Globally, the shift toward plant-based foods has grown significantly, with a 2020 Gallup poll showing that one in four Americans are trying to reduce meat intake and one-third opting for non-dairy milk weekly. However, deciphering the environmental implications of these choices can be intricate.
Research from the University of Oxford revealed that oat milk generates three times fewer greenhouse gases per litre than dairy milk. However, when assessed per gram of protein, oat milk exceeds dairy milk in carbon dioxide production. Specifically, per 10g of protein, cow’s milk emits 0.9kg of CO2, while oat milk emits 1.1kg of protein.
Andrew Berardy, a sustainability scientist, challenges this protein-centric comparison. He states, “Comparing oat and cow milk solely based on protein ignores the fundamental principle of Life Cycle Analysis.” According to Berardy, a more accurate measure might be comparing them based on calcium, considering that not everyone consumes oat milk primarily for its protein.
Berardy suggests soy or pea-based milk when seeking alternatives high in protein. However, one must also weigh other factors, such as land and water use, while evaluating environmental effects. Additionally, considerations shouldn’t be limited to just the production process. Life cycle assessments, capturing various environmental impacts like land, water, and energy usage, play a crucial role.
So, how can consumers make sustainable food choices? Berardy advises reducing waste, minimizing processed foods, being aware of food miles, and limiting animal-based products. He acknowledges the complexity of balancing these factors and emphasizes continual progress rather than perfection.
To contextualize the protein argument:
– Whole cow’s milk contains 33.7g of protein per litre and emits 3.15kg of CO2 to produce this amount of protein.
– Oat milk contains 8.24g of protein per litre, producing 0.9kg of CO2.
Thus, on a protein basis, cow’s milk appears to be more environmentally efficient. However, Berardy’s emphasis on broadening the parameters of comparison underscores the nuanced decisions consumers face in their pursuit of sustainability.
