Consumer Alert: Are plant-based milks healthier?

Are nondairy milks the right option for people looking to get in shape for the new year? The answer has become less clear-cut as more plant-based milks have hit the market.

News 12 Staff

Jan 24, 2020, 7:01 PM

Updated 1,543 days ago

Share:

Are nondairy milks the right option for people looking to get in shape for the new year? The answer has become less clear-cut as more plant-based milks have hit the market.
"Consumers are very confused about the nutrition quality of different types of plant milks, and there are a lot out there," says Consumer Reports nutritionist Amy Keating.
Consumer Reports tested plant-based milks made from almonds, coconuts, oats and soy.
Studies found that soy milk came closest to cow's milk in terms of providing high-quality protein and nutrients. Almond milk, however, tested very low in protein.
Tests also found that coconut milk is low in protein and contains saturated fat. Oat milk was found to have some protein and fiber.
Consumer experts also advise those buying plant-based milks to check the label to look for one that's carrageenan-free. Carrageenan is a gum that can irritate the stomach. Other nondairy milks may contain phosphates, which some research has linked to kidney problems.
They also say that plant milks marked as "plain" or "original" could have added sugar. Those looking to avoid sugar should look for milks specifically labeled "unsweetened."
 


More from News 12
1:37
Police: 1 man dead, another in critical condition in Mott Haven shooting

Police: 1 man dead, another in critical condition in Mott Haven shooting

0:45
NYPD: Protesters along Brooklyn Bridge arrested for blocking traffic

NYPD: Protesters along Brooklyn Bridge arrested for blocking traffic

2:01
Spring warmth in full effect with sunshine, temps in the 70s through Tuesday for NYC

Spring warmth in full effect with sunshine, temps in the 70s through Tuesday for NYC

1:51
Seniors staying fit through free program in the Bronx

Seniors staying fit through free program in the Bronx

2:32
Community advocates rally and call for changes in aftermath of NYPD's decision in Kawaski Trawick case

Community advocates rally and call for changes in aftermath of NYPD's decision in Kawaski Trawick case

2:03
Black Maternal Health Week: Mother discusses how her pregnancy inspired her to become a doctor

Black Maternal Health Week: Mother discusses how her pregnancy inspired her to become a doctor

1:36
It’s Tax Day: Bronx accountant breaks down what you should know

It’s Tax Day: Bronx accountant breaks down what you should know

1:22
City announces Project Home program to combat domestic violence

City announces Project Home program to combat domestic violence

1:20
Scholar Athlete: Hunter Burgos

Scholar Athlete: Hunter Burgos

1:59
'I can't even use my bedroom.' Mott Haven resident details slew of problems plaguing her apartment

'I can't even use my bedroom.' Mott Haven resident details slew of problems plaguing her apartment

0:39
Police: 2 suspects wanted for stealing clothes at Foot Locker in Melrose

Police: 2 suspects wanted for stealing clothes at Foot Locker in Melrose

2:02
Plan to bring 4 new Metro-North stations in the Bronx to be discussed at public hearing

Plan to bring 4 new Metro-North stations in the Bronx to be discussed at public hearing

0:25
Police: Man who punched 9-year-old girl at Grand Central Terminal arrested

Police: Man who punched 9-year-old girl at Grand Central Terminal arrested

0:43
NYPD: Victims identified, arrest made in Fordham crash that killed 2

NYPD: Victims identified, arrest made in Fordham crash that killed 2

1:22
FDNY: Cement truck overturns on Cross Bronx Expressway entrance ramp in West Farms

FDNY: Cement truck overturns on Cross Bronx Expressway entrance ramp in West Farms

1:40
Demonstrators outside Kings Plaza Mall push for changes to immigration policy

Demonstrators outside Kings Plaza Mall push for changes to immigration policy

1:27
NYPD deploys resources to places of worship amid increased Middle East tensions

NYPD deploys resources to places of worship amid increased Middle East tensions

1:27
Lickety Split Ice Cream in City Island to mark 20 years in business

Lickety Split Ice Cream in City Island to mark 20 years in business

0:35
2 men arrested, accused in Fordham jewelry store armed robbery

2 men arrested, accused in Fordham jewelry store armed robbery

2:04
CDC: Most women do not get a mammogram because of financial difficulties

CDC: Most women do not get a mammogram because of financial difficulties