Milk

Milk - noun: an opaque white fluid rich in fat and protein secreted by female mammals for the nourishment of their young.

Some have added to the definition that it is also a food product produced from seeds, nuts or fruit that resembles milk. Despite this addition, real milk comes from mammals. Every time I see advertisements for almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or any of these products calling themselves milk, my first thought is "nuts and vegetables don't produce milk". With that in mind I offer the following to make my case:

• Almond milk - contains less than 2% almonds. The rest is water, added vitamins, minerals, sweeteners and thickening agents. At its most basic, almond milk is a drink made from ground almonds and water.
• Coconut milk: Liquid that comes from the grated pulp of a mature coconut. Has a high oil content, most of which is saturated fat.
• Soy milk: A plant-based drink produced by soaking and grinding soy beans, boiling the mixture and filtering out remaining particles. It is an emulsion of oil, water and protein.

Looking at the ingredients in these products, it's quite clear that they are not milk. They may mimic the look and taste of milk, but they are not real milk. For truth in advertising they should call themselves a milk substitute.

For those who have difficulty digesting milk, there are dairy products available such as Lactaid (lactose free milk) and A2 milk (free of A1 beta-casein) which allows them to enjoy real milk. 

There are many people who have allergies to milk. The nut, seed and plant-based products are a good alternative for them. Many of them offer their original flavor, plus vanilla or chocolate to give consumers a choice.

There is nothing better than an ice-cold glass of milk with warm chocolate chip cookies, or a big glass of chocolate milk. We never get too old for these pleasures.

So, if you can't tolerate real milk, enjoy your milk substitute.