Cholesterol Check at the Grocery Store

Reading the label, this whole milk ricotta keeps it simple: whey, milk, acetic acid, and a bit of salt. With only 3g sugar per 100g, it's lightly savory and milky, the kind of soft, slightly grainy curd that melts into lasagna or spreads nicely on toast. I grabbed a tub for a quick Sunday brunch frittata, and the texture felt rich without being heavy. It's a straightforward ingredient list that makes sense for a cheese, though the salt can sneak up if you're layering it in already seasoned dishes. If you're watching sodium, you may want to use a lighter hand.

This 2% milk is fortified with lactase enzyme, which may help if regular milk is uncomfortable for some people. The label shows 5g sugar per 100g (naturally occurring), and the taste is familiar—mildly sweet, clean, and creamy without feeling heavy. I keep a carton at the office for morning cereal, and it pours smoothly with that classic dairy mouthfeel. It's a practical pick for everyday use, though the added vitamins and enzyme mean it's not the ultra-minimalist choice if you prefer just milk. If you're sensitive to lactose, it can be a convenient swap, but results vary by person.

The label is still updating, but chocolate milk typically carries more sugar than plain dairy, which may land around 9g per 100g depending on the final version. Expect a rich cocoa flavor with a smooth, comforting texture that feels like a treat, especially when poured cold over ice. I tucked a bottle in a kid's lunchbox for a busy school day, and it was an easy way to add some calories and comfort. Since the ingredients aren't finalized, I can't speak to specific additives or sweeteners, so if you're sensitive to those, you may want to check back once the label is complete.

Muscle milk lists protein sources like whey concentrate, calcium sodium caseinate, and milk protein isolate, with 5g sugar per 100g. The taste tends to be sweetened and creamy, with a thicker, shake-like texture that can feel a bit chalky depending on mixing. I tossed one in my gym bag after a workout, and it was convenient for a quick protein boost without needing to prep anything. The trade-off is the ingredient complexity—there's added fiber and a non-dairy creamer that some people may not prefer. If you want ultra-clean ingredients, this might feel more processed than you'd like.

This unsweetened almond milk is just filtered water and almonds, with 0g sugar per 100g. The flavor is nutty and very light, with a thin, watery texture that works well in smoothies or coffee but won't mimic dairy's richness. I used it in a quick overnight oats jar for a busy morning, and it kept things refreshing without adding sweetness. The trade-off is the lack of protein compared to dairy, so it may not be as filling on its own. If you're craving creamy, this might feel too thin, though it's a clean, simple option for everyday use.