What are the differences between goat milk and cow milk?
By USDA data, fluid goat milk has slightly more fat and calories than whole cow milk: 69 versus 61 kcal per 100 g, and 4.14 versus 3.25 g fat. Goat milk is also higher in calcium and protein. We found no official source that says goat milk is easier to digest or better for you overall.
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How do goat milk and cow milk compare?
These values are per 100 g from USDA FoodData Central (SR Legacy): fluid goat milk with added vitamin D versus whole cow milk (3.25% milkfat) with added vitamin D.
| Per 100 g | Goat milk | Whole cow milk |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 69 kcal | 61 kcal |
| Fat | 4.14 g | 3.25 g |
| Saturated fat | 2.67 g | 1.87 g |
| Protein | 3.56 g | 3.15 g |
| Carbohydrate | 4.45 g | 4.80 g |
| Calcium | 134 mg | 113 mg |
| Potassium | 204 mg | 132 mg |
| Vitamin B-12 | 0.07 mcg | 0.45 mcg |
How much is one cup?
USDA lists one cup of either milk as 244 g. That gives about 168 kcal for goat milk and 149 kcal for whole cow milk (our calculation).
Is goat milk more nutritious than cow milk?
It is higher in calcium and potassium and lower in vitamin B-12 in these USDA entries. Neither is better overall: the numbers differ by nutrient, and brands vary. Goat milk has a little less carbohydrate, which for milk is mostly lactose, but USDA does not list lactose in these entries, so we cannot say how much less.
Is goat milk easier to digest?
We found no official source we could open that states this, so we make no claim. If you react to milk, ask a doctor or dietitian before switching.
Can babies drink goat milk or cow milk?
The NHS says cows’ milk should not be given as a main drink to babies until they are 12 months old, although it can be used in cooking or mixed with food from around 6 months. It says goats’ and sheep’s milk are not suitable as a main drink for babies under 1 year old. For babies over 1 year, the NHS says goats’ and sheep’s milk can be given as a main drink as long as they are pasteurised.
So for babies the advice is the same for both milks: wait until 12 months. Ask a health visitor, doctor or pharmacist about infant feeding or a milk allergy.
People also ask
Is goat milk more nutritious than cow milk?
It has more calcium, potassium and protein per 100 g in USDA data, but less vitamin B-12 and more calories and saturated fat.
What is the difference between goat milk and cow milk calories?
USDA lists goat milk at 69 kcal per 100 g and whole cow milk at 61 kcal per 100 g.
Does goat milk have less lactose?
USDA does not list lactose for these entries, so we cannot confirm it. Ask a doctor if you are lactose intolerant.
Can a baby under 1 year drink goat milk?
The NHS says goats' milk is not suitable as a main drink for babies under 1 year old. After 1 year it can be given as a main drink if it is pasteurised.
Sources
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