Kathrine Frich
Children between one and five should drink whole or semi-skimmed cows’ milk.
Children between one and five should drink whole or semi-skimmed cows’ milk.
Hands Down the Best
A long-running debate has finally been settled, at least when it comes to kids.
According to UK health experts, cows’ milk is hands-down better for babies and young children than any plant-based alternative currently on the market.
Plant Milks on the Rise
Soya, oat, and almond drinks have exploded in popularity, especially among families following vegan or dairy-free lifestyles.
But new guidance warns that for children under five, these trendy milk alternatives may come with real nutritional risks.
Stick to Cow’s Milk for Ages 1 to 5
Children between one and five should drink whole or semi-skimmed cows’ milk if they consume animal products.
That’s the clear recommendation from nutrition experts on two top UK scientific committees advising the government.
Not a Straight Swap
The report stresses that no plant-based drink is nutritionally equal to cows’ milk.
While fortified options can help, many products lack vital nutrients like calcium, iodine, and vitamin B12, especially if they’re not specifically enriched.
Vegan Kids Need Extra Care
For vegan children, the safest plant-based option is unsweetened fortified soya milk, thanks to its higher protein content.
But experts warn: don’t rely on soya alone.
A varied diet is essential to avoid too much of a compound called isoflavones, which can build up in young children.
More Sugar Than You Think
Surprisingly, people who drink plant-based milks may end up consuming more added sugar than those drinking dairy.
That’s especially true for sweetened versions, which the report says should be avoided in toddler diets.
Fortified Milks Can Help
Plant-based milks that are fortified with vitamin A, B12, D, riboflavin, calcium, and iodine can reduce the nutritional gap.
Still, researchers say even the best options don’t fully match the benefits of dairy, especially for growing bodies.
Toddler Milks is Not Necessary
The report takes aim at heavily marketed “growing up” milks and plant-based toddler formulas, calling them unnecessary.
There’s no nutritional need for special drinks targeted at children aged one to three, just solid food and the right type of milk.
