It’s easy to overlook the gallon of milk in your fridge as just another everyday staple. For many, milk might seem ordinary, but this creamy, refreshing beverage is a nutritional powerhouse. A single cup of cow’s milk delivers all three macronutrients: high-quality protein, healthy fats, and natural carbohydrates from lactose. It’s also packed with calcium and vitamin D, supporting strong bones and a resilient immune system.
No matter which type you choose, milk offers significant health benefits. Here’s a surprising bonus: milk in the U.S. is also a win for local communities. According to U.S. Dairy, 97% of American dairy farms are family-owned and operated. Plus, with regional dairy councils ensuring most milk doesn’t travel far, it’s often more local than many other fresh foods, like out-of-season produce.
While dairy milk is often touted as a healthful choice, some brands go above and beyond with environmentally friendly farming practices and enhanced nutrition. If you're looking to make more thoughtful choices, we’ve rounded up the nine best dairy milk brands available today. After exploring these options, don’t miss The 10 Healthiest Dairy Foods for Weight Loss for more inspiration.
How We Chose the Healthiest Dairy Milk Brands:
- Animals' Diet: Grass-fed cows and goats produce milk rich in omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), making grass-fed options a standout for nutritional quality.
- Environmental Impact: Organic milks, while not always more nutrient-dense, tend to be more sustainable and eco-friendly.
- Ethical Animal Treatment: We prioritized brands that share transparent information about the care and well-being of their animals.
The Best Milk Brands to Buy:
- Maple Hill Organic Whole Milk
- Organic Valley Whole Grassmilk
- A2 Grassfed 2% Milk
- Horizon Organic Grassfed Whole Milk
- Stonyfield 2% Organic Milk
- Horizon Organic Lactose Free Whole Milk
- Organic Valley Family First DHA Omega-3 Whole Milk
- Meyenberg Whole Goat Milk
- Parmalat Whole Milk
Maple Hill Organic Whole Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 9 g (Saturated Fat: 4.5 g)
- Sodium: 105 mg
- Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 12 g)
- Protein: 8 g
Maple Hill stands out as a top contender for the healthiest milk on the market. Grass-fed, organic, and fully transparent about its farming practices, this brand prioritizes humane, ethical, and traceable dairy production. While it comes with a premium price tag, its commitment to quality and sustainability makes it a worthwhile investment for many health-conscious consumers.
Organic Valley Whole Grassmilk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 11 g)
- Protein: 8 g
Organic Valley’s "Grassmilk" is a standout option for those seeking grass-fed organic milk. This full-fat dairy product comes from cows fed exclusively on 100% organic grass and dried forage, delivering higher levels of healthy fats. A unique perk? The milk’s flavor subtly shifts with the seasons, reflecting the pastures the cows grazed—bringing a little taste of nature to your glass.
A2 Grassfed 2% Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5 g (Saturated Fat: 3 g)
- Sodium: 115 mg
- Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 12 g)
- Protein: 8 g
A2 Milk offers a solution for those who experience discomfort when drinking regular milk. Traditional cow’s milk contains both A1 and A2 proteins, but A2’s grass-fed milk is unique, featuring only A2 proteins. Some studies suggest that this may ease digestion for those with milk intolerance. Plus, the brand doubles down on quality by ensuring their milk is entirely grass-fed.
Horizon Organic Grassfed Whole Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 9 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Carbs: 13 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 12 g)
- Protein: 8 g
When you choose Horizon Organic Grassfed Whole Milk, you're supporting a brand committed to the well-being of its dairy cows. These cows are raised without antibiotics or growth hormones and graze exclusively on organic pastures. Plus, they enjoy at least 150 days a year of sunshine and fresh air, making this milk a feel-good choice for both your body and your conscience.
Stonyfield 2% Organic Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 5 g (Saturated Fat: 3 g)
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 11 g)
- Protein: 8 g
Stonyfield Organic 2% Reduced Fat Milk is an excellent choice for those seeking a lower-fat option without sacrificing quality. Beyond great taste, Stonyfield stands out for its dedication to sustainability, with an ambitious goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030. Their website provides a transparent look at their efforts in energy use, packaging, logistics, and waste management—making it a choice you can feel good about for both health and the planet.
Horizon Organic Lactose Free Whole Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 8 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
- Sodium: 135 mg
- Carbs: 13 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 12 g)
- Protein: 8 g
Horizon Organic Lactose-Free Whole Milk offers a creamy, real dairy experience for those with lactose intolerance. It delivers the same protein and calcium as regular milk, minus the lactose that can cause digestive issues. As a whole-fat dairy product, it may also provide added benefits, such as reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Organic Valley Family First DHA Omega-3 Whole Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 11 g)
- Protein: 8 g
Organic Valley Family First DHA Omega-3 Whole Milk takes healthy fats to the next level with added omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are linked to benefits for brain and heart health, making this organic milk a smart choice for both kids and adults. Whether for a growing mind or a healthy heart, this milk offers an extra nutritional edge.
Meyenberg Whole Goat Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 7 g (Saturated Fat: 4 g)
- Sodium: 115 mg
- Carbs: 11 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 11 g)
- Protein: 8 g
Not all milk comes from cows—goat milk is a great alternative with a similar nutrition profile but easier digestibility for some people. Meyenberg’s Whole Goat Milk is Certified Humane, fortified with vitamin D, and has slightly less fat than cow’s milk. If you’re looking to try something new, its tangy flavor and impressive nutrient content make it worth a pour.
Parmalat Whole Milk
Nutrition (Per 1 Cup):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Carbs: 12 g (Fiber: 0 g, Sugar: 12 g)
- Protein: 8 g
For a convenient, shelf-stable milk option, Parmalat Whole Milk is a standout. Pasteurized at ultra-high temperatures, it doesn’t require refrigeration until opened, making it perfect for stocking your pantry. Plus, its thick, creamy texture ensures a satisfying, real dairy experience anytime you need it.