People are getting confused these days by seeing different types of milk. Earlier, only cow’s milk and some of its variants were available in the market. However, there are various dairy- free alternatives available in the market today, such as oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, etc. Among these, oat milk is becoming particularly popular, and is considered a healthier and more environmentally friendly option.
The production and consumption of oat milk has been increasing rapidly in the last few years. In 2023, the global oat milk industry was valued at more than $1.5 billion. According to market research firm Future Market Insights, this value is likely to increase to $5.6 billion over the next decade. There are a few reasons why people are turning to oat milk.
Health benefits
Since oat milk is a dairy- free option, it does not contain lactose. So it is good for people with lactose intolerance. In addition, oat milk is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and lowers cholesterol. Some oat milk bars contain 2-3 grams of fiber per glass, which is beneficial for gut health. However, sugar watchers should be wary of sweetened oat milk, as some bars can contain up to 12 grams of added sugar.
Differences in nutrients
Both oat milk and cow’s milk are sources of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. However, cow’s milk is richer in nutrients. Oat milk is low in protein — a cup contains about 3 grams of protein, while cow’s milk contains 8 grams of protein. Because of this, cow’s milk may be better for people looking for more protein.
Positive impact on the environment
The environment is also an important reason behind the rise in popularity of oat milk. The production of oat milk requires less water. For example, oat milk requires less water than almond milk. In addition, the production of oat milk emits less greenhouse gases than cow’s milk. Hence, oat milk is being looked at as a dairy- free alternative with less impact on the environment.
Need to choose the right option
According to dietitians, the choice of ‘healthy’ food depends on individual needs. If a person is lactose intolerant or has trouble digesting dairy products, oat milk can be a good option for them. If more protein, calcium, and vitamin D are desired, cow’s milk is a good choice.
There are differences between oat milk and cow’s milk in terms of nutrients and environmental impact. So everyone should choose the right option according to their needs. As the consumption of oat milk continues to increase, it is possible to develop more varieties and improve its nutritional value in the future, so that more healthy and environmentally friendly options are available to people.