What is the primary carbohydrate found in milk?

The primary carbohydrate found in milk is lactose. Lactose is a sugar that comes from the milk of mammals and consists of two simple sugars, glucose and galactose. It provides energy and is an essential component of milk, making it an important source of nutrition, especially for infants and young children who rely on milk for their dietary needs.

In the context of milk composition, while casein is a significant protein found in milk, it does not classify as a carbohydrate. Fat contributes to the creamy texture and flavor of milk but is classified as a lipid rather than a carbohydrate. Proteins, including casein and whey, are also vital components of milk but again fall under a different macronutrient category. Lactose stands out distinctly as the primary carbohydrate in milk, both in terms of content and its functional role in nutrition.