Among the given nutrients, milk is a poor source of

Milk is widely recognized as a nutrient-dense food, providing essential macronutrients such as proteins (casein and whey) and carbohydrates in the form of lactose [t1][t2]. It is particularly valued as a primary source of calcium, which is critical for bone health and development [c2][t3]. However, milk is naturally a poor source of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and iron [t5]. While some fortified milk products may contain added vitamins, fresh bovine milk typically contains 0% of the daily value of Vitamin C per serving [t4]. In contrast, Vitamin C is predominantly found in citrus fruits and certain vegetables [t9]. Because milk lacks significant amounts of Vitamin C, iron, and copper, it is often noted that while milk is a 'complete food' for infants, it does not provide a balanced profile of these specific micronutrients for older children and adults [t5].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780443248207000365
2. [2] Science-Class VII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 6: Adolescence: A Stage of Growth and Change > 6.4.1 Meeting nutritional needs > p. 79
3. [3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7393990/
4. [4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814606008363