A Comparative Study of Consumption of Animal Milk and Plant Based Milk among Young Adults

Abstract

Milk is a nutrient dense food that is recognized as nature's most complete meal which continues to play a significant role in people's diets all across the world. The most commonly consumed animal milks are cow's milk, goat's milk, and buffalo's milk however, people are becoming more aware of the darker aspects of dairy, such as the cruelty it inflicts on animals, the environmental damage, and the health risks. As a result of these factors, plant milk consumption has increased in recent years. These beverages are preferred by those who have a cow's milk allergy, lactose intolerance, environmental concerns, hypercholesterolemia, calorie concerns, or are adopting new lifestyles such as veganism. Even with the growing economic success of plant milk beverages, no research has been done to compare the consumer’s perception, awareness, and health issues of animal milk to those of plant milk among young adults in India, and therefore, further investigation is needed. Because young adults are still growing, providing accurate milk information will encourage them to increase their milk consumption. As a result, the focus of this study will be on Indian young adults’ opinions, awareness, and health concerns surrounding animal and plant milk.