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 study evaluated the nutritional composition and labelling accuracy of plant-based milk alternatives (soy, almond, oat, rice, coconut) relative to cow milk in South African retail markets. Cow milk demonstrated significantly higher protein density and bioavailable minerals critical for bone health (calcium, phosphorus, zinc), whereas plant-based alternatives showed elevated iron, copper, and manganese but with potential bioavailability constraints from antinutrients. The research identified non-compliance in nutrient labelling for key minerals and fibre content, with implications for consumer information 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 composition (protein, fat, carbohydrate, ash, moisture); mineral content (calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, copper, manganese); labelling compliance for calcium and dietary fibre

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 compliance of nutrient labelling with regulatory requirements.

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