Milk contains a variety of essential nutrients, making it a highly nutritious food. Its main components include:
- Water: About 87% of milk is water, which acts as the solvent for all other components
- Proteins: Milk proteins make up about 3.2-3.5% of milk and consist mainly of casein (around 80%) and whey proteins (about 20%). Casein forms micelles that carry calcium and phosphorus, while whey proteins include enzymes and other soluble proteins
- Fats: Milk fat is about 3.6-3.9%, including triacylglycerides, saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K
- Carbohydrates: Lactose, a disaccharide sugar composed of glucose and galactose, constitutes about 4.6-4.8% of milk
- Vitamins: Milk contains water-soluble vitamins like B2 (riboflavin), B12, and fat-soluble vitamins A, D (often fortified), E, and K. These vitamins support growth, metabolism, and immune function
- Minerals: Milk is rich in calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iodine, magnesium, sodium, and trace minerals like zinc and selenium. Calcium and phosphorus are critical for bone and teeth health
In summary, milk is a complex natural food composed primarily of water, proteins (casein and whey), fats, lactose, vitamins, and minerals, providing a balanced source of nutrients essential for growth and health
