Nonfat Milk vs. Soy Milk: A Comprehensive Comparison

A huge difference exists between nonfat milk and soy milk. Soy milk is not a dairy product at all, but is made from soy. Nonfat milk, while healthier than whole milk, is still dairy with fat removed.

Origins

• Extracted from soybeans, soy milk is often recommended as a natural milk substitute for people who are lactose intolerant. The oils and liquids strained from soybean crops are processed to become the soy milk that is sold in grocery stores. Nonfat milk comes from a cow, but the milk is processed so most of the fat is removed before sale.

Nutrient Origins

• Soy milk and nonfat milk get their nutrients from different places. While nonfat milk will occasionally be fortified with additional vitamins, most of the nutrients in nonfat milk are natural. Soy milk requires calcium and Vitamin D, as well as many other nutrients, to be added.

Soy Concerns

• Limited amounts of soy in the diet are considered healthy, but many studies raise concerns about large amounts of soy in the diet. Concerns are especially brought up about isoflavones, chemicals found in soy that might cause various health problems in some individuals.