The plant-based milk industry has grown overnight, with Australian beverage companies providing consumers with many new options and brands. And the demand for alternatives to dairy milk has become a rapidly increasing consumer trend. With more choices available today than a few years back, shelves are packed to the brim with so much to offer. Soy, oat, nut, rice and coconut milk are quickly becoming the go-to in many consumers’ shopping baskets.
But even with increasing demand, plant-based milk still faces speculation. The question remains: Is plant-based milk healthier?
How Healthy Are They?
Although the demand is indicative of consumers who not only prefer plant-based milk but also trust that it is the better choice for their bodies, the question is still popular with the remaining market. But consumers don’t want to read through pages of research to verify if plant-based milk is indeed healthier than traditional dairy milk. Instead, we want a simplified yes or no answer.
Dairy has long benefitted from the notion that it is the ultimate calcium source and packed with protein, vitamins A and B12, riboflavin, potassium, magnesium and zinc. It is a contender against plant-based milk, which has suffered the misconception that they are nutritionally deficient. But that should not deter you from comparing the two because plant-based milk these days is fortified with calcium and other nutrients. Plant-based milk is also beneficial in weight management due to its low-calorie characteristics.
Plant-based milk serves as a solution for those allergic to dairy or suffer from intolerances. But it also allows consumers to make more sustainable buying decisions, ensuring that their purchases are impacting the planet in a positive manner. Furthermore, some consumers choose plant-based because it is an ethical choice. Whereas some dairy practices exploit animals for milk production, plant-based milk operations tend to lean towards being more ethical.
How Does This Impact You?
It can be a complex answer to a seemingly simple question. Although the decision of whether plant-based milk is healthier truly comes down to the consumer. To a person suffering from dairy allergies, it provides relief and safe alternatives. To those with intolerances, a better quality of life. And to those who choose plant-based because of ethical or environmental reasons, peace of mind.
To buy healthier milk, you need to consider your body’s needs, values and lifestyle. In today’s world, deficiencies in the body are becoming an alarmingly present problem and many of us require supplements to fill the gaps. Hence, whether you choose dairy or plant-based milk, you will need to supplement regardless.
How To Shop Plant-Based
Chances are, before moving over to plant-based milk, you rarely ever examined labels on your dairy milk. With so much information disseminated today, it’s hard to know what to believe or even trust. Moreso, what to purchase to consume that will be nutritionally beneficial.
‘Unsweetened’ is a common phrase you will find on plant-based milk. This means that essentially your milk of choice can be used in almost any drink or dish, with no added sugar. It can be beneficial to those conscious of their sugar intake as well as those who prefer subtle tastes rather than overpowering sweetness. Fat is another valuable ingredient to pay attention to. Fat percentages can provide consumers with more insight into how much they are consuming, assist with maintaining their weight or reaching new weight goals, and can confirm any additives.
The rule of thumb generally is that fewer ingredients used indicate a more wholesome product, which is good for you. We will always encourage and advocate for our customers to read labels thoroughly, reach out to brands for further clarification and ensure that they understand what they are consuming.
How Can You Use Plant-Based Milk Every Day?
When consumers first convert to plant-based milk, they may become frazzled with the idea of what they can actually do with their choice. And the answer is, well, everything! Plant-based milk is ideal for your coffee, smoothies and cereals. But it can just as easily be combined into your baking and cooking. Plant-based milks are a good alternative to use in pancakes, pasta sauces and even rich curries. They can add layers of flavour, enhance your dish and make for fuss-free eating, especially if you have dairy intolerant guests.
Plant-based milk has a high possibility of becoming the milk of the future. It provides solutions to many ethical and environmental conundrums and is equally delicious and easy to use. Consumers also have more choices than ever, and we encourage first-timers to taste these alternatives before disregarding their health and lifestyle benefits.
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