WORLD PLANT MILK DAY
Every year on August 22nd, World Plant Milk Day encourages people to consume milk derived from plants. It’s also a day to learn more about the nutritional value of plant milk.
It’s common knowledge that milk comes from cows, especially those black and white ones. But humans drink milk that comes from other animals as well. This includes goat milk, as well as milk that comes from buffalos, camels, sheep, yaks, and horses. But did you know that milk also comes from plants? Some of the most common types of plant milk include:
- Almond
- Cashew
- Coconut
- Hemp
- Oat
- Soy
- Quinoa
- Flaxseed
Years ago, plant milk was nearly unheard of. Now, however, more and more people are making the switch from animal to plant milk. According to a recent study, 38 percent of households surveyed drink plant-based milk.
Why are people making the switch? One reason is that animal milk contains a protein called lactose. Some people can’t tolerate lactose in their diet. Symptoms associated with lactose intolerance include abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, and indigestion. About 68 percent of the world’s population is lactose intolerant. Because these people can’t consume animal milk, they miss out on a great source of calcium. This essential mineral strengthens the bones, keeps teeth healthy, and allows blood to clot.
Plant milk, on the other hand, doesn’t contain lactose. It does, however still contain calcium. In fact, some types of plant milk is higher in calcium than animal milk! Plant milk also contains less fat, less sugar, and more Vitamin D than animal milk. Many plant milk consumers think it tastes just as good as animal milk. Plus, plant milk is delicious in smoothies, cereal, and most recipes that call for milk.
HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldPlantMilkDay
On this day milk consumers are encouraged to go dairy-free. They are also encouraged to learn more about the many different types of plant milk. Here are some more ways to participate:
- Make your own plant milk.
- Substitute plant milk in a recipe that calls for regular milk and see how it tastes.
- Learn more about the health benefits of plant milk.
- Survey your friends and family about their favorite kind of milk.
- Find ways to increase your calcium intake.
Spread awareness for this day on social media with #WorldPlantMilkDay.
WORLD PLANT MILK DAY HISTORY
Robbie Lockie, the cofounder of Plant Based News, created World Plant Milk Day in 2017. His goal was to help accelerate the switch from animal to plant milk.
