Where’s My Milk From?
First, Find the Code
No need to be a detective—locating your code is simple when you know what to look for. Follow these tips:
1. Look Near the Top
Codes are typically printed near the top of the container or on the lid. Occasionally, they can be found directly on the label.
2. Starts with Two Numbers
The code always begins with two digits (ranging from 01 to 56). You’ll never see letters at the start.
3. Ends with 1 to 5 Digits
The second part of the code will contain one to five digits or letters, and sometimes a dash may be included.
4. No Colons
If you see a colon in the code, it’s not the one you’re looking for—keep searching!
Visit WhereIsMyMilkFrom.com for more information or to look up your code.
Understanding Fat and Lactose Content Labels
Dairy products often carry a range of marketing claims that can be confusing to interpret. Fat content labels such as “fat-free,” “low-fat,” and “reduced-fat” indicate specific levels of fat, with fat-free containing less than 0.5 grams per serving and low-fat limited to 3 grams or less. Similarly, “lactose-free” means the product contains no detectable lactose, while “lactose-reduced” typically has at least 25% less lactose than standard dairy products.
Animal Feed and Production Practices
Claims like “grass-fed” or “organic” refer to how the animals were raised and what they were fed. Grass-fed dairy comes from cows that consumed grass and forage throughout their lives, while USDA Organic products meet strict standards regarding feed, animal welfare, and the absence of synthetic hormones, GMOs, and pesticides. Although all milk on the market is tested to be antibiotic-free, some products highlight that cows were never treated with antibiotics at any point.
Nutrient, Structure, and Health Claims
You’ll also see nutrient content claims such as “high in calcium” or “excellent source of vitamin D,” along with structure/function claims like “calcium builds strong bones.” Only health claims that link food to disease prevention—like lowering the risk of osteoporosis—require FDA approval. Other labels like “cage-free” or “responsibly produced” may appear but are not always backed by consistent standards.
Making Informed Dairy Choices
It’s important to note that not all claims are regulated or independently verified. Absence of a specific label doesn’t necessarily reflect lower quality. For consumers seeking reassurance, look for third-party certifications like USDA Organic or AGA (American Grassfed Approved), and take time to understand how various label types differ in meaning and credibility.
