Which milk is good for drinking in Pakistan?

January 5, 2026 •

5 min read

In 2017, a Supreme Court-mandated report by PCSIR found that only a handful of packaged milk brands were safe for consumption, sparking serious debate over dairy safety and influencing the ongoing question of which milk is good for drinking in Pakistan. This incident highlighted the need for consumers to be well-informed about their milk options, from source and processing to nutritional value and digestibility.

Quick Summary

This guide explores the various milk types available in Pakistan, including packaged UHT, traditional loose milk, cow, buffalo, and plant-based alternatives. It provides a detailed comparison to help consumers decide based on nutritional needs, digestibility, and taste preference.

Key Points

Safety First: Packaged UHT milk offers the highest safety standards, as the heat treatment process kills all harmful microorganisms.
Digestibility: For those with sensitive stomachs or mild lactose intolerance, goat milk, A2 cow milk, or lactose-free milk are excellent alternatives.
Traditional vs. Modern: While loose, fresh milk is a cultural staple, it poses a higher health risk from contamination and adulteration compared to hygienically processed UHT milk.
Nutritional Value: Core nutrients like protein and calcium are generally consistent across UHT and fresh milk, though heat-sensitive vitamins are higher in unpasteurized or lightly pasteurized milk.
Cooking and Taste: Buffalo milk is preferred for rich, creamy sweets due to its higher fat content, whereas cow's milk is lighter and often preferred for daily consumption.
Informed Choice: Factors like personal health goals, dietary needs, taste preference, and how the milk will be used are critical when deciding which milk is good for drinking in Pakistan.

Understanding the Milk Landscape in Pakistan

For many Pakistani households, milk is a dietary staple, integral to everything from a morning cup of chai to rich, creamy desserts. However, the market offers a complex array of choices, from traditional loose (kachcha) milk sold by vendors to modern, Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) processed packaged milk, and an increasing number of lactose-free and plant-based options. Understanding the differences in sourcing, processing, and nutritional content is crucial for making a healthy, informed decision.

Packaged (UHT) vs. Loose Milk

One of the most significant dilemmas for Pakistani consumers is choosing between the convenience and long shelf-life of packaged UHT milk and the traditionally preferred loose milk. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages.

UHT (Packaged) Milk

UHT milk undergoes a process where it is heated to a very high temperature (135–150°C) for a few seconds before being sealed in aseptic packaging.

Pros:
- Safety: The high-temperature treatment kills all harmful microorganisms, making it safe for consumption straight from the pack.
- Convenience: Its long shelf-life (3-6 months unopened) and no refrigeration requirement (before opening) offer great convenience.
- Consistent Quality: Leading brands ensure a consistent product quality and nutritional profile.
Cons:
- Taste: The intense heat can give UHT milk a slightly cooked or caramelised flavour that some people dislike.
- Nutrient Loss: While major nutrients like calcium and protein remain stable, some heat-sensitive vitamins (like Vitamin C and some B vitamins) are reduced, though milk is not a primary source for these.

Loose (Fresh) Milk

Loose milk is unprocessed milk, usually from buffaloes or cows, purchased directly from milkmen or local vendors. Its safety and nutritional value are heavily dependent on the source.

Pros:
- Freshness: Considered fresher by some, with a natural, less processed taste.
- Tradition: Part of traditional culinary practices for many families.
Cons:
- Safety: Loose milk has a very short shelf life and is highly susceptible to contamination and adulteration, which can pose serious health risks.
- Inconsistent Quality: Nutritional content, taste, and hygiene can vary significantly from one vendor to another.

Dairy Alternatives for Better Digestion and Health

Beyond the standard UHT and loose options, several types of milk cater to specific dietary needs or preferences, which might be a better choice for some individuals.

Lactose-Free Milk: For those with lactose intolerance, this is a game-changer. The lactose sugar is broken down into simpler, easily digestible sugars, preventing common digestive issues like bloating and gas.
Goat Milk: Increasingly popular for its digestibility, as it contains smaller fat globules and is naturally lower in lactose than cow's milk. It also contains only A2 casein protein, which some find easier to digest than the A1 protein in regular cow's milk.
A2 Cow Milk: Regular cow's milk contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins. For some, the A1 protein can cause digestive discomfort. A2 milk, which only contains the A2 protein, is marketed as being easier to digest.
Plant-Based Milks: Alternatives like almond, soy, and coconut milk offer dairy-free options for vegans or those with dairy allergies. However, their nutritional content, especially protein and calcium, can differ significantly and often requires fortification.

Comparison of Different Milk Types


Parameter	Buffalo Milk	Cow Milk (Standard)	UHT Milk (Packaged)	Goat Milk
Fat Content	High (6-7%), creamier texture	Lower (3-4%), lighter consistency	Varies (Full Cream, Low-Fat)	Lower fat globules, easier digestion
Digestibility	Heavier on the stomach for some due to higher fat and solids.	Easier to digest for most individuals.	Depends on brand; easy for most unless lactose intolerant.	Naturally easier to digest due to A2 protein and smaller fat globules.
Protein	Higher (4.5g per 100ml)	Lower (3.2g per 100ml)	Varies, but typically consistent with source.	Comparable to cow milk, higher in some cases.
Calcium	Very high (210mg per 100ml)	Good source (120mg per 100ml)	Consistent with source, unaffected by UHT.	Good source, often easier to absorb.
Best For	Desserts (kheer, mithai), creamy yogurt.	Everyday drinking, cereals, tea/coffee.	Convenience, safety, consistency.	Better digestion, those with mild lactose sensitivity.
Safety Risk	High, if bought loose and not properly boiled.	High, if bought loose and not properly boiled.	Very low, sealed for safety.	Variable, check source if buying fresh.

Making the Right Choice for Your Household

For General Consumption

For most families without specific dietary restrictions, UHT milk from a reputable brand like Olper's or Nestlé Milkpak is the safest and most convenient option. The processing eliminates safety risks while preserving core nutritional values. For those who prefer a less processed taste, seeking out fresh, pasteurized milk from a reliable local dairy is a good compromise, though it requires refrigeration.

For Digestibility Concerns

For individuals with sensitive stomachs, mild lactose intolerance, or general digestive discomfort, exploring A2 cow milk or goat milk may be beneficial. Brands like Nestlé Milkpak offer A2 milk, and specialised stores or farms provide goat milk. Lactose-free milk is also widely available from various UHT brands.

For Traditional Cooking

For making rich, thick desserts like kheer or creamy dahi (yogurt), the higher fat content of buffalo milk is often preferred. However, strict adherence to boiling and proper hygiene is paramount if using loose milk.

For Dietary Restrictions (Vegan/Dairy-Free)

For those following a vegan diet or who have a dairy allergy, plant-based options are the way to go. It's important to check that these alternatives are fortified with calcium and vitamin D to ensure a comparable nutritional intake.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best milk for drinking in Pakistan depends on your priorities regarding safety, nutrition, and personal preference. Packaged UHT milk provides the highest level of safety and convenience, while loose milk, though traditional, carries significant health risks due to potential contamination and adulteration. For those with digestive issues, exploring goat milk, A2 cow milk, or lactose-free variants is a wise step. For more information on the processing differences, you can refer to insights from industry experts like Tetra Pak. Regardless of the type chosen, prioritising a reputable brand with strong quality control is the best approach to ensuring a safe and nutritious dairy experience.

Source: Tetra Pak on UHT milk myths, facts, and the processing involved.(https://www.tetrapak.com/en-pk/insights/food-categories/dairy/kill-uht-milk-myth)

Frequently Asked Questions

No, for major nutrients like protein and calcium, UHT and fresh milk have virtually identical nutritional values. The high heat process can minimally impact some heat-sensitive vitamins (like Vitamin C and some B vitamins), but milk is not a primary source of these nutrients.

Loose milk carries a higher risk of contamination and adulteration. Without proper boiling and quality control, it can be unsafe for consumption. The Supreme Court's 2017 findings raised significant concerns about the safety of many loose milk products.

Cow's milk is generally considered easier to digest for most people due to its lower fat content. However, for those sensitive to the A1 protein in standard cow's milk, buffalo milk's A2 protein or specialised A2 cow milk may be gentler on the stomach.

A2 milk is a type of cow's milk that contains only the A2 beta-casein protein, which some people find easier to digest than the A1 protein found in standard cow's milk. Yes, brands like Nestlé Milkpak offer A2 milk options in Pakistan.

Individuals with lactose intolerance can opt for lactose-free milk offered by major brands like Dayfresh and others. Goat milk, which is naturally lower in lactose, is also an excellent option.

Buffalo milk is preferred for desserts because it has a higher fat content and higher total solids compared to cow's milk. This results in a thicker, creamier, and richer texture, which is ideal for sweets and traditional dairy products like yogurt and paneer.

The choice depends on your dietary goals. Low-fat milk is lower in calories and saturated fat, making it suitable for weight management and heart health. Full-cream milk offers a richer taste and is higher in calories, suitable for individuals with higher energy needs.