ISLAMABAD: As the world becomes more health-conscious, people are opting for non-dairy milk options, and now the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved that these options can be officially referred to as “milk.”
However, with so many different types of milk available, choosing the right one for your health can be confusing.
Dairy milk is a popular choice, but there are also plant-based options like soy, oat, almond, and coconut milk.
Each type of milk has its own nutritional value, fat content, and taste, and the choice ultimately depends on the individual’s preferences and intended use.
For example, oat milk is popular for its creamy texture and is often used in coffee, while flavoured milk is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy its taste.
Other non-dairy milk options include pistachio, macadamia, cashew, hemp, flaxseed, rice, pea, and banana milk.
Calories, fat, protein, calcium and cholesterol in Milk
According to a CBS News report, a one-cup serving (240 ml) of dairy milk (2%) contains 122 calories, 4.66 grams of total fat, 8.23 grams of protein, 309 mg of calcium, 95.6 mg of sodium, and 19.6 mg of cholesterol.
Soy milk, on the other hand, contains 110 calories, 4.51 grams of total fat, 7.99 grams of protein, 451 mg of calcium, 96 mg of sodium, and 0 mg of cholesterol.
Oat milk contains 120 calories, 4.99 grams of total fat, 3 grams of protein, 350 mg of calcium, 101 mg of sodium, and 0 mg of cholesterol, while almond milk contains only 50.4 calories, 1.99 grams of total fat, 1.01 grams of protein, 130 mg of calcium, 149 mg of sodium, and 0 mg of cholesterol.
Coconut milk contains 75.6 calories, 5.08 grams of total fat, 0.512 grams of protein, 459 mg of calcium, 46.4 mg of sodium, and 0 mg of cholesterol.
Aside from taste and nutritional value, other factors, such as allergies and the environmental impact of milk production, can also play a role in choosing a milk alternative.
For those with nut or soy allergies, plant-based milk is a go-to option, while those on a vegan diet may prefer non-dairy options. In terms of environmental impact, rice, almond, soy, and oat milk are all better than cow milk.
There are many different types of milk to choose from, and the choice depends on individual preferences and needs. However, it is important to note that all milk options should be consumed in moderation, and unnecessary sugars should be avoided.
The FDA’s decision to allow non-dairy options to be referred to as “milk” will make it easier for all the consumers to make informed decisions about their milk choices.
