**UK Experts Warn Plant-Based Milks Not a Complete Nutritional Substitute for Dairy, Particularly for Young Children**
A leading group of nutritional specialists in the United Kingdom have raised concerns regarding the adequacy of plant-based milks as a replacement for traditional dairy, particularly for children between the ages of one and five. This follows the publication of a comprehensive report by the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) and the Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (Cot).
Interest in alternatives such as soya, oat, and almond milk has surged across the UK in recent years, in part due to shifts towards plant-based diets and increasing awareness of lactose intolerance and environmental issues linked to dairy farming. Despite this trend, the expert panel concluded that “no plant-based milk available in the UK is nutritionally equivalent to cows’ milk”, underlining significant considerations for consumers.
The experts’ report, commissioned to assess the benefits and potential risks associated with non-dairy milk substitutes, highlighted that children under five were particularly at risk if their diets relied exclusively on plant-based drinks. According to the findings, dependence on these beverages could lead to inadequate consumption of several crucial micronutrients, which might affect development and long-term health.
Additionally, the report touched on possible health drawbacks linked to certain plant-based products. Some drinks, especially those which are sweetened and not fortified, may contribute to higher intakes of free sugars. This raises broader questions around childhood health, particularly in relation to rising rates of obesity and dental issues.
Nonetheless, the panel pointed out that not all plant-based milks pose the same level of risk. When consumers choose unsweetened and fortified versions – those enriched with nutrients such as vitamin A, riboflavin, vitamin B12, calcium, iodine, and vitamin D to levels similar to cows’ milk – some of the nutritional deficits may be alleviated. Fortified options also generally contain fewer calories and saturated fats, and typically offer more fibre and vitamin D, outcomes which are broadly beneficial for most individuals.
A specific concern, however, was identified for vegan children under five who heavily consume soya-based drinks, as this could lead to excessive intake of naturally occurring isoflavones. Experts suggest this risk can be partially reduced by ensuring these children receive protein from a variety of sources rather than relying solely on soya-based products. Soya milk was noted to have higher protein levels than almond or oat milks, making it a more suitable alternative when plant-based options are required, though diversity in the diet remains crucial.
The expert group has put forward several recommendations based on their findings. For children aged one to five who consume animal products, full-fat or semi-skimmed cows’ milk remains the preferable choice. Unsweetened and fortified plant-based drinks are considered an “acceptable alternative” only when necessary, but fortified soya milk is preferred for vegan children in this age group.
Furthermore, the report advises against the need for drinks specifically marketed for toddlers, such as “growing up” or “follow-on” formulas, whether dairy or plant-based, suggesting instead that nutrition should be tailored to ensure adequate intake from a range of suitable foods and drinks.
For those over five, including adults, the panel found that fortified and unsweetened plant-based milks – almond, oat, and soya – can be suitable alternatives, provided consumers remain aware of their nutritional profile and make choices in the context of a varied diet.
In summary, the SACN and Cot’s report offers a nuanced view: while plant-based milks can form part of a healthy diet, especially when fortified and unsweetened, they are not direct replacements for dairy, particularly in the diets of young children. They stress that careful consideration and, where necessary, dietary advice are essential for those wishing to avoid cows’ milk to ensure all nutritional needs are met, especially during key stages of growth and development.
The increasing popularity of plant-based diets has brought considerable change to consumer habits, but as this study indicates, making informed choices about food and drink is more important than ever – especially when it concerns the youngest and most vulnerable populations.