According to 2019 data from the USDA, Americans consume approximately half a cup of dairy milk daily. As milk remains a popular breakfast item, it's worth considering whether organic milk is a worthwhile investment compared to conventional milk. In this article, we will finally put an end to the debate and determine whether organic milk is superior to regular milk, potentially saving you some money in the process.
Organic vs Regular Milk: Understanding the Differences
Organic milk is produced by cows that are raised under specific criteria, according to the USDA. In order to produce organic milk, cows must be organic and can't be given growth hormones or antibiotics, except for when the animal is sick. Additionally, all feed given to the cows must be 100 percent organic, and they must have access to graze on pasture for at least 120 days a year. While there are exceptions for treating sick cows with antibiotics or other drugs, these cows are no longer considered organic and must be sold off to a non-organic facility.
What is the Impact of Antibiotics in Conventional Milk?
At the grocery store, you can find both organic and regular milk, but when it comes to antibiotics and pesticide levels, both types are safe to drink. According to Mississippi State University Extension, the USDA doesn't allow milk that tests positive for antibiotic residue to be sold in stores, meaning that both organic and conventional milk are completely antibiotic-free. The USDA Pesticide Data Program also evaluates both types of milk and ensures that pesticide residues in all dairy milk are well below established limits. So, regardless of your milk choice, you can trust that it's safe to consume.
Comparing the Nutritional Differences Between Organic and Regular Milk
Many people believe that organic milk is more nutritious than regular milk. However, studies suggest that this may not be entirely true.
A 2016 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that organic milk contained more vitamin E, iron, and healthy polyunsaturated fats such as omega-3s, but was lower in iodine and selenium. However, milk is not a significant source of vitamin E or iron, so it is better to obtain these nutrients from other sources such as almonds, sunflower seeds, beans, and salmon.
While organic milk is higher in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, this is only relevant when drinking whole milk. Skim, low-fat, or reduced-fat milk has had the fats removed during manufacturing, and thus only whole milk retains the fatty acid profile.
However, this does not mean that organic whole milk is more nutritious than skim milk. A 2017 study published in the journal Beverages concluded that there are no significant health benefits from drinking organic milk over conventional milk.
Both organic and conventional milk are fortified with vitamin D, as required by the FDA, making them good sources of this essential nutrient. This may not be the case with non-dairy milk alternatives.
Saving Money: The Benefits of Buying Conventional Milk
If you're looking to save money on your grocery bill, consider skipping the organic milk. According to the USDA's February 2023 report, a gallon of conventional whole milk costs an average of $4.38, while a half gallon of organic whole milk costs $4.81. That's more than twice as much for the organic option.
The higher price tag of organic milk is due to the higher costs associated with raising organic dairy cows, such as animal feed prices and organic certification costs. Additionally, organically raised cows produce about 15 percent less milk than conventionally raised cows because organic producers can't use the same fertilizers to boost the cows' feed.
Therefore, if you're looking to save some money on your grocery bill, buying conventional milk may be the better option for you.
Organic vs. Regular Milk: What You Need to Know
When it comes to nutritional value, there is little difference between organic and conventional milk. Both organic and non-organic milk are free of antibiotics, and the USDA regulates the levels of pesticide residues in milk to ensure they are well below established limits.
If you and your family regularly consume milk, opting for conventional milk could save you money on your grocery bill.