What Happens When You Drink Powdered Milk Every Day?

December 27, 2025 •

4 min read

According to Dairy.com.au, powdered milk is just as nutritious as fresh milk, with its concentrated nutrients coming from the removal of water. But what happens when you drink powdered milk every day, and how does this concentrated form affect your health and nutrition over time?

Quick Summary

Consuming powdered milk daily offers protein, calcium, and convenience due to its long shelf life, comparable to fresh milk's nutritional value. However, depending on the type and quantity, concerns may include higher saturated fat and cholesterol, along with potential digestive issues for those with lactose intolerance. Storage practices are also vital to prevent bacterial growth and maintain safety.

Key Points

Nutrient-rich and Convenient: Powdered milk retains most of the protein, calcium, and vitamins from fresh milk, offering a long-lasting, shelf-stable source of nutrition.
Potential for High Cholesterol: Whole powdered milk can contain oxidized cholesterol from the drying process, a substance that may pose cardiovascular risks with excessive, daily consumption.
Check Fat and Calorie Content: Whole powdered milk is concentrated, meaning it is higher in saturated fat and calories per equivalent serving than fresh milk, so low-fat varieties are often a healthier choice.
Digestive Risks: Individuals with lactose intolerance should be cautious, as daily consumption of powdered milk provides a concentrated dose of lactose that can cause significant digestive distress.
Proper Storage is Critical: To avoid bacterial contamination and foodborne illness, powdered milk must be stored correctly in an airtight container, especially after opening.

Nutritional Benefits of Daily Powdered Milk

When incorporated into a balanced diet, drinking powdered milk every day offers several significant nutritional advantages, making it a convenient and long-lasting dairy source.

Provides Essential Nutrients

Just like its liquid counterpart, powdered milk is packed with vital nutrients. It is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The powder also provides a concentrated dose of minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Many brands are also fortified with vitamins A and D to help the body absorb calcium more effectively and support immune function.

Offers a Long Shelf Life

One of the most appealing aspects of powdered milk is its extended shelf life, which can last for 18 months or more when stored correctly in a cool, dark, and dry place. This eliminates the risk of spoilage that comes with fresh milk, making it a perfect pantry staple for those with limited access to refrigeration or for emergency preparedness.

Budget-Friendly and Versatile

For many, powdered milk is a more affordable alternative to fresh milk due to lower shipping and storage costs. Its versatility extends beyond just drinking, as it can be used to add richness and flavor to a variety of recipes, including baked goods, soups, smoothies, and sauces.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While beneficial in moderation, daily and excessive consumption of powdered milk can introduce certain risks that warrant attention. The dehydration process can concentrate not only beneficial nutrients but also potentially harmful components.

Oxidized Cholesterol

Some research has indicated that powdered milk, particularly whole milk powder, can contain oxidized cholesterol. This occurs during the high-heat drying process. Oxidized cholesterol is considered more harmful than its unoxidized form, as it can damage blood vessels and contribute to arterial plaque formation, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease.

High in Saturated Fat and Calories

Whole powdered milk, in particular, is high in saturated fat and calories due to its concentrated nature. For individuals aiming to manage their weight or reduce their risk of heart disease, excessive consumption could be counterproductive. Many health experts recommend opting for low-fat or nonfat versions to minimize this risk.

Digestive Issues

For those with lactose intolerance, consuming daily powdered milk can lead to digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea, as the lactose is still present. The higher concentration of lactose in powdered milk might even trigger symptoms in individuals who can tolerate small amounts of fresh milk.

Sodium Content

Some powdered milk varieties, especially those with added ingredients for flavor or texture, can have higher sodium levels than fresh milk. This is a consideration for individuals on a low-sodium diet, who should always check the nutrition label.

Bacterial Contamination Risk

If not stored correctly in an airtight container or if it becomes contaminated with moisture, powdered milk can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Proper hygiene and storage are critical to preventing foodborne illness. For a comprehensive resource on food safety, see the US Food & Drug Administration's guide on safe food handling practices [https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/safe-food-handling-your-kitchen].

Powdered Milk vs. Fresh Milk: A Nutritional Comparison

While often compared, powdered and fresh milk have distinct nutritional profiles and properties. Here is a breakdown of their differences, assuming a serving size equivalent to one cup of fresh milk.


Feature	Powdered Milk (Whole)	Fresh Milk (Whole)
Shelf Life	Very long (18+ months)	Very short (approx. 7-10 days)
Convenience	Highly convenient for storage and transport	Requires refrigeration and has limited transportability
Calories	Higher per equivalent serving	Lower per serving
Fat	Higher in saturated fat	Lower in saturated fat
Vitamins (B12 & C)	May have lower levels due to heat processing	Higher levels naturally
Minerals	Often fortified, can be higher in some minerals like magnesium	Rich in calcium and phosphorus
Taste & Texture	Distinct, often described as less fresh	Creamier and smoother
Cholesterol	Can contain oxidized cholesterol, especially if whole milk powder	Less likely to have oxidized cholesterol

Conclusion

Daily consumption of powdered milk can be a convenient and cost-effective way to meet your daily intake of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, especially in situations where fresh milk is not readily available. It is a versatile pantry item that can be used in numerous ways to boost the nutritional profile of your meals and snacks. However, the key to healthy consumption lies in moderation and being mindful of the specific type of powdered milk you choose.

For those concerned about higher saturated fat, calories, or oxidized cholesterol, opting for a nonfat or low-fat variety is a wise choice. People with lactose intolerance should approach powdered milk cautiously, as it contains concentrated lactose that can cause digestive problems. As with any dietary change, paying attention to your body's response and consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended.

Ultimately, when used responsibly and as part of a balanced diet, powdered milk can be a valuable dietary supplement, providing many of the same benefits as its fresh counterpart without the logistical challenges of refrigeration and short shelf life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Drinking powdered milk every day is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. However, moderation is key, especially when choosing whole milk powder, due to its concentrated fat and calorie content.

Neither is definitively 'healthier,' as their nutritional profiles are similar, but with some key differences. While fresh milk may have higher levels of some heat-sensitive vitamins like B12, many powdered milk brands are fortified to compensate for any nutrient loss during processing. Powdered milk can be higher in calories, fats, and sodium per equivalent serving.

Since powdered milk is more calorie-dense than fresh milk, especially whole milk powder, daily and excessive consumption without balancing your overall calorie intake could contribute to weight gain. Opting for low-fat or skim powdered milk can help reduce calorie and fat intake.

Yes, for those who are lactose intolerant, daily consumption can cause digestive issues like bloating, cramps, and gas. This is because powdered milk contains concentrated lactose, the sugar found in milk that the body of a lactose-intolerant person has trouble digesting.

Oxidized cholesterol is cholesterol that has been damaged by high heat during the drying process, primarily found in whole milk powder. It is a concern for some because it can be more irritating to blood vessels and potentially contribute to heart disease, though nonfat powdered milk is virtually cholesterol-free.

To prevent bacterial growth and maintain its quality, powdered milk should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry location in an airtight container. This will protect it from moisture and extend its already long shelf life.

Absolutely. Powdered milk is a very versatile ingredient used in many recipes to add milk flavor, creaminess, and protein. It works well in baked goods, soups, sauces, and smoothies.