Ultra-filtered milk’s claim-to-fame is that it’s like regular milk, but with improvements in storage, sugar content, protein, and several other nutritional qualities! Now, that sounds like a pretty good deal – but should you choose this over buttermilk?
Buttermilk is one of the most popular types of milk in the baking world, boasting a unique flavor with a thick and creamy texture that adds a special zing to the many dishes that call for it!
We’ll place these two powerhouses right beside one another, examining all their differences and similarities to ultimately see which one is better!
Let’s dive right in!
Comparing ultra-filtered milk vs buttermilk
Ultra-filtered milk is animal-based, just like buttermilk. In fact, they have more similarities in that they both have milk as an allergen and are unsuitable for vegan diets!
Now, buttermilk isn’t suitable for keto and paleo diets either, but ultra-filtered milk might work for those – it doesn’t necessarily fit the “traditional” requirements, but its nutritional profile may line up with them – plus, it’s lactose free!
| Ultra-filtered milk | Buttermilk (lowfat/1%) | |
| Type | Animal-based | Animal-based |
| Allergens | Milk | Milk |
| Vegan? | No | No |
| Paleo? | Varies | No |
| Keto? | Varies | No |
Differences between ultra-filtered milk and buttermilk
The main difference between ultra-filtered milk and buttermilk is how they are processed.
Both come from regular milk, with ultra-filtered milk just having gone through a filtering process that takes out any extra water, lactose, and natural sugar. This turns it a touch thicker, and also concentrates the milk’s solids to boost the protein content.
It tastes and feels similar to regular cow’s milk but is a bit less sweet since some sugar was taken out.
Buttermilk also comes from regular milk, but has a probiotic culture added to it which ferments it. This gives it a tangy and slightly sour flavor profile, along with a thick and creamy texture. Buttermilk is most often used in baking because its unique flavor adds a special dimension to many recipes, and it’s great for adding moisture!
How to use ultra-filtered milk vs buttermilk
Ultra-filtered milk and buttermilk can both be used in many unique ways:
Ultra-filtered milk:
- Use as a lactose-free alternative to regular milk.
- Make protein shakes and smoothies with its higher protein content.
- Add it to your coffee or tea.
- Splash over your cereal.
- Mix it into your oatmeal.
- Make yogurt, creamy soups, and sauces!
Buttermilk:
- Drink it by itself like kefir.
- Use it for marinades and brines.
- Tenderize meat with it.
- Add its tangy flavor and creamy texture to recipes.
- Moisten different bakes like pancakes, cookies, and cakes.
- Use it to make thick and creamy dressings and dips.
Can you substitute ultra-filtered milk for buttermilk?
Generally speaking, yes you can.
However, ultra-filtered milk and buttermilk have differences in flavor and texture that could affect things differently, especially bakes. I recommend using buttermilk in recipes that call for it due to its extra thickness and flavor profile, but if you prefer the taste of ultra-filtered milk or the tanginess of buttermilk in other things, use whichever you want!
Nutrition: Ultra-filtered milk vs buttermilk
Both milks are the same in terms of calories, with ultra-filtered milk having slightly more fat than buttermilk. However, buttermilk is quite a bit higher in carbs, and also has almost twice as much sugar!
Their protein contents are both great, with 13 grams per serving for ultra-filtered milk and 10 grams per serving for buttermilk. Ultra-filtered milk has a bit more calcium and vitamin D than buttermilk.
Ultra-filtered milk has the enzyme lactase added to it, which makes it lactose-free. Buttermilk, on the other hand, contains some great probiotics!
| Per 1 cup (237 ml/8 oz.) | Ultra-filtered milk (Fairlife) – 2% | Buttermilk (lowfat/1%) |
| Calories | 120 | 120 |
| Total fat (saturated) | 4.5 g (3 g) | 2.5 g (2 g) |
| Total carbs | 6 g | 15 g |
| Total sugars (incl. added) | 6 g (0 g) | 11 g (0 g) |
| Protein | 13 g | 10 g |
| Calcium | 30% DV | 25% DV |
| Vit D | 25% DV | 10% DV |
How to store ultra-filtered milk and buttermilk
Ultra-filtered milk has an awesome shelf-life, being able to be stored for up to 45 days when unopened. Once you open it up, finish it within 14 days! This great shelf-life is thanks to the extra high temperature it goes through in its pasteurization process (although it’s not as high as UHT milk).
Buttermilk should be stored in the fridge, lasting about 7 days when unopened. Try to finish it within 5 days after opening for the best freshness, and make sure to give it the ol’ sniff and taste test when brands claim it’ll last up to 14 days after opening!
Ultra-filtered milk vs buttermilk: The ultimate verdict
So, which processed version of regular milk do you go with?
They each have some great benefits, and also sport some drawbacks. A lot of it comes down to preference, but you can’t go wrong with either.
That being said, buttermilk is great in recipes that call for it, but ultra-filtered milk is the better choice for its amazing shelf-life, classic taste that’s similar to regular milk, and awesome nutritional profile!
FAQs
Depending on your preferences, both of these can be great. Ultra-filtered milk gives you more of a regular cow’s milk vibe, while buttermilk offers a tanginess that’s great for many bakes.
You’ll find health benefits and drawbacks in many different types of milk, so check them out to find one that fits your needs – or talk to a health professional!
Buttermilk is fermented and provides a tangy, slightly sour taste and has a thicker texture. It also has less fat and slightly more protein, and is better used for adding moisture to bakes. a flavor without the extra sugar. Check the labels to be sure you’re getting what you want!
It sure is! Ultra-filtered milk is just regular cow’s milk that goes through a filtering process.
Leave a Comment