Is there a drink with vitamin D?

December 25, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, few foods naturally contain vitamin D, which is why fortified beverages are crucial for many to meet their daily intake goals. So, is there a drink with vitamin D? Yes, many common drinks are fortified with this essential nutrient to help support bone and immune health.

Quick Summary

Several drinks are fortified with vitamin D, including dairy and plant-based milks, and orange juice. Fortification, a public health initiative, helps supplement dietary intake, especially for those with limited sun exposure or dietary restrictions. These beverages play a key role in supporting bone health and immunity.

Key Points

Fortified Milks: Cow's milk and many plant-based alternatives like soy, almond, and oat milks are commonly fortified with vitamin D.
Fortified Orange Juice: A non-dairy source of vitamin D, often providing around 100 IU per serving, but can be high in sugar.
Natural Sources are Scarce: Few foods naturally contain high levels of vitamin D, making fortification a vital public health measure.
Vitamin D and Calcium: The fortification of milk is particularly effective because vitamin D enhances the absorption of milk's natural calcium.
Check the Label: Not all beverages are fortified, so always check the nutrition facts panel to confirm vitamin D content.
Consider Supplements: For individuals with low sun exposure or dietary limitations, supplements may be necessary to maintain sufficient vitamin D levels.
Health Benefits: Adequate vitamin D supports bone density, immune function, and overall health.

Understanding Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in regulating calcium and phosphate in the body, which are essential for strong bones, teeth, and muscles. Nicknamed the 'sunshine vitamin,' it is primarily synthesized in the skin when exposed to sunlight. However, factors such as geographic location, lifestyle, and skin pigmentation can limit natural production, making dietary sources and supplements important. For this reason, many drinks and foods are fortified with vitamin D to help prevent widespread deficiency.

Fortified Drinks with Vitamin D

While few foods naturally contain significant amounts of vitamin D, food fortification is a widespread practice to ensure adequate intake. Many common beverages are voluntarily or mandatorily fortified, making it easier to consume this vital nutrient. Always check the nutrition label, as not all brands or varieties are fortified.

Dairy Milk

Since the 1930s in the United States, dairy milk has been fortified with vitamin D as a public health measure to combat rickets, a condition affecting bone development. Today, nearly all cow's milk sold in the U.S. is fortified, providing around 100 IU of vitamin D per 8-ounce serving. This fortification is particularly effective as vitamin D works synergistically with milk's high calcium content to support bone health.

Plant-Based Milks

For those who are lactose intolerant or follow vegan diets, many plant-based milk alternatives are fortified with vitamin D and other nutrients like calcium. Soy, almond, oat, and rice milks are common examples. The amount of vitamin D can vary by brand, so checking the nutrition facts label is essential. Some manufacturers even add higher levels than what is typically found in dairy milk.

Orange Juice

Calcium-fortified orange juice is another popular beverage enriched with vitamin D. A standard 8-ounce cup of fortified orange juice can contain approximately 100 IU of vitamin D. This offers a dairy-free option for boosting intake, though it is important to be mindful of added sugar content.

Smoothies and Shakes

Nutritional shakes and homemade smoothies are versatile ways to incorporate vitamin D-rich ingredients. Smoothies can be made using fortified milk or orange juice as a base and blended with other nutritious ingredients. Some nutritional shakes are also fortified with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D.

Natural vs. Fortified Drinks: A Comparison

To highlight the difference, here is a comparison of natural vs. fortified drink sources for vitamin D.


Drink Type	Vitamin D Source	Typical IU per Serving	Target Audience	Considerations
Fortified Cow's Milk	Added (D3)	~100 IU	General public	Works well with milk's natural calcium.
Fortified Plant-Based Milks	Added (D2 or D3)	~100-144 IU	Vegans, lactose intolerant	Levels vary significantly by brand. Check label.
Fortified Orange Juice	Added (D3)	~100 IU	Dairy-free consumers	Often contains high levels of added sugar.
Natural Yogurt Drinks	Very small, natural	~5 IU	General public	Very low amount; not a primary source.
Cod Liver Oil	Natural	~400+ IU (per teaspoon)	Those with specific needs	Not a beverage, but can be added to smoothies. Potent source.

Creating Your Own Vitamin D-Rich Smoothie

Making a homemade smoothie is an excellent way to control ingredients and ensure you are getting a significant boost of vitamin D. A simple recipe might include:

1 cup of fortified milk (dairy or plant-based)
1/2 cup of frozen fruit (like mango or strawberries)
1/2 banana
Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Are Vitamin D Supplements Necessary?

For many people, a balanced diet including fortified beverages is enough. However, some individuals may require supplements, especially those with limited sun exposure or certain medical conditions. Supplements are available in D2 and D3 forms, with D3 potentially being more effective at raising and maintaining blood levels. Before starting any new supplement, it's wise to consult a healthcare provider to determine the right dosage for your needs.

Conclusion

Yes, there are several drink options available today that contain vitamin D, primarily through fortification. From dairy and plant-based milks to orange juice, these beverages offer a convenient way to meet a portion of your daily nutritional needs. While natural food sources are limited, the availability of fortified drinks has made it much easier for individuals to support their bone health and immune function. Choosing fortified beverages, especially during darker seasons, is a smart and simple strategy to maintain adequate vitamin D levels.

For more detailed information on dietary reference intakes for vitamin D, visit the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, orange juice does not naturally contain vitamin D. However, many orange juice products are fortified with the vitamin, and you must check the label to confirm.

While it is not mandated by federal law in the U.S., most dairy milk manufacturers voluntarily fortify their products with vitamin D, a practice dating back to the 1930s to prevent rickets.

Beverages are most often fortified with vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, which is derived from animal sources. Some plant-based alternatives may use D2 (ergocalciferol).

It is unlikely to get too much vitamin D from food and fortified drinks alone. Overdosing typically occurs from taking high-dose supplements over a long period without medical guidance.

Apart from certain fish oils (which can be consumed as a liquid), there are very few drinks that are naturally rich in vitamin D. Most beverage sources rely on fortification.

No, you cannot assume all milk alternatives contain vitamin D. The amount and presence of fortification vary by brand, so it is crucial to read the product's nutrition label.

Fortification helps ensure that people who have limited sun exposure, dietary restrictions, or live in certain climates can still get enough vitamin D to support calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function.