What's the Difference Between Barista Milk and Regular Milk? It's What Gets Added to It

""Milk" is a regulated term. Food Standards Australia New Zealand sets requirements on fat and protein contents for dairy milk, and it has to come from "milking animals." These standards also state what can be added or modified; only plant sterols (a supplement to reduce blood cholesterol) are allowed. Despite the name, plant-based milks aren't bound by a specific "milk" standard."

"Barista milks, whether dairy or plant-based, are specifically formulated to foam more reliably, with a finer texture and longer-lasting bubbles. For cow's milk, this almost always means higher protein content: about 4-5% in barista milk compared to the 3.3-3.5% in regular milk. You'll often see "milk solids" listed in the ingredients; this is another name for dried skim milk, added to boost the protein content."

Supermarkets and cafes offer many milk options with different fat levels, added nutrients, lactose-free choices, and plant-based alternatives. Food Standards Australia New Zealand requires dairy milk to meet specific fat and protein contents and to originate from milking animals; only plant sterols are permitted as additives. Plant-based milks fall under broader beverage regulations and therefore vary widely in ingredients, proteins, sugars and fats, so labeling is explicit. Barista milks are formulated to foam more reliably with finer texture and longer-lasting bubbles. Cow-derived barista milks typically have 4–5% protein versus 3.3–3.5% in regular milk, and "milk solids" (dried skim milk) are often added to boost protein. Plant-based barista versions vary by base and manufacturer and commonly include added oils and other stabilizers to improve foaming and texture.

Read at Daily Coffee News by Roast Magazine