I bought a lactose-free milk that is "calcium-fortified" and provides 50% of the Daily Value for calcium. Is that too much calcium?

Answer:

If you drink a cup (8 fl oz) or more of milk at a time, then, yes, this milk may provide you with too much calcium. The current Daily Value for calcium is 1,300 mg. Fifty percent of the Daily Value for calcium is 650 mg of calcium, and it's generally advised that you not consume more than 500 mg of calcium in a serving.

Be aware that the Daily Value for calcium was officially increased in 2016 from 1,000 mg to 1,300 mg, and that this DV is pegged to the group with the greatest requirement for calcium -- adolescents and teenagers, while younger children and adults need less (see daily requirements by age.) Also be aware that the FDA has given companies until 2020 to change their labels to reflect the new DV. So, if your brand is still using the old DV, then 50% is 500 mg -- right at the edge of being too much calcium in a serving; if you have the milk along with calcium-containing foods or supplements, you're still getting too much calcium at one time.

You're probably better off with a lactose-free milk that is not "calcium fortified," as a cup will naturally provide about 30% of the Daily Value for calcium (390 mg based on the new DV or 300 mg based on the old one), and that's fine.