The emergence of plant-based milk alternatives has increasingly threatened traditional cow’s milk, particularly as the dairy aisle has been filled with options like oat, almond, soy, coconut, and macadamia milks. In 2020, plant-based milks accounted for 14% of the overall category, and in 2019, their sales surged by 19%, while dairy milk sales remained stagnant. However, new consumer preferences emerging in 2023, particularly for products made with whole ingredients, suggest that many plant-based milks might be losing traction.
A study presented at the Nutrition 2023 conference indicated that not all plant-based milk options provide the same nutritional benefits as dairy. For instance, protein levels, along with Vitamin D and calcium, were noted as nutritional aspects where many plant-based options fell short. In contrast, camel milk is gaining attention as a viable alternative. Its nutritional advantages, including higher digestibility compared to cow’s milk, make it an attractive option. Camel milk is rich in essential nutrients, antioxidants, and Vitamin A, and it is increasingly recognized for its natural probiotic properties.
The camel milk market has seen significant growth in recent years, especially as dairy companies like Good Earth Dairy and Drome Dairy Naturals have introduced this alternative into their product lines. However, camel milk faces a similar challenge as the plant-based milk segment: price. The report indicates that camel milk can be 7-8 times more expensive than cow’s milk. Nonetheless, experts believe that educating consumers about its benefits can help it reach the right high-end demographic.
One strategy that camel milk producers have employed to enhance its visibility is marketing it within the beauty sector. By offering products such as body lotions, hand creams, and shampoos made from camel milk, consumers are becoming more aware of its unique health benefits. This increased awareness may also lead to discussions about which is better for osteoporosis—calcium citrate or carbonate—since both are essential for bone health and are often compared in terms of their effectiveness.
As the market evolves, the competition between traditional dairy, plant-based alternatives, and camel milk will likely intensify, prompting consumers to consider both health benefits and nutritional content, including the crucial role of calcium in their diets.