Comparative proximate analysis and nutrient labelling compliance of cow milk and plant-based milk alternatives: Implications for consumer choice and food policy.

Summary

This comparative analysis evaluated the nutritional composition of cow milk and five categories of plant-based milk alternatives in the South African retail market, with particular attention to mineral density and labelling compliance. Cow milk demonstrated significantly higher protein and bone-health mineral concentrations (calcium, phosphorus, zinc), whilst plant-based alternatives showed elevated iron, copper, and manganese levels—though bioavailability may be limited by antinutrient content. The study identified non-compliance in calcium and dietary fibre labelling across product categories, with implications for consumer choice and regulatory oversight.

Regional applicability

This study was conducted in South Africa and reflects that retail environment's product formulations and labelling practices. Whilst direct applicability to United Kingdom conditions is limited, the methodological approach and findings on nutritional differences between milk types may inform UK food composition databases and labelling policy; however, UK plant-based alternatives often have different fortification profiles and regulatory compliance requirements under retained EU/domestic labelling legislation.

Key measures

Proximate analysis (protein, fat, carbohydrates, ash, moisture); mineral content (calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, copper, manganese); nutrient labelling accuracy for calcium and dietary fibre; statistical significance testing (p < 0.05)

Outcomes reported

The study compared proximate and mineral composition of 60 plant-based milk alternative samples (soy, almond, oat, rice, coconut) and 39 cow milk samples available in South African retail markets. It assessed nutrient labelling compliance and bioavailability of key nutrients across product categories.

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