Are Milk Alternatives Better for You?

One propellant of this growth is the perception that milk alternatives are “better” than the original product. But the burning question is, does this hold true? And more specifically, how do we measure that? The answer is subjective and largely dependent on your individual needs and convictions.

This article will guide you in your decision-making process the next time a barista asks you what type of milk you want in your latte. We’ll pit 3 popular milk alternatives: soy, almond, and oat against “the contender”– fresh milk – based on factors such as nutritional benefits and environmental impact.

Fresh, whole cow’s milk

After condensed and evaporated milk, fresh milk– in particular, whole cow’s milk – stands at the top of Singapore’s milk and milk alternatives food chain, thanks to its rich, creamy flavour and nutritional value.

Nutritional benefits of fresh, whole cow’s milk

Fresh, whole cow’s milk is nutrient-rich. It contains:

• Protein. Cow’s milk is a complete protein source, providing all 9 essential amino acids needed for body growth, repair, and maintenance.
• Calcium. Cow’s milk is an excellent source of calcium, crucial for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signalling.
• Vitamin D. Adequate vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Cow’s milk is a good source of vitamin D, especially when fortified.
• Other nutrients. Cow’s milk also provides other essential nutrients. Including potassium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, and riboflavin, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Environmental impact of cow’s milk

This is where cow’s milk becomes contentious.

Cows produce large amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, during digestion. This accounts for about 6% of total greenhouse gas emissions globally. Additionally, cultivating dairy feed takes up vast amounts of land and water, leading to deforestation and water scarcity in some regions.

Soy milk

Soy milk is a plant-based, vegan alternative to แทงบอล UFABET ราคาดีที่สุด ไม่มีขั้นต่ำ cow’s milk and is a popular choice among those seeking lactose-free or dairy-free options.

Nutritional benefits of soy milk

Fortified soy milk’s nutritional benefits include:

• Protein. Soy milk contains approximately 7 – 10g of protein per 250ml, making it a plant-based alternative with a protein content comparable to cow’s milk.
• Low saturated fat. Soy milk is naturally low in saturated fat. A diet low in total fat and saturated fat can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Essential nutrients. Soy milk is often fortified with essential nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, ensuring adequate nutrient intake for those avoiding cow’s milk. That said, certain popular soy milk brands may lack fortified vitamin B12. It is crucial to examine nutritional labels to identify products with fortified vitamins and minerals.
• Cholesterol-free. Soy milk is naturally cholesterol-free, making it suitable for individuals with high cholesterol levels or those at risk of heart disease.