Is Soy Milk More Nutritious Than Cow's Milk?

The benefits of dairy products versus cow's milk substitutes such as soy-based beverages have been a hot topic lately. Let us take stock of the current debate to uncover the truth!

For a 250 ml serving, a soy beverage has a better calorie/protein/saturated fat ratio than 2% cow's milk. However, in terms of the nutrients that the two beverages provide, it's a tie. In other words, each drink has its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, cow's milk has more vitamin B and potassium while soy beverages contain more vitamin E and iron.

A Refined Nuance

That being said, the only reason why soy beverages are as nutritious as milk is because humans have provided it with same benefits. Which means that soy milk currently on the market is enriched with nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. Otherwise, non-enriched soy beverages would have a significantly lower nutritional profile than cow's milk which are high in vitamins A and D.

"Natural or Not, That Is the Abiding Question"

One argument that is often mentioned is that human beings are the only mammals that feed on the milk of another mammal. However, it must also be pointed out that we are the only mammal to turn soybeans into a juice that is artificially enriched with multiple nutrients. But that is a debate for another day…