Cow’s Milk or Oat Drink – What’s Better for Children?

More and more parents are turning to oat or soy drinks instead of cow’s milk – but what does that mean for children’s health? Pediatricians and nutrition experts urge caution.

Cow’s milk provides essential nutrients

The range of plant-based milk alternatives continues to grow – whether oat, almond, pea or coconut. While they’re often seen as healthy choices, that’s not always the case for children. “Many parents underestimate how important calcium and protein are during growth phases,” says pediatrician Dr. Charlotte Schulz. Replacing cow’s milk entirely can lead to nutritional deficiencies – particularly in calcium and vitamin B12.

What’s in it – and what’s missing?

Soy and pea-based drinks contain more protein than other alternatives, but without fortification they often lack calcium. One important fact: EU organic regulations prohibit adding vitamins and minerals to organic plant drinks. “Organic isn’t automatically better in this case,” says dietitian Dr. Stephanie Hompes. Oat drinks, for example, provide plenty of carbohydrates but little protein – something many parents don’t realize.

Advice: Combine, don’t cut out

About 300 milliliters of cow’s milk per day – or equivalent servings of yogurt and cheese – are considered beneficial for young children. Those choosing to supplement or replace with plant-based options should seek nutritional guidance, Schulz and Hompes advise. The risk of deficiencies is especially high when raising children on a vegan diet without professional support.

Contrary to older advice, cow’s milk can be introduced in small amounts from six months of age – for example, mixed into porridge. Early exposure may even help prevent allergies or intolerances later on. The consulted experts recommend that parents not rely solely on plant-based drinks – but instead aim for a balanced and well-informed combination.