Donkey Milk vs Milk: Which is Better?

Donkey milk is one of the closest kinds of milk to human (breast) milk, which gives it some unique benefits. But is it better than the old favorite, cow’s milk?

Let’s see which one comes out on top!

Comparing donkey milk vs milk

	Donkey milk	Cow milk (including whole, 2%, skim, etc.)
Type	Animal-based	Animal-based
Common allergens	Milk*	Milk
Vegan?	No	No
Paleo?	Unknown	No
Keto?	Unknown	No

*Contains milk protein which may or may not be tolerated by people with a cow’s milk allergy (the most common milk allergy)

Donkey milk and regular cow milk are both types of animal milk, so they are NOT vegan. Donkey milk may or may not be paleo-friendly (unknown), but cow milk is not consumed on a strict paleo diet.

Donkey milk is even higher in lactose (aka carbs) than cow’s milk, so these are two of the worst milks for keto! Donkey milk is also not necessarily suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

Differences between donkey milk and milk

The main difference between donkey milk and cow milk is that donkey milk comes from female donkeys and is closer in composition to human milk, with less fat, protein, and more lactose. Cow milk originates from female cows, with higher fat and protein content but lower lactose levels.

Donkey milk is generally considered to be hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause allergies or sensitivities compared to cow milk. The proteins in milk like casein and whey are more likely to cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some people.

But, let’s be real— donkey milk is not as readily available as cow’s milk in many regions. Check local specialty stores, health food stores, or online sources to find donkey milk. If you’re on the hunt, you might stumble upon dehydrated donkey milk powder. You can grab a tin, reconstitute it in water, and voila – donkey milk at your fingertips!

Types of cow’s milk

Not all cow’s milk is created equal. There’s a whole spectrum of options:

Whole milk: With a whopping 3.5% milk fat, this full-bodied milk is for those who want the real deal.

2% milk (reduced-fat): If you’re looking for a lighter option, 2% milk contains – you guessed it – 2% milk fat.

1% milk (low-fat): Cutting even more fat, this milk contains 1% milk fat, catering to the health-conscious.

Skim milk (non-fat): For those who want the milk without the fat, skim milk proudly boasts 0% milk fat.

Lactose-free milk: Perfect for the lactose-intolerant crowd, this milk keeps the lactose at bay.

Raw cow milk (whole): It’s like whole milk but au naturel. Raw cow milk skips pasteurization for a more unfiltered experience.

Flavored milk: Jazzing things up, flavored milk like chocolate milk brings a touch of sweetness to the table, making it perfect for kids and the young at heart.

How to use donkey milk vs milk

Here are the different ways people use donkey milk and regular milk:

Donkey milk:

• Skincare products
• Dietary supplement
• Soap and cosmetics
• Traditional medicine
• Cheese production
• Donkey milk yogurt

Cow milk:

• Drinking
• Cooking and baking
• Cheese making
• Yogurt production
• Butter and cream
• Ice cream
• Coffee and tea

Can you substitute donkey milk for milk?

Donkey milk can be used as a substitute for cow’s milk in recipes due to its similar consistency. It has a sweeter, milder taste and contains different nutrients. Use a 1:1 ratio in cooking, baking, and beverages, but be aware of potential flavor changes and nutritional variations.

Donkey milk might suit those with cow’s milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Always consider individual dietary needs and preferences when making substitutions.

Nutrition: Donkey milk vs milk

Donkey milk is lower in fat and cholesterol compared to cow milk, sheep milk, and goat milk, making it one of the leanest milk choices, with less than one gram of fat per serving! On the other hand, cow’s milk provides a range of options – from whole to skim – allowing you to pick your fat level.

While donkey milk is lower in fat and cholesterol compared to cow milk, it’s also lower in protein and much higher in carbs and sugar.

Both are naturally high in calcium, but cow milk is often fortified with added vitamin D.

Per cup (237 ml/8 oz.)	Calories	Total fat (sat. fat)	Total carbs	Total sugars (incl. added)	Protein	Calcium	Vit D
Donkey milk	100	0.25 g (0 g)	18.5 g	18.5 g (0 g)	4.6 g	18% DV	0% DV
Whole milk	160	8 g (4.5 g)	11 g	10 g (0 g)	8 g	25% DV	10% DV
2% milk	130	5 g (3 g)	12 g	12 g (0 g)	8 g	25% DV	10% DV
1% milk	110	2.5 g (1.4 g)	13 g	12 g (0g)	8 g	25% DV	10% DV
Skim milk (nonfat milk)	90	0 g	13 g	12 g (0 g)	8 g	30% DV	25% DV

How to store donkey milk and milk

For donkey milk, which is quite special, pop it in the fridge at around 36°F to 40°F (2°C to 4°C). It’s best to use it within 3 to 4 days, so don’t forget to seal it up tight in a container to keep it tasting good.

Now, for regular cow’s milk, also keep it in the fridge at the same temperature range. You’ve got about 5 to 7 days to enjoy it at its best.

Donkey milk vs milk: Which is better

For those with a cow milk-specific allergy or seeking a lower-fat option, donkey milk is a fantastic alternative. However, I still think cow milk is better overall. It’s a versatile staple with more protein, various fat levels, and countless uses. Plus, it’s way more available than donkey milk.

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