Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Butter vs Milk: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Butter has 717 calories while Milk has 61 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Milk

61 kcal

More Protein

Milk

3.2g

More Fiber

Butter

0g

Less Sugar

Butter

0.1g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Butter
717
Milk
61
Proteinper 100g
Butter
0.9g
Milk
3.2g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Butter
0.1g
Milk
4.8g
Fatper 100g
Butter
81g
Milk
3.3g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientButterMilkDifference
Calories717kcal61kcal+656.0kcal
Protein0.9g3.2g-2.3g
Carbohydrates0.1g4.8g-4.7g
Fat81g3.3g+77.7g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0.1g4.8g-4.7g
Sodium11mg44mg-33.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Butter

Per 100g:717 calories
Per cup (150g):1076 calories
Per serving (85g):609 calories

Milk

Per 100g:61 calories
Per cup (150g):92 calories
Per serving (85g):52 calories

Diet Compatibility

Butter

KetoLow-CarbVegetarianLow-Sodium

Milk

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Butter

  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0.1g vs 4.8g)
  • Less sugar (0.1g vs 4.8g)
  • Lower sodium (11mg vs 44mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Butter nutrition →

When to Choose Milk

  • Lower in calories (61 vs 717)
  • Higher in protein (3.2g vs 0.9g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Milk nutrition →

Butter vs Milk: Nutritional Analysis

Butter is more calorie-dense at 717 calories per 100g compared to 61 for Milk, a difference of 656 calories. On the protein front, Milk delivers more with 3.2g per 100g versus 0.9g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Butter and Milk tell different nutritional stories. Butter provides 0.1g of carbohydrates, 81g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Milk contains 4.8g carbs, 3.3g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Butter contains 0.1g while Milk has 4.8g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Milk is the lower-calorie choice at 61 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Milk provides more protein (3.2g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Butter offers more fiber (0g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Butter or Milk?

Butter has more calories with 717 kcal per 100g, compared to Milk with 61 kcal. That's a difference of 656 calories per 100g serving.

Is Butter healthier than Milk?

Butter and Milk have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Butter and Milk?

Milk has more protein with 3.2g per 100g, compared to Butter with 0.9g. Milk provides 2.3g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Butter or Milk?

For weight loss, Milk is the better choice with only 61 calories per 100g compared to 717 calories in Butter. Milk also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Butter or Milk have fewer carbs?

Butter has fewer carbs with 0.1g per 100g, compared to Milk with 4.8g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Butter is the better option with 4.7g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.