Milk- and Dairy Alternatives

Michelle Carolla

Supplied by Michelle Carolla
veg+

Op Ed: Michelle Carolla, Founder of Clean Living With Michelle – How Plant-Based Milk Fits Into a Healthy Vegan Diet

Michelle is a certified plant-based chef and founder of Clean Living with Michelle, a product line based on plant-based, sustainable and clean products. The Clean Living Plant Milker is an at-home plant-milk maker that creates fresh, clean milks for pennies a serving and eliminating plastic waste.  In this article, Michelle discusses the rising popularity of plant-based milks, not just among vegans but also health-conscious individuals. The piece explores the nutritional benefits of various plant-based milk options and provides guidance on how to integrate these alternatives into a balanced diet. How Plant-Based Milk Fits into a Healthy Vegan Diet  By Michelle Carolla, Certified Plant-Based Chef & Founder, Clean Living with Michelle  In what seems like an overnight burst of popularity, plant-based milks are taking over store …

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Angel Yeast

© Angel Yeast

Angel Yeast Unveils Yeast Protein Solution to Enhance Plant Milk Nutrition and Flavor Experience

Angel Yeast has introduced a groundbreaking yeast protein solution aimed at enhancing the nutritional value, flavor, and texture of plant-based milk products in the rapidly growing alternative dairy market. The yeast protein AngeoPro, is derived from brewer’s yeast through enzymatic hydrolysis and extraction, resulting in a microbial protein with over 80% protein content. This innovation addresses key challenges in the plant-based milk sector, including nutritional deficiencies and sensory issues that have long plagued the industry. “For years, consumers have been seeking plant-based milk alternatives that match the nutritional profile and sensory experience of dairy milk,” said R&D engineer of Angel Yeast. “We are thrilled to offer AngeoPro, which not only enhances the nutritional value of plant-based milk but also significantly improves its taste and texture, …

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The latest report by Bright Green Partners consultancy, examines the opportunities the European dairy industry has to address a projected rise in production costs by investing in sustainable alternatives to traditional dairy products.

© Bright Green Partners

Plant-Based and Precision-Fermented Milk Set for Dominance in Europe by 2040, Report Predicts

Plant-based milk could be 10% cheaper than cow’s milk and become a staple product and ingredient by the end of 2030 if products meet taste and nutrition requirements, such as higher protein and micronutrients. Meanwhile, alternative milk made with precision-fermented (animal-free) whey and casein proteins will become increasingly competitive as technical innovations improve and production processes scale up. These are among various estimates from the latest report by alternative protein consultancy Bright Green Partners. This report examines the opportunities the European dairy industry has to address a projected rise in production costs by investing in sustainable alternatives to traditional dairy products. Floor Buitelaar, managing partner of Bright Green Partners, shared, “This report is a must-read for industry leaders who want to understand the future dairy …

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Formo animal-free cream cheese

© Formo

METRO Germany Becomes “First” Wholesaler to Sell Formo Animal-Free Cream Cheese

METRO Germany is now offering Frischain, an animal-free cream cheese produced by the German startup Formo. The wholesaler claims to be the first in the world to stock the product. Frischain is made using microfermentation, which produces functional proteins that can be processed using traditional dairy cheese production methods. These proteins are derived from koji, a fungus traditionally used in soy sauce, miso, and sake to break down complex molecules and enhance flavours. The resulting cheese alternative is said to be almost indistinguishable from dairy cream cheese. METRO is offering the product on its refrigerated shelves in a 1.5 kilogram catering container. The wholesaler operates 102 stores and 11 delivery depots across Germany, boasting around three million customers. “With Frischhain, we are pleased to be …

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Flora

© Upfield

Flora Launches “Category First” Plant-Based Smoked Garlic Butter

Upfield-owned dairy-free spread brand Flora has expanded its range with the launch of a new plant-based smoked garlic butter. The limited-edition product is claimed to be a category first for butters, spreads, and margarines. According to Flora, it is suitable for making pasta dishes, garlic mushrooms, and more. A Quantis life cycle assessment tool reportedly shows that the garlic butter has a 78% lower climate impact than dairy butter. The product is vegan-friendly and free of common allergens. According to The Grocer, Flora also has plans to launch more savoury plant-based butters next year. The products will all initially be limited editions, with the best-performing potentially becoming permanent additions to the range. “Pushing boundaries” Flora launched its original plant-based butter block in 2020, describing the …

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Webtalk Recording: Dairy Alternatives – The Intersection of Success and Sorrow

The recording of the webtalk “Dairy Alternatives: The Intersection of Success and Sorrow” offers profound insights into the current challenges and opportunities facing the dairy alternatives industry. In this discussion, experts came together to explore market dynamics, consumer trends, and potential hurdles for future growth. Expert Panel Moritz Möller, CMO at Veganz Group AG Lisa Mammen-Annas, Senior Manager Business Acceleration & Innovation at DMK Group Dr. Svenja Dannewitz, CEO & CSO at Senara GmbH Sorosh Tavakoli, Founder & CEO at Stockeld Dreamery Nadine Filko, Moderation Mind map on the state and future of milk alternatives The discussion highlights how dairy alternatives have evolved from niche products to mainstream staples. However, despite this success, there are considerable challenges. The panellists emphasised that the industry is confronted …

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Oddlygood cake

© Oddlygood

Oddlygood: “Our Ambition is Always to Make ‘Odd’ the New Norm”

Originally founded in Finland as part of the Valio Group, Oddlygood is a plant-based food and beverage company known for its dairy-free alternatives such as plant-based milks, desserts, yogurts, and cheeses, with a focus on oat-based. After acquiring Nordic brand Planti in a strategic move almost a year ago, the brand has seen retail success in the UK as well as northern European markets, and previously launched its Barista Oat drink on the US market in 2022. This February, Oddlygood received a Product of the Year award in the UK, and was the only completely vegan brand on the 2024 shortlist. We spoke with Amanda Majer, Marketing Manager UK & Ireland at Oddlygood, to find out the secret to Oddlygood’s success that has led to …

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Milkadamia flat pack oat milk

© Milkadamia

Milkadamia Launches First 2D-Printed Flat Pack Oat Milk on US Market

milkadamia is set to introduce the first flat-pack plant-based milk to the US market. The official launch of its Flat Pack Organic Oat Milk is scheduled for early next week at the Newtopia Now trade show in Denver, Colorado.  The Flat Pack Organic Oat Milk is produced through a proprietary 2D-printing process that transforms oat milk paste into ultra-light sheets. This approach substantially reduces packaging waste by 94% and a decrease in product weight by 85%.  Each pack contains eight sheets, which can be used to produce a total of half a gallon of oat milk (8oz per sheet). Consumers can prepare fresh oat milk by blending the sheets with water for 30 seconds or soaking them overnight, allowing for customizable portions and a longer …

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© DUG

© DUG

World Plant Milk Day: Market Insights – Asia Consumes the Most, US Shows Strong Brand Loyalty

Today marks World Plant Milk Day, when plant-based alternatives to dairy milk are celebrated, and consumers are encouraged to explore and embrace plant-based options. Recent data highlights the significant regional differences in the consumption and revenue of plant-based milk alternatives. Asia has emerged as the clear global leader in this market, with substantial contributions from countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. As the plant-based milk industry continues to expand, the global market is expected to reach $51.87 billion by 2032, according to The Brainy Insights. The market’s growth is likely to be driven by increasing awareness of the environmental impact of dairy production, rising rates of lactose intolerance, and the continuing popularity of vegan diets.  Regional leaders According to Statista’s Market Insights, Asia led …

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Veganz Mililk

© Veganz Group

Veganz’ 2D Printed Oat Milk Discs Arrive on Organic Grocery Stores Following €10M Investment

The gluten-free organic Mililk oat milk discs are produced by Veganz Group with 2D printers and sold in sheet form. Veganz claims that this form saves 94% packaging waste and 85% weight compared to products in milk cartons. The sustainable product, first revealed last summer, is now available in organic food stores in Germany. The milk alternative is now available under the Veganz Bio Mililk® Oat Barista brand from Terra Naturkost, the organic wholesaler for north-east Germany. Five-litre packs with printed sheets of gluten-free organic oats (grown in Europe) in barista quality are now available at the chain, in addition to its existing availability at REWE. Rapid success The innovative product has been an instant hit among retailers and consumers. Veganz reports that in taste …

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Lurpak plant-based butter

© Lurpak

Lurpak Launches Plant-Based Version of Its Spreadable Butter

Lurpak, the premium Danish butter brand owned by dairy cooperative Arla Foods, has announced the launch of a plant-based version of its spreadable butter. According to Arla, Lurpak Plant Based provides the same quality and functionality as dairy-based Lurpak Spreadable, and is suitable for spreading, cooking, and baking. It is also said to have a simple ingredients list. Arla said new product innovation was a key part of its growth strategy, and that bringing Lurpak into the plant-based category would help to strengthen its brands in key markets. The cooperative also noted that more consumers are now opting for dairy alternatives, meaning that Lurpak Plant Based will add value to both retailers and consumers. Farmer backlash The new Lurpak product has attracted some controversy from …

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Silk almond milk

© Silk

Listeria Outbreak in Plant-Based Milk: It’s Time to Give Some Context to the Reality of the Situation

A Listeria outbreak linked to Silk and Great Value plant-based milk products in Canada has recently made headlines, causing significant concern among consumers and prompting a large-scale recall by Danone, the parent company of Silk. The French food giant recalled 18 different products, including three almond beverages under the Great Value brand, all produced at a third-party manufacturing facility in Pickering, Ontario. Although the investigation into the exact cause of the outbreak is ongoing, this incident has raised questions about food safety in the plant-based sector. Listeria is a genus of bacteria, with Listeria monocytogenes being the most significant species concerning human health. This pathogen can cause listeriosis, a severe infection, especially in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with …

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Califia Farms oat milk

Image courtesy of ProVeg International

How Plant-Based Milk Claimed the Top Spot

Across Europe, the success of plant-based milk is easy to see. Step into most leading supermarkets and you’ll find a variety of plant-based milk products lining the shelves – in both the chilled and long-life milk aisles. It’s not just our supermarkets; plant-based milk can be found in popular food service venues, big-name hotels, and even schools throughout Europe. In our homes, non-dairy milk is now a staple. Ahead of next week’s World Plant Milk Day (August 22), ProVeg International shares the latest market data and uncovers how plant-based milk became king. An overview of the plant-based milk industry In 2024, the non-dairy milk market is valued at an estimated USD 5.60 billion. It is projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 10.96 billion by 2029, with …

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Oato caffee latte

© Oato

Oato Launches Ready-to-Drink Caffe Latte with Modern Milkman

Oato, the UK brand known for its fresh oat m*lk products, this week announces a new limited edition flavour — Caffè Latte by Oato — created exclusively for Modern Milkman, a delivery service that revives the traditional milk round for modern-day consumers. Caffè Latte by Oato blends the classic Oato oat milk, made from 100% British oats and filtered water, with coffee and tones of vanilla and caramel, and is the latest addition to the range that includes Barista Whole, Chocoloato, and Strawberry Oat. The Latte drink is produced in small batches at the Oato Lancashire farm. Starting life with sole availability in milk rounds, Oato first landed on retail shelves this February with a regional listing at Booths, and a few months later gained …

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Nutrition from Water

© Nutrition from Water

Nutrition from Water Develops Microalgae-Based Whey, Prepares for Market Introduction

New Zealand-based biotechnology startup Nutrition from Water (NXW), previously known as NewFish, has developed a microalgae-based whey for sports, wellness, advanced nutrition, and other categories such as baking and dairy-free confectionery. Branded as Marine Whey, the ingredient is said to offer an amino acid profile that rivals that of leading traditional animal proteins while surpassing plant-based proteins in digestibility. Described as allergen-free, vegan, and non-GMO, the protein ingredient is currently undergoing certification for self-attained GRAS. In addition, it has a neutral sensory profile, allowing for multiple applications, from nutritional foods and beverages to everyday meals and snacks, benefiting elite athletes and everyday consumers alike. The biotech plans to introduce Marine Whey to the global market within the next year, starting with the US and Japan. …

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Mooala organic barista

© Mooala

Mooala Debuts USDA-Certified Organic Barista Oatmilk on Amazon and Whole Foods

Mooala, one of the fastest-growing plant-based milk brands in the US, has unveiled its new Organic Barista Blend Oatmilk. The product, designed to steam and froth more effectively than many leading alternatives, is now available on Amazon and in select Whole Foods Market stores. Packaged in 32-oz cartons, the Barista Blend was developed with input from top baristas to create a rich and velvety foam suitable for both professional and home use. According to Mooala, all their plant-based milks are USDA-certified organic, ensuring they are free from GMOs, herbicides, preservatives, and toxic chemicals. The new blend provides the high performance and creaminess of oat milk without the chemical additives commonly found in mainstream barista oat milk. Jeff Richards, CEO of Mooala, explained the company’s approach: …

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Mililk_lifestyle shot

© Veganz

Veganz Secures €10M to Scale Production of Mililk 2D-Printed Milk Alternatives

German plant-based food producer Veganz Group AG has signed a Securities Purchase Agreement with Global Corporate Finance LLC (GCF), securing equity financing of up to €10 million. The funding will allow Veganz to scale up the production of Mililk, an innovative milk alternative supplied in the form of 2D-printed sheets that can be blended with water. By optimizing and automating manufacturing processes, the company hopes to increase its capacity for the production of milk alternatives by a factor of five to meet growing demand. Veganz will also use the funds to increase the output of Peas on Earth, a pea protein-based meat alternative. The contract with GCF allows for a flexible use of the financial resources over a 30-month period. Funds will be raised by …

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JetBlue Airways

© JetBlue Airways

JetBlue Airways to Provide Oat Milk as Part of Complimentary Beverage Offerings on Flights

US airline JetBlue Airways has announced that oat milk packets are now available as part of the complimentary beverage offerings on its flights. Coffee and tea drinkers can enjoy Lakeland Dairies’ Oat in a Stick milk alternative in their drinks, as JetBlue diversifies its beverage portfolio to cater to customers’ dietary preferences and restrictions. The airline also offers free and unlimited snacks on its flights, with all current options suitable for vegans. The snacks include Popchips Sea Salt, Partake Classic Grahams, Safe + Fair Everything Bagel Pretzels, and Chifles Plantain Chips. On flights longer than two hours, passengers can order the Mediterranean-inspired SavorUp snack box, which is vegan and certified kosher. The box contains hummus, multigrain tortilla chips, artichokes, olives, and coconut cookies. On flights …

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A man holding multiple NotMilk products

© NotCo

Word-of-Mouth is Key Channel in Success of Plant-Based Milks, Finds Study

Research on US consumer preferences for plant-based milk, conducted by New Zealand’s Lincoln University, has found that plant-based milk enthusiasts actively promote these alternatives through word-of-mouth, making them valuable allies in marketing. The study — focused on US consumers, due to the country’s extensive plant-based milk market — was conducted by Dr. Meike Rombach, Dr. Lei Cong, and Associate Professor David Dean and published in Beverages, to provide a framework for marketers to promote plant-based milk more effectively. Through a survey, the researchers measured how factors such as animal welfare, environmental concerns, health consciousness, and personal dietary preferences influenced consumers’ willingness to try plant-based milk and their propensity to share their views through word-of-mouth, particularly on social media. “Willingness to try is a low-commitment response …

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Three Robins oat milk fruit smoothie pouches

© Three Robins

Scotland’s Three Robins Launches “Pioneering” Oat Milk Fruit Smoothies for Kids

Scottish brand Three Robins has announced the launch of two oat milk-based fruit smoothie pouches for children’s lunchboxes and family outings. Described as “pioneering”, the ambient pouches are available in two flavours — Super Berry and Totally Tropical. They contain 24-45% fibre-rich vegetables and are said to provide a more nutritious alternative to typical apple juice-based products. The smoothie pouches are reportedly “causing a real stir” at supermarkets, food service outlets, independent stores, delis, and food halls. Three Robins eventually hopes to expand the products into education and the NHS. Multi-purpose oat milk Three Robins was launched in 2022 by Karen Robinson, an Edinburgh-based mother who discovered that one of her children was lactose intolerant. After struggling to find a milk alternative that was equally …

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