Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives May Increase Risk of Micronutrient Deficiencies Without Fortification

Plant-based milk and dairy alternatives have become increasingly popular among people following vegan diets, those with lactose intolerance and consumers seeking alternatives to conventional dairy products.

However, dairy products provide important nutrients, including iodine, calcium, vitamin B12 and riboflavin. Some plant-based alternatives are fortified with these nutrients, while others contain considerably lower amounts.

The researchers examined 289 plant-based products available in the UK. They reported that 61% contained added calcium, 46% contained vitamin B12, only 19% were fortified with riboflavin and just 12% contained added iodine.

The researchers also modelled the potential nutritional effects of replacing dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Their findings suggested that iodine intake could decrease substantially, particularly among teenage girls and women of childbearing age.

Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production and normal brain development. Insufficient intake can therefore be particularly concerning during pregnancy and childhood.

The study does not mean that plant-based diets are automatically unhealthy. Instead, it highlights the importance of choosing appropriately fortified products and maintaining a balanced diet that supplies essential nutrients.