Translation guide
In Japanese, 'low-fat milk' is commonly referred to as 低脂肪乳 (ていしぼうにゅう) or 低脂肪牛乳 (ていしぼうぎゅうにゅう). These terms are used on product labels and in everyday conversation. Note that Japanese milk classification includes specific legal categories, so the exact term may vary depending on fat content.
To refer to milk with reduced fat content, typically around 1–2% milk fat, as commonly understood in English-speaking countries.
To understand or use the precise terms for milk products as defined by Japanese food labeling laws, which may differ from English 'low-fat milk'.
Avoid directly translating 'low-fat milk' as 低い脂肪の牛乳 or similar. Use the established terms 低脂肪乳 or 低脂肪牛乳.
When looking for low-fat milk in a Japanese supermarket, look for cartons labeled 低脂肪乳 or 低脂肪牛乳. The fat percentage is usually displayed prominently. Note that 'low-fat' in Japan (0.5–1.5%) is often lower than Western 'low-fat' (1–2%).
The most common and direct translation for 'low-fat milk'. It literally means 'low-fat milk' and is widely understood.
低脂肪乳を買ってきてください。
Please buy some low-fat milk.
この低脂肪乳はあっさりしていて飲みやすい。
This low-fat milk is light and easy to drink.
A slightly more formal or explicit term, literally 'low-fat cow's milk'. Often seen on product packaging.
低脂肪牛乳は普通の牛乳よりカロリーが低い。
Low-fat milk has fewer calories than regular milk.
In Japan, '低脂肪牛乳' legally refers to milk with fat content between 0.5% and 1.5%. This is the closest legal category to Western 'low-fat milk'.
日本の低脂肪牛乳は脂肪分が0.5%以上1.5%以下です。
Japanese low-fat milk has a fat content of 0.5% to 1.5%.
Legally defined as milk with less than 0.5% fat. Equivalent to 'non-fat' or 'skim milk' in English, but sometimes confused with 'low-fat'.
無脂肪牛乳は脂肪分が0.5%未満です。
Non-fat milk has less than 0.5% fat.
A broader category that includes processed milk drinks with added ingredients. Some 'low-fat' products may fall under this if they contain non-milk additives.
この製品は乳飲料に分類されます。
This product is classified as a milk beverage.