Ms. Khushboo Sahijwani Matta, nutritionist at Rejua Energy and Health Center, Mumbai (India) - said that there are significant differences between yogurt made from animal milk and yogurt made from plants, including:
Protein
Yogurt made from animal milk: Contains complete protein, including all the essential amino acids the body needs. This helps support muscle growth and overall health.
Plant-based yogurts: Lower in protein, so they don't always have all the essential amino acids (unless supplemented). However, soy yogurts can provide a comparable amount of protein to cow's milk yogurt.
Lactose (natural sugar)
Yogurt made from animal milk: Often contains lactose, a natural sugar found in milk. People with lactose intolerance may have difficulty digesting yogurt made from animal milk.
Plant-based yogurt: Made from ingredients like soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk, it is therefore lactose-free, making it a good choice for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Vitamins and minerals
Yogurt made from animal milk: Is a source of calcium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin, which are especially important for people whose diets are deficient in these micronutrients.
Plant-based yogurts: Do not naturally contain vitamin B12 (unless fortified), but can contain many vitamins and minerals from plant ingredients, such as vitamin E (from almonds), vitamin D, and calcium (if fortified).
Fat
Yogurt from animal milk: Often high in saturated fat, which can affect cholesterol levels if consumed in excess.
Plant-based yogurt: Depending on the ingredients, plant-based yogurts can be high in unsaturated fats, especially those made with almond, coconut, or soy milk, which are heart-healthy.
Fiber
Yogurt from animal milk: No fiber.
Plant-based yogurt: Yogurts made from plant ingredients (like soy, oats) can contain a certain amount of fiber, which is good for the digestive system.
Benefits of almond yogurt (plant)
If consumers are looking for a nutritious (plant-based) yogurt, almond yogurt can be an option, as long as it is fortified with essential nutrients, says Yogita Chavan, a nutritionist at Godrej Memorial Hospital, Mumbai (India).
“The calcium and B12 levels in plant-based yogurts will be lower than those made from animal milk. However, if almond-based yogurt is fortified with additional micronutrients during processing, it can be a complete food,” says Dr. Chavan.
Nutritionists advise that the nutritional value of each type of yogurt mentioned above will depend on individual needs such as diet, nutrition and health goals of each person.
