What does nonfat mean?
Nonfat is an adjective describing food or drink that contains no fat, or practically none. Its most familiar use is with dairy products, especially milk, where people commonly choose nonfat over whole milk to reduce their intake of dietary fat. In the United States, “nonfat” is a regulated labeling term: a product bearing that designation generally must contain less than 0.5 percent milkfat per serving. Although the word suggests the complete absence of fat, ordinary food products may contain trace amounts, subject to labeling rules. The term is also used as a noun for a fat-free or nearly fat-free product, particularly a serving of nonfat milk. British speakers more often describe such milk as “skimmed,” although “nonfat” is also understood there. Compared with “low-fat,” “nonfat” makes a stronger claim and is not simply another way of saying that a product has been reduced in fat.
Containing no fat, or containing so little fat that it qualifies for a nonfat or fat-free food designation.
"The recipe calls for nonfat milk and plain yogurt."
Common in North American food labeling; British English often prefers “skimmed” for milk.
A product, especially milk or a dairy product, that contains virtually no fat.
"She ordered a nonfat with her coffee."
As a noun, it is especially associated with American usage and commonly refers to nonfat milk.
In US food labeling, a product labeled nonfat generally contains less than 0.5 percent milkfat per serving, making it one of the strictest fat-content claims on a label.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nonfat come from?
“Nonfat” is a modern compound formed in the 20th century from the Latin-derived prefix “non-,” meaning “not,” and the English word “fat.” “Fat” comes from Old English fǣtt, related to words in several Germanic languages, including German fett and Dutch vet. The prefix conveys negation or absence, producing a specialized term that became especially widespread in food labeling and dairy marketing.
How nonfat is actually used
The term is especially common in North American food labeling and conversation. British English more often uses “skimmed” or “skimmed milk.” Regulatory definitions of “nonfat” and “fat-free” vary by jurisdiction, but both generally require a very low fat content rather than absolutely zero fat.
Easily confused with nonfat
Nonfat indicates that a product contains virtually no fat, whereas low-fat indicates that it contains less fat than a standard or comparable product but may still contain some.