iodine

A new study reports that swapping dairy products for unfortified plant-based milk alternatives could leave people deficient in certain nutrients. Researchers point to gaps in protein, calcium, iodine and other nutrients commonly found in cow's milk, unless plant alternatives are specifically fortified. Health commentators are urging consumers to check labels and consider their overall diet before making the switch.

A new study warns that switching from cow's milk to plant-based alternatives could harm health, finding vegan milks often fall short on key nutrients like protein, calcium, iodine and B12 unless fortified. Health commentators are urging people who drop dairy to plan replacements carefully, while vegan advocates counter that well-chosen fortified products can fill the gap.

Replacing dairy milk, cheese and yoghurt with plant-based alternatives could lead to micronutrient deficiencies, according to warnings reported by The Guardian. Many plant-based products contain lower levels of nutrients such as iodine, calcium and vitamin B12 than dairy, unless they are fortified. Nutrition experts are urging consumers to check labels and ensure they get these nutrients from other sources.

A Guardian report says people swapping dairy milk, cheese and yoghurt for plant-based vegan alternatives may be missing out on key micronutrients, particularly iodine. Readers are checking labels on soy and other plant milks, with one noting her one-litre UHT soymilk contains no iodine, prompting concern among vegans and others about nutritional gaps in dairy-free diets.

The US Food and Drug Administration has proposed new minimum and maximum levels for vitamins A and D, iodine, and manganese in infant formula. The move aims to update safety and nutrition standards for formula sold in the United States, and is drawing attention from parents, manufacturers, and nutrition experts weighing what the changes would mean for products on the market.