In recent years, dairy alternative have seen a huge surge in popularity. According to data from Nielsen, sales of non-dairy milks increased by 61% from 2016 to 2019. Almond milk alone saw a 250% jump in sales from 2011 to 2016. Dairy milk sales, on the other hand, declined 8% between 2012 and 2017. Multiple factors are driving this shift towards non-dairy options. Some people avoid dairy due to dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance, milk allergies, or a vegan lifestyle. Others choose plant milks for their lower environmental impact or perceived health benefits compared to cow's milk. As the has grown, more consumers are simply opting for variety in their milk choices as well. Popular Plant-Based Milk Alternatives Almond milk is the top-selling Dairy Alternative, appealing to many for its mild flavor and smooth texture. It provides optimal nutrition when fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients. Soy milk is another popular choice and is higher in protein than almond milk. Rice milk and oat milk are gentle options for those with nut or soy allergies. Coconut milk can be enjoyed in both sweetened canned forms or as a plant milk. Hemp milk is a newer entrant high in omega-3 fatty acids. Nutritional Comparisons No plant milk exactly replicates the nutritional profile of dairy milk. However, when fortified, many deliver benefits. On average, per cup: - Almond milk: 60 calories, 2g protein, 80mg calcium. Has high unsaturated fat content. - Soy milk: 120 calories, 8g protein, 300mg calcium. Provides all essential amino acids. - Rice milk: 110 calories, 1g protein, 45mg calcium. Low in calories and fat. - Oat milk: 130 calories, 3g protein, 250mg calcium. Has a creamy texture. - Cow's milk: 150 calories, 8g protein, 300mg calcium. Good source of vitamins A, D and riboflavin. When choosing a dairy alternative, look at the specific nutrients your diet requires. Fortified varieties provide key minerals many plant milks lack compared to dairy. Blended Options and Specialized Products For added nutrients or new flavors, some brands blend milks together. Califia Farms has cashew-almond and almondmilk blends, while So Delicious makes coconut-almond mixes. There are also lactose-free dairy milks produced by brands like Lactaid and Fairlife. For baking and coffee drinks, barista series milks from Silk and others have extra creaminess. Specialty non-dairy yogurts and ice creams expand the options even further. Sustainability and Ethics Beyond nutrition, many choose plant milks for their lower environmental impact versus dairy. Almond and soy milk in particular use significantly less water and land than cow's milk to produce. Some avoid dairy due to ethical concerns about dairy farming practices or objections to animal agriculture altogether. Plant milks allow those consumers nutritious milk alternatives that align with their values. Cost Considerations While prices vary regionally, dairy alternative generally cost more per gallon than conventional dairy milks. This is due to supply and demand factors as well as the added costs of nut or grain processing and calcium fortification. However, as the category continues growing, prices of popular plant milks like almonds are lowering to become increasingly competitive with dairy. Opting for store brands over name brands can also reduce the costs of both plant and dairy options. Increased Appeal in Cooking and Baking Once thought of mainly as a beverage, non-dairy milks are expanding into cooking and baking applications as people seek new recipes. Almond milk adds richness to risottos, oat milk creates creamy smoothies and porridges, while coconut milk brings flavor to curries and soups. Plant milk yogurts can be swapped for dairy in overnight oats. Many bakers are also adapting to use alternatives like almond or coconut milk in quick breads, muffins and pancakes. With experimentation, non-dairy milk options continue growing in versatility. As consumer demand and available options proliferate, dairy alternative are without question mainstream fixtures in the dairy case. With possibilities like blends, specialized products, and new uses, the doors of exploration and choice in non-dairy milks continue opening wider. As a nutrient-packed beverage or dairy substitute, plant milks provide welcome options for people following just about any diet.
About Author:
Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.
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