The majority of our population depends on milk for nourishment. It has long been touted as a rich source of calcium, protein, and other vital nutrients, but there are numerous challenges associated with it. Antibiotics and hormones are pumped into animals to increase and induce milk production, and milk is also prolifically being adulterated with detergent, caustic soda, white paint, and other harmful substances.
Moreover, with 70-80 percent of population being lactose intolerant, there is a need to find healthier way to nourish the human beings.
The animals used for milk production are treated like units in a factory, instead of the sentient beings that they are. Furthermore, the industrialization of animal agriculture has been frequently criticized for its negative ethical, environmental, and social impact.
Eliminating the negatives that come with animal-based milk, plant-based or vegan milk are derived from cereals, nuts, legumes, and other plants. These alternate milk varieties are receiving increasing attention from health-conscious consumers who are looking for a more natural, healthy, humane and yet nutritionally rich lifestyle. With growing consumer awareness, increasing market share, and continuous innovation, plant-based milk are poised to create a major storm in the dairy industry.
Some plant-based milk also offers unique health-promoting components. Oat Milk contains beta-glucan, which is well studied for its cholesterol-reducing properties. And soy milk contains higher amounts of antioxidants compared to animal milk. Plant-based milk companies are also fortifying their milk with nutrients like calcium in order to provide consumers with wholesome nourishment.
Plant-based milk can be made from various sources. While soy milk has been the most popular plant-based milk so far, a wide range of other milk has been studied to substitute dairy. Different kinds of nut-based milk like almond and hazelnut; cereal based milk such as rice and oats; coconut milk, and more, are being appreciated.
According to one survey, the plant-based milk sales have shot up by 9 percent, whereas conventional or animal-based milk sales are down by 6 percent. Plant-based milk are also being widely used as a functional replacement for use in bakery products and specialty beverages.
