When can my baby drink cow's milk?

What the evidence says

In Canada, health authorities say you can start introducing whole cow's milk somewhere between 9 and 12 months of age, as long as your baby is already eating iron-rich solid foods. Health Canada advises using homogenized (3.25%) milk and keeping intake to no more than 750 mL a day, while the Canadian Paediatric Society suggests a slightly lower cap of 500 mL a day once your baby is over 12 months.

In the US, the CDC and AAP recommend waiting until exactly 12 months before offering whole cow's milk, since younger babies find it harder to digest and it lacks enough iron, vitamin E, and healthy fats for their needs. Before 12 months, cow's milk can also strain a baby's kidneys and slightly raise the risk of intestinal bleeding.

Once you do start, avoid skim or low-fat milk until your child is 2 years old, since babies need the fat for brain development. Also try to limit how much milk your toddler drinks day to day, since too much can crowd out solid foods and lead to iron deficiency.

If your baby has a milk allergy or you are unsure about formula alternatives, it's best to check with your doctor.