How many calories are in 500ml of buffalo milk?

December 11, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, buffalo milk typically contains significantly more calories per serving than cow's milk due to its higher fat and protein content. Understanding exactly how many calories are in 500ml of buffalo milk is important for those monitoring their energy intake or comparing dairy options.

Quick Summary

This guide breaks down the calorie count for a 500ml serving of buffalo milk, detailing its fat, protein, and carbohydrate content and comparing it to cow's milk for a comprehensive nutritional overview.

Key Points

Approximate Calorie Count: A 500ml serving of buffalo milk contains approximately 300-350 calories, significantly higher than cow's milk due to its richer composition.
High Fat Content: Fat is the largest contributor to the calorie count, with buffalo milk containing about 15-18g of fat per 500ml.
Higher Protein Levels: Buffalo milk is richer in protein (10-11g per 500ml), which also increases its energy density and can promote a feeling of fullness.
Nutrient-Dense Option: Beyond calories, it offers higher levels of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals, supporting bone health.
Influential Factors: The exact calorie count can be affected by factors such as the buffalo's breed, diet, and seasonal variations.

Calorie Breakdown for 500ml of Buffalo Milk

A 500ml serving of buffalo milk contains approximately 300 to 350 calories. This estimate can vary slightly depending on factors like the buffalo's diet, the specific breed, and the processing method used. The primary reason for the higher calorie count in buffalo milk compared to cow's milk is its richer composition. It boasts a higher concentration of both fats and protein, which are the two macronutrients that contribute most significantly to its energy density.

Calculating Calories from Macronutrients

To fully understand how these calories are derived, it's helpful to look at the macronutrient breakdown. For a standard 500ml serving, the nutritional profile looks like this:

Fat: At around 15-18 grams, fat is the most calorie-dense component. Since each gram of fat contains 9 calories, this single macronutrient contributes between 135 and 162 calories to the total.
Protein: Providing approximately 10-11 grams, protein is also a significant contributor. With 4 calories per gram, this adds about 40 to 44 calories.
Carbohydrates (Lactose): Buffalo milk contains around 24-26 grams of carbohydrates, mainly in the form of lactose. Each gram of carbohydrate provides 4 calories, adding roughly 96 to 104 calories.

Nutritional Comparison: Buffalo Milk vs. Cow's Milk (per 500ml)

Buffalo milk's nutritional density is a key differentiator from cow's milk. The following comparison table highlights these differences for a clearer perspective.


Nutrient	Buffalo Milk (Approx. per 500ml)	Whole Cow's Milk (Approx. per 500ml)
Calories	300–350 kcal	300–320 kcal
Fat	15–18 grams	16–18 grams
Protein	10–11 grams	15–16 grams
Carbohydrates	24–26 grams	24–26 grams
Calcium	~410mg (32% of DV per cup)	~300mg (21% of DV per cup)

Note: DV refers to Daily Value. Figures are approximate and can vary by product and source.

Factors Influencing Calorie Content

The calorie count for buffalo milk is not a static number. Several factors can affect its final nutritional value:

Breed: Different breeds of buffalo produce milk with varying fat percentages. For example, Murrah buffalo, common in India, are known for their high-fat milk.
Diet and Season: A buffalo's feed and the season can influence the composition of its milk. Studies show seasonal variations in milk components, particularly fat and protein content, which directly impacts calorie density.
Processing: The way the milk is processed and packaged also plays a role. Standardized milk may have a different fat percentage than raw, full-fat milk.

Health Benefits and Considerations

While high in calories, buffalo milk offers several nutritional advantages. It is an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals, which are crucial for bone health. Its high protein content can also contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in appetite management. Furthermore, buffalo milk has beneficial compounds with antioxidant properties.

However, its richness means it is higher in fat and is not recommended for infants or individuals on a strict low-fat diet due to its slower digestion time. Its lower cholesterol content compared to cow's milk can be a beneficial factor for some individuals with specific health conditions. For those concerned about lactose, the lactose content in buffalo milk is slightly higher than in cow's milk, which is a consideration for people with lactose intolerance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, a 500ml serving of buffalo milk offers a calorie-dense and nutrient-rich option, with an approximate calorie count of 300-350 kcal. Its high fat and protein content make it a hearty choice, distinct from cow's milk. While it offers excellent benefits for bone and overall health, individuals should consider their dietary goals and personal tolerance when incorporating it into their diet. The rich, creamy profile makes it a popular ingredient for various dairy products and culinary uses globally. You can explore the nutritional science further at the Healthline article on buffalo milk: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/buffalo-milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo milk has more calories than cow's milk primarily because of its higher fat and protein content. These two macronutrients are more concentrated in buffalo milk, leading to greater energy density per serving.

Due to its high calorie and fat content, buffalo milk may not be ideal for those strictly focused on weight loss. However, its higher protein can increase satiety, which may help manage overall food intake.

A 500ml serving of buffalo milk contains approximately 15-18 grams of fat, with a high proportion of saturated fat.

In a 500ml serving, buffalo milk typically provides about 10-11 grams of protein, a higher amount compared to cow's milk.

Studies have shown that seasonal factors, such as heat stress and changes in a buffalo's diet, can influence the concentration of milk components, particularly fat and protein, which can alter the calorie count.

Buffalo milk's lactose content is slightly higher than cow's milk, making it potentially unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. Cow's milk might be a better option for those with mild sensitivity.

Buffalo milk is rich in minerals like calcium and phosphorus, supporting bone health. It also contains antioxidants and has properties that may help manage blood pressure.