Raise a Glass to World Plant Milk Day

Whether you pour it over your morning cereal, froth it for a cappuccino or use it to add creaminess to a curry, plant milk has become a familiar sight in British kitchens.

World Plant Milk Day, celebrated annually on 22 August, is an opportunity to explore the growing range of dairy-free drinks now available. It is not about telling everyone to abandon traditional milk; it is simply an invitation to try something different and discover which plant-based option best suits your tastes.

The choice has expanded enormously. Oat milk is a favourite among coffee drinkers because of its naturally creamy texture, while soya milk is a versatile all-rounder that works well in drinks, sauces and baking. Almond milk has a lighter, gently nutty flavour, coconut milk brings a tropical touch, and alternatives made from peas, cashews, hazelnuts, rice and hemp offer even more variety.

Why not mark World Plant Milk Day with a taste test? Pick up two or three different cartons and compare them in tea, coffee or cereal. You might also try using plant milk to make pancakes, porridge, smoothies, custard, rice pudding or a comforting mug of hot chocolate.

When shopping, remember that plant milks can differ considerably in taste and nutritional content. If you are using one as a regular replacement for cows’ milk, check the label for calcium, iodine, vitamin B12, riboflavin and vitamin A. Recent UK government guidance recommends choosing products fortified with these nutrients at levels comparable with semi-skimmed cows’ milk.

Protein levels vary too. Soya and pea drinks tend to contain more protein than many oat, almond or rice varieties. Unsweetened products can be a good choice if you want to avoid unnecessary added sugar, while shaking the carton before pouring helps redistribute nutrients that may have settled.

Parents considering plant-based drinks for babies or young children should seek appropriate health advice, as their nutritional needs are particularly important and not every product is suitable.

World Plant Milk Day is also a useful reminder that food choices do not have to be all or nothing. You could retain dairy milk for some purposes while enjoying oat milk in coffee or coconut milk in cooking.

So, on 22 August, raise a glass to experimentation. You may discover a new favourite, and give your breakfasts, bakes and hot drinks a delicious little shake-up in the process.