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Table 5 Key themes discussed among survey respondents

From: Perspectives from healthcare professionals on the nutritional adequacy of plant-based dairy alternatives: results of a mixed methods inquiry

Theme

Example quotes

Dairy has a superior overall nutrient value compared to PB dairy alternatives

“cows milk has a standard of identity and assures the same nutrient content regardless of brand, city, state it was produced in; plant based beverages nutrient content varies by brand and only certain brands of soy beverages come close in matching the nutrient content of cows milk”

“I think that even fortified plant-based products don't contain the same amount of calcium as dairy products and because dairy products are also naturally high in 8 other essential nutrients.”

The protein content and quality in dairy products is superior to PB dairy alternatives

“Most plant-based beverages are very low in protein as well (for example, almond milk) which is important for children and elderly as it is common for these age groups to struggle with protein intake. Cow’s milk has more of the building block proteins that humans need in their diet.”

“Dairy products tend to be a higher source of quality protein…”

Both products have nutritional advantages and disadvantages

“They both have nutritional benefits and deficits. I think the determining factor is the specific patients dietary needs/restrictions”

“I think each have different nutrition facts. Broadly grouping them makes it hard to say they are superior. They all provide nutrients.”

Nutritional adequacy is dependent upon the whole diet

“Cows milk is not the sole source of vitamins and minerals. Eating a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables and whole grains will satisfy your dietary needs.”

“With a healthy diet a person can get most of the nutrients needed. Plant based or not.”

  1. Themes were not separated between those discussing the nutritional merits vs. demerits of PB alternatives due to the small number of total comments discussing nutritional merits of PB alternatives