In this article
Editorial update: September 29, 2026. Text prepared with AI assistance from the sources listed. No independent clinical review. General information, not an individual meal plan.
Short answer
Generally, no. The Harvard Nutrition Source explains that some dairy products, such as whole milk, heavy cream, and ice cream, are restricted on keto because of lactose, the natural sugar in milk. Whole cow’s milk powder has 39.2 g of carbohydrate per 100 g, and skim milk powder has even more: 53.0 g.
How many carbs does powdered milk have?
| Food | Total carbohydrate (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Whole cow’s milk powder | 39.2 | 26.9 |
| Skim cow’s milk powder | 53.0 | 0.9 |
| Parmesan cheese | 1.7 | 33.5 |
| Brazilian Prato cheese | 1.9 | 29.1 |
| Salted butter | 0.1 | 82.4 |
Which dairy products usually fit
According to Harvard, butter and hard cheeses may be allowed because they have less lactose. The table shows the difference: Parmesan has 1.7 g of carbohydrate per 100 g and salted butter 0.1 g, compared with 39.2 g in whole milk powder.
If you have diabetes, take medication, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to a doctor or dietitian before cutting out milk. The list of allowed foods has other options. For precautions before you start, see ketogenic diet risks and precautions.
Sources
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, The Nutrition Source: Diet Review: Ketogenic Diet for Weight Loss
- TACO – Tabela Brasileira de Composição de Alimentos, 4ª edição revisada e ampliada (NEPA/Unicamp)
Mariana is passionate about a healthy lifestyle.
