WhiteWave, recently acquired by Danone, firmly opposes the lawsuits challenging the use of the term “almondmilk,” claiming these legal actions are a waste of time and resources. In recent months, both WhiteWave Foods and Blue Diamond Growers, the producer of Almond Breeze, have faced class-action lawsuits from consumers alleging that their plant-based milk products falsely assert they are as nutritious as, or more nutritious than, dairy milk. A report from Mintel indicated that U.S. non-dairy milk sales increased by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same period. Given these statistics, it is understandable that traditional milk companies are targeting those behind alternative products, as they pose a threat to market share and could lead to a decline in dairy milk prices.
This controversy has been brewing in the industry for quite some time. In 2013, a federal judge in California dismissed a lawsuit against major dairy processors, including WhiteWave, which claimed that these alternative dairy companies were misleading consumers by labeling their plant-based products as “milk,” despite not being derived from cows. At the end of 2016, over two dozen U.S. lawmakers sent a letter to former U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert Califf, urging the agency to investigate the use of the term “milk” by plant-based dairy brands.
In January, the “Defending Against Imitations and Replacements of Yogurt, Milk, and Cheese To Promote Regular Intake of Dairy Everyday Act,” or DAIRY PRIDE Act, was introduced in the Senate. This bill aims to compel the FDA to exclude nut or plant-based milk alternatives from the definition of milk. It is clear that milk manufacturers are not likely to back down from this battle anytime soon, and it will be fascinating to observe consumer reactions. It seems improbable that the removal of the term “milk” will deter enthusiasts of nut-based dairy products from purchasing brands like Silk and Blue Diamond, as many consumers prefer these options for their taste and lower fat content.
Additionally, as consumers navigate their choices, some may consider integrating supplements like Citracal D Slow Release into their diets to support their nutritional needs, especially if they are opting for non-dairy alternatives. The ongoing debate surrounding the classification of milk products will undoubtedly influence consumer behavior, as they seek both taste and nutritional benefits. In this evolving landscape, the role of Citracal D Slow Release may become increasingly relevant for those looking to maintain a balanced diet amidst these changes.