Non-dairy liquids marketed nationally as ‘milk’ include soy, cashew, almond, oat, hemp, rice and coconut extracts.
Dairy Connect and Farmers Group president Graham Forbes said the coronavirus disruption provided an opportunity for dairy milk marketers to recapture market share for the naturally fresh nutritious product.
“There is no question that the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals that are an integral part of the dairy milk offering were the essence of natural nutrition, particularly during times such as now,” Mr Forbes said.
Dairy Connect chief executive officer Shaughn Morgan said Dairy Connect fired the first shots against plant-sourced liquids sold to consumers as milks in January 2017.
“We called on consumer and agriculture ministers nationally to ensure a uniform standard for labelling that would preclude plant drinks from being described as ‘milk’ and thus restore ‘truth in labelling’,” he said.
“It is time for the state and federal governments to deliver what has been promised and ensure ‘truth in labelling’ and protect the iconic term ‘milk’.
“These plant products are hijacking the look and feel of dairy, while claiming to have the nutritional values of fresh and nutritious cow's milk.”
Mr Morgan said dairy milk contained higher levels of protein and a greater range of vitamins and minerals than plant-based drinks.
He said protein in plant products was incomparable to animal protein, as they did not contain all the essential amino acids.
“Children need sufficient levels of protein and energy for normal growth and development.
“Fresh liquid milk is a premium quality, short shelf-life food of immense nutritional value.
“Milk contains eight nutrients essential to human health and putting fresh dairy on the table at mealtimes can play an important role in healthy eating and wellbeing.
“These include B vitamins for energy, vitamin A to help maintain a healthy immune system and calcium which helps build and maintain bone strength.
“They also deliver minerals such as iodine, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus.
“In addition to the unique nutrient content in dairy, evidence is showing that there is a synergistic effect that demonstrates their health benefits.”