Does Fairlife Milk Have Less Carbs?

January 6, 2026 •

2 min read

According to the official Fairlife website, their ultra-filtered milk contains 50% less sugar than regular milk, which directly translates to a lower carbohydrate count. This is achieved through a specialized filtration process that separates and then recombines the milk's components.

Quick Summary

Fairlife milk contains fewer carbohydrates than regular milk, thanks to an ultra-filtration process. The process removes much of the natural lactose, which is a sugar, while concentrating protein and calcium. This makes it a popular option for those seeking higher protein, lower sugar dairy. It is also lactose-free, benefiting those with lactose intolerance.

Key Points

Less Carbs: Fairlife milk has significantly fewer carbs than regular milk, typically half the amount per serving, due to the removal of lactose through ultra-filtration.
Higher Protein: The ultra-filtration process concentrates the milk's protein, resulting in 50% more protein per serving compared to traditional milk.
Lactose-Free: By filtering out most of the lactose, Fairlife becomes a suitable dairy option for individuals who are lactose intolerant.
Supports Low-Carb Diets: The lower carbohydrate and higher protein content make Fairlife milk a viable option for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets, in moderation.
Increased Calcium: In addition to more protein, Fairlife milk contains higher concentrations of calcium, which supports bone health.
Creamy Flavor and Texture: The ultra-filtration process results in a creamier, richer taste and texture that many people find more appealing than regular milk.

Understanding Fairlife Milk's Ultra-Filtration Process

Fairlife milk's unique nutritional profile, including its lower carb content, is a direct result of its ultra-filtration process. This physical process uses special filters to separate milk components by size. During this process, lactose, a sugar and carbohydrate, is largely removed, while protein and calcium are concentrated. This results in a milk product with significantly less sugar and fewer carbohydrates compared to traditional milk. This concentration also leads to Fairlife being a high-protein dairy option.

How Fairlife Stacks Up Against Regular Milk

A direct comparison highlights Fairlife's lower carb and higher protein content. A typical cup of Fairlife ultra-filtered milk has about 6 grams of carbohydrates, half the amount in a standard cup of regular milk (approximately 12 grams). The removal of most lactose during ultra-filtration makes Fairlife an excellent lactose-free option. Furthermore, Fairlife contains 50% more protein than conventional milk, appealing to those increasing protein intake.

Nutritional Comparison: Fairlife Milk vs. Regular Milk


Nutrient (per 1 cup serving)	Fairlife 2% Ultra-Filtered Milk	Regular 2% Milk
Carbohydrates	~6g	~12g
Protein	~13g	~8g
Lactose	No (lactose-free)	Yes
Calcium	~380mg	~295mg
Sugar	~6g	~12g

Is Fairlife Suitable for a Low-Carb or Keto Diet?

Fairlife milk can be suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets when consumed in moderation. Its lower carb content and higher protein can support satiety. However, portion control is important as carbs can accumulate. A single cup containing 6 grams of carbs can be managed within daily limits, especially when combined with other low-carb ingredients.

Potential uses in a low-carb diet:

Adding to coffee or tea.
Using in small amounts in low-carb recipes.
As a post-workout recovery drink.

Other Nutritional Considerations

Fairlife milk's ultra-filtration process concentrates other nutrients, leading to higher levels of protein and calcium, beneficial for bone health and muscle function. Many varieties are also fortified with Vitamins A and D. While considered more processed than regular milk, it's made from real milk and retains essential nutrients.

How to Choose the Right Fairlife Product

Fairlife offers various products with differing nutritional values:

Fat-Free: The lowest-calorie option.
2% Reduced-Fat: A balanced choice.
Whole Milk: Creamiest option with more fat but still less sugar and more protein than regular whole milk.
Chocolate Milk: Contains added sugar and sweeteners, resulting in a higher carb count. Check the label for sugar intake monitoring.

Conclusion

Fairlife milk contains fewer carbohydrates than regular milk due to ultra-filtration removing lactose. This makes it appealing for low-carb diets, those with lactose intolerance, and those seeking higher protein and calcium. Although more processed, it retains milk's benefits and can be part of a balanced diet in moderation. Always check the nutrition label for specific product details.

The Ultra-Filtration Advantage

Beyond nutrient profile changes, Fairlife's ultra-filtration contributes to a longer shelf life and a richer, creamier taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fairlife milk has less carbs because it undergoes an ultra-filtration process that removes much of the natural lactose, which is a form of sugar and a carbohydrate.

Yes, in moderation. Due to its lower carb count (about 6g per cup) and higher protein, Fairlife can be incorporated into a ketogenic diet, but serving size should be monitored to stay within daily carb limits.

Fairlife's ultra-filtered milk contains 50% less sugar than regular milk, which is a direct consequence of the removal of lactose during processing.

Fairlife milk's lower carb and sugar content can help manage blood sugar levels, making it a potentially better dairy option for people with diabetes, according to some health professionals.

Yes, the ultra-filtration process and the addition of a lactase enzyme make Fairlife milk lactose-free, making it easy to digest for those with lactose intolerance.

No, Fairlife does not add protein powders or concentrates. The higher protein content is achieved by concentrating the milk's naturally occurring proteins during the ultra-filtration process.

The ultra-filtration process is a physical separation method using filters and is generally considered safe. It simply concentrates certain nutrients while removing others without adding chemicals.

Yes, because of the extra ultra-filtration step, Fairlife milk is considered a more processed food product than regular pasteurized milk.

Many people find Fairlife milk to have a richer, creamier taste than regular milk, attributed to the higher concentration of protein and calcium.