Mineral profile of cow milk and plant-based milk alternatives

Abstract

Some consumers are replacing cow milk by plant-based milk alternatives (PBMA); however, the current knowledge regarding the mineral profile of PBMA is limited. This study aimed to characterize the mineral profile of commercial milk (n = 80) and PBMA types (n = 60; soya, rice, oat, almond, coconut, and hazelnut) by inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy, along with a modification of the Sandell-Kolthoff reaction (iodine determination). A single fixed-effect statistical model considering the type of beverage as an independent variable was applied. Soya PBMA presented higher contents of Ca, Mg, Cu, and Mg than commercial milk, and similar contents of K and P. In contrast, commercial milk had higher contents of S, Zn, and Se, with the latter being below the limit of quantification (10 µg/kg) in all PBMA types. Both almond and hazelnut PBMA displayed I contents similar to those of commercial milk. In terms of mineral ratios, PBMA types presented a higher Ca/P compared with commercial milk, being aligned with dietary guidelines, whereas commercial milk and soya PBMA showing lower Na/K values, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. Due to their variability, it is difficult to say with certainty that PBMA can reliably substitute milk as a source of minerals.