Perception and Consumption of plant-based Milk Substitutes in Switzerland

A diet with a high proportion of animal products contributes significantly to climate-damaging greenhouse gas emissions and ultimately to climate change. A more plant-based diet could counteract this. The already wide range of plant-based alternatives to milk and dairy products on the market supports this demand, and consumption of these products is increasing. In an online survey in German- and French-speaking Switzerland, 1204 participants were asked about their consumption or non-consumption of plant-based milk, yoghurt and cream substitutes. Participants who consumed plant-based alternatives to dairy products less than two to three times a year were assigned to the group of non-consumers (n = 610), while people with a higher consumption were assigned to the group of consumers (n = 594). It was found that the group of consumers tended to include young, well-educated, urban flexitarians. The most frequently consumed plant-based alternatives to cow's milk were soy, almond and oat drinks. The main reasons for consuming these products were taste, health (including allergies and intolerances) and environmental impact. These findings have important implications for research and practice and provide a better understanding of the growing group of people who want to contribute to a more sustainable diet by consuming plant-based alternatives.