Most Plant-Based Milks Don’t Equal Cow’s Milk for Key Nutrients
Plant-based milks are popular alternatives to cow’s milk, and more and more of these products are being produced. A study presented at the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition (July 2023) evaluated how the nutritional content of plant-based milks compares to that of cow’s milk. Researchers examined 233 plant-based milk products from 23 manufacturers. Almost two-thirds of the products were made from almonds, oats or soy. Just 28 (12%) contained comparable or greater amounts of calcium, vitamin D and protein. Most of the plant-based milk alternatives were fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Only 38 (16%) of the milk alternatives had a protein level that equaled or was greater than that of cow’s milk—8 grams per 8 ounces. Consumers should check the labels of plant-based milks for calcium, vitamin D and protein.
