Which dairy products are low in potassium?

October 14, 2025 •

4 min read

For individuals with chronic kidney disease, managing potassium intake is often a critical part of their dietary plan. Since many dairy products contain significant levels of this mineral, it is crucial to understand which dairy products are low in potassium to make informed and healthy choices.

Quick Summary

This guide outlines specific dairy and non-dairy alternatives that are low in potassium for those on a managed diet. It covers low-potassium cheeses, creams, and milk alternatives while emphasizing the importance of checking product labels for added minerals.

Key Points

Check Labels for Potassium Additives: Some low-sodium cheeses use potassium chloride as a salt substitute, which increases potassium content.
Goat Cheese is a Great Low-Potassium Option: Soft goat cheese has one of the lowest potassium levels among cheeses, making it a safe and flavorful choice.
Choose Rice and Coconut Milk for Low-Potassium Alternatives: Plant-based milk alternatives like rice and unsweetened carton coconut milk are often low in potassium, but always read the label.
Limit Cow's Milk and Yogurt: Regular cow's milk and traditional yogurts are higher in potassium and should be consumed in limited quantities or replaced with alternatives.
Practice Portion Control with all Dairy: Even low-potassium dairy products should be consumed in moderation, especially on a strict renal diet, to avoid accumulation of other minerals like phosphorus.

The Importance of Managing Potassium

Potassium is a vital mineral that helps maintain proper nerve and muscle function, including controlling your heartbeat. For people with healthy kidneys, excess potassium is efficiently filtered out of the body. However, for those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or other health conditions affecting the kidneys, potassium can build up in the blood, leading to a condition called hyperkalemia. This can cause serious health complications, making it necessary to limit potassium-rich foods, including many dairy products. The goal is to reduce overall intake while still getting necessary nutrients like calcium and protein.

Low-Potassium Dairy Choices

While some dairy products are high in potassium, several options are lower and can be incorporated into a managed diet, often with some portion control.

Low-Potassium Cheeses

Most cheeses are naturally low in potassium, which makes them a great option for adding flavor and calcium to meals. However, some low-sodium cheeses may add potassium chloride, so checking the label is essential. Here are some of the best choices:

Goat Cheese: Contains one of the lowest amounts of potassium among all cheeses.
Feta Cheese: This tangy cheese is also very low in potassium.
Cream Cheese: A popular soft cheese that is low in potassium.
Brie: Another soft cheese with a low potassium count.
Shredded Parmesan: A small amount adds a powerful flavor without contributing much potassium.
Swiss Cheese: A good option, especially low-sodium varieties.

Low-Potassium Creams

Creams are generally lower in potassium than milk due to their higher fat and lower water content. This makes them suitable for use in moderation.

Heavy or Double Cream: Can be used sparingly in sauces or desserts.
Crème Fraîche: A tangy, thickened cream that is a low-potassium addition to many dishes.
Sour Cream: Can be used in small amounts.

Low-Potassium Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives

For those who need to strictly limit potassium or are avoiding dairy for other reasons, plant-based alternatives offer excellent, low-potassium options. It is critical to read labels for added minerals, especially phosphorus and calcium, as well as potassium chloride.

Rice Milk: Naturally low in potassium, phosphorus, and protein, it is often a preferred choice. Check for brands without added phosphates.
Unsweetened Coconut Milk (from a carton): The thinner, carton version is typically lower in potassium than the canned, thicker variety.
Almond Milk (Unsweetened): Another low-potassium option, but check labels for added minerals like calcium phosphate.
Oat Milk: Can be a good choice, but nutrient content can vary. Some brands, like Nancy's Oatmilk Yogurt, are low in potassium and contain no phosphorus additives.

Deciphering Food Labels

For anyone on a potassium-restricted diet, label-reading is not just a suggestion—it's a necessity. Here’s what to look for:

Potassium Chloride: This is sometimes used as a salt substitute in low-sodium products, which can increase potassium content. Avoid products listing it in the ingredients.
Phosphate Additives: Look for ingredients with “phos” in the name, such as calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, or phosphoric acid, and avoid them.
Fortification: Some dairy alternatives are heavily fortified with calcium and other minerals that may need to be managed on a renal diet.

Low Potassium Dairy Comparison Table


Product Type	Example	Typical Potassium (per serving)*	Notes
Dairy	Cream cheese (2 tbsp)	~37 mg	A great low-potassium, low-protein choice.
Dairy	Soft Goat cheese (1 oz)	~7 mg	Very low potassium; a tasty option for salads.
Dairy	Shredded Parmesan (1 tbsp)	~5 mg	Small serving adds lots of flavor; use sparingly.
Dairy	Cottage Cheese (no salt added, 1/2 cup)	~200 mg	Higher in potassium and protein; portion size is key.
Dairy	Plain Cow's Milk (1 cup)	~380 mg	Significantly higher; portion must be limited.
Alternative	Rice Milk (1 cup)	~20-80 mg	Naturally low; always check ingredients for additives.
Alternative	Unsweetened Coconut Milk (carton)	Very low (often <50 mg)	Avoid high-potassium canned versions and check for additives.
Alternative	Almond Milk (1 cup)	~75-250 mg	Varies by brand; can have added calcium.
Alternative	Forager Cashew Yogurt (1 tub)	~2 mg	Very low potassium, but check for other ingredients.

*Note: Nutritional information can vary by brand. Always check the product's nutritional label for the most accurate information. Serving sizes listed are for comparison purposes.

Conclusion

Finding low-potassium dairy products requires careful selection and paying close attention to labels. For those needing to restrict their intake, soft and hard cheeses like goat cheese and parmesan are generally good options in moderate portions. Plant-based milk alternatives such as rice milk and unsweetened coconut milk are excellent, naturally low-potassium substitutes, but ingredient lists must be scrutinized for added minerals. By making informed choices, you can continue to enjoy a variety of dairy and dairy-like foods while effectively managing your potassium levels and supporting your overall health.

For more detailed guidance on dietary management for kidney health, consult reputable resources like the National Kidney Foundation, which provides up-to-date dietary recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Soft goat cheese is among the lowest-potassium cheeses, containing only about 7 mg of potassium per ounce.

Unsweetened almond milk is generally lower in potassium than cow's milk, but the exact amount can vary. Always check the label, and be aware some brands add calcium or other minerals.

Most cheeses are relatively low in potassium, with goat cheese, feta, and cream cheese being particularly low. However, high-sodium cheeses sometimes contain potassium chloride, and portion control is always recommended.

You should be cautious with soy milk, which is naturally higher in potassium. Also, always check labels as fortification and additives can affect potassium levels in plant-based milks.

Standard cow's milk is higher in potassium and is often limited to a small amount (such as a half-pint or 300 ml per day) on a restricted diet. Rice milk or unsweetened coconut milk are better alternatives for more frequent use.

Yes, traditional yogurt is generally high in potassium. Small portions of plain yogurt might be allowed on a managed diet, but Greek yogurt often has slightly less potassium and more protein. Plant-based yogurts like cashew or coconut are better low-potassium options.

You can use heavy cream or non-dairy creamers, as these are typically lower in potassium. Just check the labels for any potassium-containing additives.