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Switching from cow’s milk to plant-based alternatives such as oat and almond drinks or coconut yoghurt could leave people short of essential nutrients. That is the conclusion of British researchers whose findings have been published in the journal The Lancet Planetary Health.

Even partially replacing dairy milk — for example, adding oat milk to coffee instead of cow’s milk — may increase the risk of iodine deficiency. This trace element is essential for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth and brain development. A lack of iodine can cause fatigue, memory problems and weight gain.

Children, teenagers and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. Researchers warn that even a moderate iodine deficiency during pregnancy can negatively affect a child’s cognitive development. Meanwhile, around one-third of women of reproductive age already fail to get enough of this essential nutrient.

Scientists from the University of Surrey and Queen’s University Belfast analysed the diets of 3,500 people, as well as the nutritional composition of 164 plant-based drinks, 76 dairy-free yoghurt alternatives and 67 cheese substitutes. They found that only 12% of these products were fortified with iodine. Calcium was added to 61% of drinks and products, riboflavin to around one in five, while vitamin B12 was present in 46%.

Even a partial reduction in dairy consumption lowered people's intake of all four nutrients, with iodine intake falling the most.

Replacing 20–35% of dairy products with plant-based alternatives significantly increases the number of women and girls who do not get enough iodine. Among teenage girls, the proportion at risk rises from just over half to almost two-thirds. For women of reproductive age, the figure increases from 32% to 42%.

A complete switch away from dairy could leave up to 80% of teenage girls and 72% of teenage boys with insufficient iodine intake.

Plant-based alternatives may also compromise calcium intake. Teenagers, who often already fail to consume enough of this mineral, face an even greater risk of deficiency when dairy products are replaced. According to the researchers’ estimates, calcium deficiency could affect almost half of teenage boys and 70% of teenage girls following such a dietary change, potentially increasing their risk of osteoporosis later in life.

The researchers argue that plant-based milk and dairy alternatives should be fortified with essential nutrients. Adding iodine to bread is another potential solution they suggest.

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