and 44 mg sodium. A cup is 245 g, so one cup is about 265 kcal, 14.6 g protein, 17.2 g fat and 473 mg calcium (our calculation).
How does it compare with whole cow milk?
| Per 100 g (USDA) | Sheep milk | Whole cow milk |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 108 kcal | 61 kcal |
| Protein | 5.98 g | 3.27 g |
| Fat | 7.0 g | 3.2 g |
| Calcium | 193 mg | 123 mg |
So sheep milk has more calories and fat than whole cow milk, not fewer. It is a generic USDA entry, not a brand.
Why choose pasteurized milk?
The FDA says pasteurization effectively kills raw milk pathogens and is the only method that completely eliminates vegetative pathogens. It also says pasteurization has minimal impact on nutritional quality, with a little effect on vitamin levels. The FDA says children are more vulnerable than adults to raw milk pathogens, and that pregnant women, the elderly and hospitalized patients are at higher risk.
Does sheep milk have proven health benefits?
We found no official source stating that sheep milk improves digestion, skin or immunity, or that it is easier to digest than cow milk. Like cow milk, it contains lactose, so it is not a safe swap for people with lactose intolerance. Ask a doctor or dietitian if you have an allergy or intolerance.
People also ask
How many calories are in sheep milk?
USDA lists 108 kcal per 100 g, about 265 kcal per 245 g cup (our calculation).
Is sheep milk higher in fat than cow milk?
Yes. USDA lists 7.0 g fat per 100 g for sheep milk versus 3.2 g for whole cow milk.
Is pasteurization safe for the nutrition of milk?
The FDA says pasteurization has minimal impact on milk nutritional quality.
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