Dairy & eggs

Milk shakes, thick vanilla

FDC 170884fl oz (28 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 14 · -21 vs Dairy & eggs median

A thick vanilla milkshake scores 14 of 100, a Low band, ranking 53rd of 60 dairy and egg foods. Calcium reaches 11% DV, a modest but real contribution from the dairy base.

Blended and served cold as a dessert drink rather than an everyday beverage, each fluid ounce, about 28 grams, adds up quickly in a large cup. It is high in sugars at 17.8 g per 100 g, and among dairy and egg foods, a chocolate and nut covered ice cream bar scores higher for those weighing similar indulgent options.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around milk shakes, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 3.9 g · 14%Carb 17.8 g · 63%Fat 3 g · 24%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories112 kcal6%
Total fat3 g4%
Saturated fat1.9 g9%
Cholesterol12 mg4%
Sodium95 mg4%
Carbohydrate18 g6%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars18 g
Protein3.9 g8%
Potassium183 mg4%
Calcium146 mg11%
Iron0.1 mg1%
Magnesium12 mg3%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A25 µg3%
Vitamin E0.05 mg0%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 170884

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Calcium11% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the dairy & eggs median

Nutrient density14 vs 35 median
Protein / 100 g3.9 vs 9 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g95 vs 162 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Ice cream bar, covered with chocolate and nutsDensity 16 vs 14Cheese spread, cream cheese baseDensity 16 vs 14Cream substitute, powderedDensity 16 vs 14

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

A thick vanilla milkshake is a blended cold dairy drink made from milk and vanilla ice cream or flavoring, churned until thick enough to need a wide straw or spoon. It is a diner classic, often topped with whipped cream and served alongside burgers and fries, and it is the base for countless variations, from malted milkshakes to fruit-blended versions with strawberry or banana added to the vanilla base. A scoop of extra ice cream, a swirl of syrup, or crushed cookies stirred in just before serving thickens it further and adds flavor.

Milkshakes are best made fresh and drunk right away, since they separate and lose their thick texture the longer they sit; keep the milk and ice cream refrigerated or frozen until blending. Per 100 grams (a fluid ounce serving is 28 grams), it contributes 11 percent of the daily value for calcium alongside 17.8 grams of sugar, 17.8 grams of carbohydrate, and 3.86 grams of protein, positioning it as a treat-sized dairy dessert to enjoy occasionally rather than an everyday drink or a substitute for a glass of milk, with 3.03 grams of fat per 100 grams keeping it lighter than a bowl of ice cream on its own.

Frequently asked questions about milk shakes

How many calories are in a thick vanilla milkshake?

A thick vanilla milkshake has 112 calories per 100 grams, or about 112 calories per fluid ounce.

Does a vanilla milkshake provide calcium?

Yes, it provides 11 percent of the daily value for calcium per 100 grams, its standout nutrient.

How should a milkshake be prepared?

It is blended fresh from milk and vanilla ice cream and best served immediately, since it separates and thins out if left to sit.

View the USDA source record