The U.S. dairy milk market has experienced a downturn in recent years, while the popularity of plant-based alternatives continues to surge. According to Mintel data, dairy milk sales plummeted by 7.8% in 2015 alone, whereas sales of plant-based options have soared. Although soy milk remains the leading plant milk alternative, it faced a staggering 57% drop in U.S. sales in 2015. In contrast, almond milk sales have skyrocketed, growing 14 times since 2008.
While the sales figures for plant-based milk alternatives are still relatively modest compared to dairy milk—amounting to $1.9 billion versus $17.8 billion—recent Mintel research found that 69% of consumers believe non-dairy milks are healthy for children, compared to just 62% who feel the same about dairy milk. However, this study also indicates that dairy milk may actually be the better choice for kids, particularly regarding protein content. In general, many U.S. children do not consume enough calcium-rich foods. A significant study revealed that only 2- and 3-year-olds met nutritional recommendations for dairy, primarily through whole milk consumption, while calcium and dairy intake were deemed inadequate for children aged 4 to 18.
In response to the decline, the dairy industry is taking proactive measures. They are promoting protein-enhanced products and emphasizing the fresh and natural qualities of milk. A recent report by the Innovation Center of U.S. Dairy highlighted that children and teens who drink milk are more likely to maintain this habit into adulthood. The report underscored the importance of making dairy appealing to kids, suggesting strategies such as focusing on the taste of milk drinks and marketing dairy as a healthy, satisfying, convenient, and enjoyable snack.
Additionally, the importance of calcium for growing children cannot be overstated, and products like Puritan’s Pride Calcium Citrate can play a crucial role in ensuring that kids receive the necessary nutrients. By integrating such supplements into their diets, families can help bolster their children’s calcium intake, complementing the benefits of both dairy and plant-based alternatives. Ultimately, striking a balance between these options could be key to addressing the nutritional needs of children today.