Llama Milk vs Milk: The Ultimate Verdict

While llama milk isn’t widely found on supermarket shelves, it’s enjoyed in Andean countries in South America. These communities might be onto something, embracing the llama not only for their milk but also for wool and meat. With the milk’s slightly sweet, creamy nature, it’s a lot denser than cow’s milk and can offer a little something special in the kitchen. So, how else does it compare? Let’s find out.

Comparing llama milk vs milk

	Llama milk	Cow milk (including whole, 2%, skim, etc.)
Type	Animal-based	Animal-based
Allergens	None	Milk
Vegan?	No	No
Paleo?	No	No
Keto?	No	No

? = reliable information not available

Neither llama milk nor cow milk are vegan, paleo-friendly, or keto-friendly, but llama milk is suitable for those with cow milk allergies!

Differences between llama milk and milk

At the heart of their differences, llama milk and cow milk differ most in their rarity. While you’ll be able to find cow milk as easily as at your local corner shop, it’ll be almost impossible to find llama milk outside of remote places in South America. Llamas also are difficult to milk and have a small capacity, making their milk even rarer!

Types of cow’s milk

Llama milk only comes in one variety (about 4.7% fat), so let’s look at the array of cow’s milk available:

Whole milk: Provides the full richness of cow’s milk with all its natural fat, typically 3.25%.

2% milk (reduced-fat): Less fat for a lighter option with 2% fat.

1% milk (low-fat): A leaner choice with 1% fat.

Skim milk (non-fat): Virtually fat-free for the nutritional benefit of milk in a thinner consistency.

Lactose-free milk: Milk with added lactase to help break down lactose.

Raw cow milk (whole): Untreated and unpasteurized milk that preserves the natural flavors but comes with potential risks.

Flavored milk: Chocolate, banana, strawberry, vanilla, you name it – often contains added sugars or flavorings.

How to use llama milk vs milk

Llama milk:

• Blend into smoothies.
• Use to make creamy and tangy yogurt.
• Froth and brew coffee or tea.
• Incorporate into bakes.
• Add to creamy, savory soups.
• Create indulgent puddings and custards.

Regular milk:

• Drink chilled on its own.
• Enhance the richness of pasta sauces and soups.
• Pour over cereal.
• Froth for classic lattes.
• Make homemade ice cream
• Use for baking moist goodies.

Can you substitute llama milk for milk?

When it comes to pouring over cereal or incorporating it into baked goods, for example, llama milk can be substituted for cow milk. Keep in mind that depending on the llama the milk comes from, the flavor may differ slightly. Some are sweeter, some are less flavorful, and others prove to be more unique. But in recipes where cow milk’s neutral taste is important, it’s best to stick to cow milk.

Nutrition: Llama milk vs milk

Llama milk is also reported to be quite similar in nutrition to cow milk but with slightly higher components. It’s also high in lactose, at 5.93% compared to cow milk’s 4.7%, which makes it unsuitable for those who are lactose-intolerant. It can also compete with cow milk on the vitamin and mineral front, being rich in folic acid, zinc, calcium, and vitamins A, B6, and B12.

Cow milk is a popular source of calcium and protein, as well as calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and vitamin A, but each type has different nutritional values. As you go down in fat content, the milk will have less calories but slightly more total carbs. And as a bonus, skim milk is also one of the best natural sources of calcium and vitamin D.

Per 1 cup (237 ml/8 oz.)	Calories	Total fat (sat. fat)	Total carbs	Total sugars (incl. added)	Protein	Calcium	Vit D
Llama milk	?	?	?	?	?	?	?
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 (0 g)	8 g	25% DV	10% DV
Skim milk (non-fat milk)	90	0 g	13 g	12 g (0 g)	8 g	30% DV	25% DV

? = reliable information not available

How to store llama milk and milk

Being both mammal milks, llama milk and cow milk should be stored in the fridge and will likely last a similar length of time. When unopened, cow’s milk lasts 4 – 7 days past the expiration date. But once opened, its shelf life will depend on the type of milk. Whole milk lasts around 5 – 7 days, reduced-fat and skim last 7 days, and lactose-free milk lasts 7 – 10 days.

Llama milk vs milk: What’s the verdict?

With such a great nutritional profile and more, there are so many reasons why the UN is pushing milk and dairy products from these niche animals. For example, it’s not only suitable for those allergic to cow milk but also helps out the environment! But what’s the ultimate verdict on these two types of milk? 

Cow’s milk has clearly stood the test of time, with its versatility, the variety out there, and essential nutrients. And while llama milk isn’t popular, it is certainly worth a try – could it eventually replace cow milk in your fridge? We’ll have to see!

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