The Great Milk Showdown: Plant-Based vs. Dairy

Plant-based milk is having its moment in the spotlight, but how does it stack up against traditional dairy in terms of nutrition? A recent study reveals that while plant-based options are popular, they often fall short of meeting proposed nutrition standards.

Here’s the scoop: plant-based milks like oat, soy, almond, and pea are excellent choices, especially for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. They’re not dangerous or inherently bad. However, they generally don’t offer the same nutritional benefits as cow’s milk.

The study, which reviewed nearly every plant-based milk out there, found that only 20% of these options meet the recommended protein levels, and just 7% meet the “best in class” criteria for both protein and sugar content.

But don’t worry—there’s an easy fix. If you’re opting for plant-based milk for its nutritional value rather than just its flavor, choose varieties with lower sugar (aim for under 10 grams) and boost the protein content by adding a scoop of plant-based protein powder. This way, you can enhance the nutritional profile of your plant-based milk and make it a more balanced choice compared to cow’s milk.