Ultra-filtered milk has been making quite the buzz! There are a lot of promises associated with it, with claims that it’s better than regular milk in things like protein, sugar, and other nutritional areas! But, how good of a milk is it really?
We’ll check it out in closer detail, highlighting all the facts you need to know about! However, we’ll also compare it to the popular dairy-alternative: coconut milk!
Coconut milk is a plant-based milk that’s beloved by many for its unique taste and dietary versatility, giving it a place in many households!
Now, the question is which one of these is better – so let’s take a closer look!
Comparing ultra-filtered milk vs coconut milk
Ultra-filtered milk is unsuitable for anyone that is allergic to milk, while coconut milk has tree nuts as an allergen – many people that have a tree nut allergy can still eat coconut products with no issues, so talk to a physician!
Coconut milk is great for vegan, paleo, and keto diets, while ultra-filtered milk could technically fit into keto and paleo diets – it doesn’t fit in a “traditional” sense, but its nutritional profile can line up with those. Ultra-filtered milk is also lactose-free.
| Ultra-filtered milk | Coconut milk | |
| Type | Animal-based | Plant-based (nut milk) |
| Allergens | Milk | Tree nuts* |
| Vegan? | No | Yes |
| Paleo? | Varies | Yes |
| Keto? | Varies | Yes |
*Most people with tree nut allergies can consume coconut products, so talk to your physician!
Differences between ultra-filtered milk and coconut milk
The main difference between ultra-filtered milk and coconut milk is what they’re made of.
Ultra-filtered milk is basically regular milk that goes through a filtering process. This process removes extra water, lactose, and the sugar that’s naturally found in milk, on top of concentrating the milk’s solids. This basically means that it has a boosted protein content – and remember, ultra-filtered milk is lactose-free thanks to the added lactase enzymes!
You can expect ultra-filtered milk to taste and feel like regular milk, but a little less sweet due to the sugar that’s been cut out.
Coconut milk, on the other hand, is made from coconuts! It boasts a coconut flavor with nutty undertones, and comes in two different versions: carton coconut milk and canned coconut milk.
Carton coconut milk is the stuff you buy for drinking, while canned coconut milk is solid at room temperature and mainly used for baking and cooking different recipes!
Carton coconut milk is made by blending thicker coconut milk or coconut cream with water, while canned coconut milk is made by heating high-fat coconut pulp in hot water, and then extracting the liquid from the solid pulp.
You’ll enjoy a thin but creamy texture with coconut milk!
How to use ultra-filtered milk vs coconut milk
Try using your ultra-filtered milk and coconut milk in:
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!
Coconut milk:
- Enjoy it as a dairy-free beverage.
- Make coconut creamer with it.
- Add it to your smoothies.
- Splash it over your cereal or into your oatmeal.
- Bake and cook with it for a tropical addition.
- Make coconut yogurt.
Can you substitute ultra-filtered milk for coconut milk?
In most cases, you can use whichever of these that you prefer! Ultra-filtered milk is thicker than coconut milk, and they have very different flavors from one another – that’s something to keep in mind as you can use them in many of the same things with different effects.
Also, remember their different textures, as that can have an impact in most cases.
Nutrition: Ultra-filtered milk vs coconut milk
Ultra-filtered milk is relatively much higher in calories than coconut milk, but they’re both extremely similar in fat contents. Ultra-filtered milk has 6 grams of carbs versus coconut milk’s 2 grams per serving – that’s 3 times of a lower carb content!
Coconut milk almost has no sugar, while ultra-filtered milk has 6 grams per serving. Ultra-filtered milk has an awesome protein content, with 13 grams per serving – coconut milk has one of the worst protein contents, with none at all. They’re both really good sources of calcium and vitamin D!
| Per 1 cup (237 ml/8 oz.) | Ultra-filtered milk (Fairlife) – 2% | Coconut milk |
| Calories | 120 | 40 |
| Total fat (saturated) | 4.5 g (3 g) | 4 g (3.5 g) |
| Total carbs | 6 g | 2 g |
| Total sugars (incl. added) | 6 g (0 g) | <1 g (0 g) |
| Protein | 13 g | 0 g |
| Calcium | 30% DV | 45% DV |
| Vit D | 25% DV | 20% DV |
How to store ultra-filtered milk and coconut milk
Ultra-filtered milk is pasteurized at a higher temperature than normal (but not as high as UHT milk), which means that it has a great shelf-life! You can keep it in the fridge for up to 45 days unopened, but consume it within 14 days for the best freshness!
Canned coconut milk is best stored in an airtight container and placed in the fridge when opened. It’ll last about 7 days there, while carton coconut milk should be stored in the fridge immediately and be consumed within 5-7 days after opening.
Keep in mind, full-fat coconut milk lasts longer than low-fat types, so adjust accordingly! You can freeze your coconut milk too, which keeps it fresh for up to a month!
Ultra-filtered milk vs coconut milk: Which is better?
This is an interesting match-up, because it’s hard to decisively choose a plant-based or animal-based milk…
They both have different advantages and disadvantages over one another, so a lot of it comes down to preference!
However, looking at all factors, ultra-filtered milk may be the better choice for its high protein content, classic and more versatile flavor, and delicious texture!
FAQs
That depends on your preferences and needs, as ultra-filtered milk has a better protein content and more versatile flavor, while coconut milk has a great dietary versatility and more distinct flavor.
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!
Coconut milk can be a poor choice if you’re allergic to coconuts, or don’t like its distinct flavor.
Yes, it is! Ultra-filtered milk is just regular cow’s milk that goes through a filtering process.
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