Agri Kultuur June / Junie 2018 | Page 34

Pitfalls of plant-based beverages Plant-based beverages such as those made from almonds, rice and oats, etc. differ considerably from cow’s milk with regard to nutritional composition and bio-availability of nutrients. Calcium does not occur naturally in these products, which are usually fortified with vitamins and minerals. People who avoid dairy for reasons such as the desire to follow a vegan diet, milk protein allergy, misconceptions about animal welfare, etc. should study the food labels on plant-based beverages carefully to determine whether they are getting an adequate calcium intake or are at risk of deficiency. possible, give them a chance to improve your health and complete your diet. It would seem that the source of calcium in your diet really does matter! An initiative by the Consumer Education Project of Milk South Africa www.rediscoverdairy.co.za www.dairygivesyougo.co.za Whole foods Dairy products are rich sources of nine essential nutrients, of which high-quality protein, calcium and potassium are probably the most important for South African requirements. Whole foods such as milk, maas, yoghurt and cheese are the richest source of bio-available calcium in the diet so, if AgriKultuur |AgriCulture 34