What’s plant milk, and how do you milk a plant?

Abstract

One of the ways that plants are distinct from mammals is that plants don’t have nipples. Despite this disadvantage, one can still get milk from a plant. Generally speaking, what’s called plant milk is a complex beverage made up of extracted plant proteins, fats, and sugars all mixed up into a drinkable package. And while animal milk—such as from a cow, goat, or sheep—is still what most people think of as milk, plant milks are gaining visibility. According to the Good Food Institute , plant milk sales in the US grew 4% from 2020 to 2021 , whereas dairy milk dropped 2%. Overall, plant-based milks slurped up $2.6 billion of US sales in 2021. A plethora of plant-based milks are available. According to the Good Food Institute, almond milk accounts for 59% of alternative milk sales; oat and soy milk are next in popularity. Other kinds include cashew, hemp, rice,