How much sugar is in milk?

Lactose is the naturally occurring sugar in milk, and plain milk contains approximately 5 grams of lactose per 100mL.

Last updated 17/01/2024

There is approximately 5 grams of sugar (lactose) per 100 mL in plain milk, while flavoured milk, such as chocolate, does contain added sugar (or sweeteners such as Stevia).

A quick look at a food product label reveals that plain milk contains approximately 5 grams of sugar per 100 mL (which is the naturally occurring lactose). Flavoured milks on the other hand contain different amounts of added sugar or other sweeteners. An analysis of flavoured milks available in Australian supermarkets shows these products contain, on average, one teaspoon of added sugar per 100mL.

Dairy Australia is also engaging with manufacturers and the Government to identify how we can make sugar labelling more meaningful so consumers can work out how much sugar is naturally occurring and how much is added.

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