Germany: Vegan milk substitutes - sham packaging or climate rescue drink?

The article explores the environmental and nutritional aspects of switching from cow's milk to vegan milk alternatives, with a focus on oat milk. It highlights the potential for reduced greenhouse gas emissions, though the savings are relatively small at three percent, and discusses the competitive market and various challenges faced by alternative milk options. The article points out that the environmental impact and health benefits of these alternatives vary, with some like oat milk being more climate-friendly and natural, while others like almond and rice milk requiring large amounts of water and leading to higher emissions. It also touches on the high cost and the need for more sustainable and locally sourced ingredients in these products. Furthermore, it mentions the nutritional differences between cow's milk and plant-based milks and the efforts by manufacturers to improve the taste and consistency of vegan milk alternatives through the use of emulsifiers, aromas, and flavor enhancers.