What to Know About Non-Dairy Milks

Reading to your child should begin prior to delivery.  Do daily after delivery for years to come. 

by Irwin J. Kash, MD

Non-Dairy Milk Should Never Be Used as Infant Formula

Infant formulas are specifically designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of babies. They are regulated by the FDA and must meet strict federal nutrient standards. Non-dairy milks, including soy milk, almond milk, and other plant-based alternatives, should never be used as a replacement for infant formula.

Soy milk should not be given in place of a soy-based infant formula, and nut-based milks are also unsuitable for infants. Both cow’s milk and non-dairy milks can be incorporated into a child’s diet after age one, but they do not provide the essential nutrients required for an infant’s development.

Premature Babies and Soy-Based Products

Premature babies should never be fed soy milk or soy formulas. Plant-based milk alternatives (PBMAs) are made from various sources, including nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, and almonds), seeds (sesame, flax, and hemp), rice, coconuts, oats, or legumes (such as soy). The nutrient composition of these products varies depending on the plant source and processing methods.

Nutritionally, non-dairy milks are not direct substitutes for regular milk. Calcium-fortified soy milk is the only non-dairy milk considered equivalent to dairy in terms of protein content and is the only PBMA included in federal dietary guidelines. Unlike non-dairy alternatives, cow’s milk naturally provides essential nutrients like protein, calcium, potassium, and vitamin B12.

The Controversy Around Toddler Formula

While toddler formula may seem like a beneficial option, experts generally do not recommend it. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that toddler formula is “unnecessary and potentially harmful to young children.”

For most toddlers, cow’s milk is the recommended beverage after weaning from breast milk or infant formula. Toddler formulas are marketed for children as young as nine months up to three years old, with a primary focus on one-year-olds transitioning from infant formula. However, unlike infant formulas, which are strictly regulated by the FDA, toddler formulas do not undergo the same level of scrutiny regarding composition, labeling, and nutrient requirements.

Many toddler milk products primarily consist of powdered milk, sweeteners (such as corn syrup), and vegetable oils. These products typically contain higher levels of sodium, fat, and added sugar than infant formula. Due to these concerns, they are not recommended for infants and are not an ideal choice for toddlers either.

Key Takeaways

  • Non-dairy milks should never be used as a substitute for infant formula.
  • Premature babies should not be given soy milk or soy formulas.
  • Calcium-fortified soy milk is the only non-dairy alternative considered nutritionally comparable to dairy.
  • Toddler formula is not recommended by the AAP due to its unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients.
  • After age one, plain cow’s milk is the preferred beverage for most toddlers.

Understanding the differences between dairy and non-dairy milks can help parents make informed decisions about their child’s nutrition. Always consult a pediatrician before making dietary changes for infants and toddlers.