Food - Drink
Oat Milk Vs Dairy Milk: What's The Difference?
By ANNA STAROPOLI
Alternatives to dairy milk have become popular as many are touted for being more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Oat milk is a popular choice for a dairy milk alternative, but what are the differences between this and traditional milk from a cow?
Dairy milk is more nutritious than oat milk, providing 13 nutrients, including calcium and protein. Though, not all benefits are natural, as dairy milk is fortified with vitamin D, meaning it’s not naturally occurring in the milk’s composition.
Similarly, additions to oat milk, like sweeteners, also render it less nutritious, but oat milk can be easily made at home, allowing you to control any additives. However, it’s unclear whether oat milk retains the benefits found in oats, though it has fewer calories than dairy milk.
While both milk types have benefits, Julie Holbrook, MS, RDN, LDN, and outpatient dietitian at Northwestern Medicine says, "Many people think plant-based milk alternatives like oat milk are a healthier option than cow's milk," but "There are pros and cons to both based on your nutritional needs and personal preferences."