Are Plant-Based Milks As Healthy as You Think? New Study Challenges Assumptions

December 22, 2024 | Source: Sci Tech Daily | by University of Copenhagen

Over the past decade, the global market for plant-based beverages has experienced significant growth. Drinks made from oats, almonds, soy, and rice have become popular substitutes for cow’s milk, particularly in coffee and oatmeal.

One key factor driving the demand for plant-based beverages is their typically lower climate footprint compared to cow’s milk. However, a new study by the University of Copenhagen, in collaboration with the University of Brescia in Italy, reveals that these alternatives may not necessarily be healthier than cow’s milk—a common misconception among consumers.

In the study, researchers examined how chemical reactions during processing affect the nutritional quality of ten different plant-based drinks, comparing them with cow’s milk.