ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK scores 60/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **minimal processing** and contribution of Vitamin A.
This ORGANIC VALLEY milk receives a FoodScore of 60/100, indicating a Good nutritional choice.
It is a NOVA class 2 food, signifying it is minimally processed.
A serving provides 125mg of calcium (10% DV) and 23% DV of Vitamin A.
Compared to generic lowfat milk, this product offers a similar nutritional profile.
Consider this milk as a source of dairy in a balanced dietary pattern.
Scores +27 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
3.33g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
52.08mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 60
ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK achieves a FoodScore of 60/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is positively influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 2 food, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient rather than an ultra-processed item, which contributed 8 bonus points. The product also received 2 bonus points for its micronutrient content, specifically due to the presence of Vitamin A Palmitate, which boosts its Vitamin A contribution to 23% DV per 100g. With 0g of added sugar and 1.04g of total fat per 100g, including 0.62g of saturated fat, it aligns with recommendations for lower fat dairy options. The protein content is 3.33g per 100g. Compared to a generic lowfat milk, this ORGANIC VALLEY product offers a comparable nutritional profile, providing essential dairy nutrients without significant penalties for undesirable components like high added sugar or sodium. The ingredient list is straightforward, consisting of organic lowfat milk and added vitamins.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in organic valley, organic 1% milkfat lowfat milk actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health
This lowfat milk contributes to bone health primarily through its calcium content, providing 125mg (10% DV) per 100g. Calcium is an essential mineral crucial for the formation and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Regular intake of dairy products like ORGANIC VALLEY milk can help meet daily calcium requirements, which is important across all life stages to support skeletal integrity and reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life. The presence of Vitamin D3, while not quantified with a %DV on the label, typically aids in calcium absorption.
Source of Vitamin A
ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK is a good source of Vitamin A, supplying 23% DV per 100g, primarily due to the addition of Vitamin A Palmitate. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin vital for several bodily functions, including maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. Including this milk in your diet can help contribute to your daily Vitamin A needs, especially for those looking to enhance their intake of this important micronutrient through fortified dairy.
Provides Essential Protein
This lowfat milk offers 3.33g of protein per 100g, contributing to your daily protein intake. Protein is a macronutrient essential for muscle repair, growth, and the production of enzymes and hormones. Including dairy products like this ORGANIC VALLEY milk can help you feel satiated and support overall bodily functions. It serves as a convenient and accessible source of high-quality protein, which is beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and supporting metabolic health.
ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK scores 60/100 (Good), primarily driven by its minimal processing and contribution of Vitamin A.
How to eat it
Lowfat milk is a versatile dairy product commonly consumed as a beverage, in cereals, or as an ingredient in cooking and baking. A typical serving size is 8 fluid ounces (approximately 240ml), which provides a good portion of daily dairy recommendations. It's a staple in many US households for its nutritional value and culinary flexibility.
Pair with whole-grain cereal or oatmeal for a balanced breakfast that combines protein, calcium, and fiber.
Use this milk as a base for smoothies with fruits and vegetables to create a nutrient-dense snack or meal replacement.
Incorporate into savory dishes like creamy soups, sauces, or casseroles to add richness and a source of calcium and protein.
Consider using it in coffee or tea as a lower-fat alternative to whole milk, helping to manage saturated fat intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk, which is a common allergen. Individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy should avoid this product. The ingredient list is minimal, with no artificial colors, flavors, or problematic preservatives. The addition of Vitamin A Palmitate and Vitamin D3 is standard for fortified milk products and generally not a concern. There are no ingredients that typically pose issues for specific populations like those with IBS or diabetes, given its low fat and no added sugar profile. As with any food, moderation is key, but there are no specific cautions beyond the milk allergen for the general population.
Is ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK healthy?
With a FoodScore of 60/100, this ORGANIC VALLEY milk is considered a 'Good' choice. It provides essential nutrients like calcium and Vitamin A, and contains no added sugar. Its minimal processing (NOVA class 2) also contributes positively to its overall nutritional assessment, making it a suitable option for a balanced diet.
How does ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK compare to other brands?
Compared to other lowfat milk brands like Horizon Organic 1% Lowfat Milk, ORGANIC VALLEY offers a very similar nutritional profile in terms of macros and micronutrients. Both are typically fortified with vitamins A and D and contain no added sugars. The primary differences often lie in sourcing practices and specific certifications, rather than significant nutritional variations.
What is Vitamin A Palmitate, and why is it in this milk?
Vitamin A Palmitate is a synthetic form of Vitamin A added to milk to increase its nutritional value. Milk naturally contains some Vitamin A, but processing (like fat removal in lowfat milk) can reduce its content. Fortification ensures that consumers receive a consistent and meaningful amount of this essential vitamin, which supports vision and immune function.
What is a recommended daily intake for this milk?
The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend 3 servings of dairy per day for adults. An 8-ounce serving of ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK contributes to this recommendation. The optimal daily intake depends on individual dietary needs and overall nutrient consumption, but incorporating it as part of a varied diet is beneficial.
Can this milk be used for cooking and baking?
Yes, ORGANIC VALLEY, ORGANIC 1% MILKFAT LOWFAT MILK is highly versatile for cooking and baking. Its lower fat content makes it suitable for recipes where you want to reduce richness without sacrificing moisture or flavor. It can be used interchangeably with whole milk in most recipes, though it may result in a slightly lighter texture.