Alpro, a pioneer in plant-based alternatives since 1980, offers a wide range of products from soya and oat drinks to almond and coconut yogurts. With many people switching from dairy, questions about the health benefits of these alternatives are common. The answer isn't a simple yes or no, but rather depends on the specific Alpro product, your individual dietary needs, and how it fits into your overall diet.
The Health Benefits of Alpro
Alpro products can be a beneficial part of a healthy, balanced diet, especially for those who are vegan, vegetarian, or lactose intolerant.
- Fortification: Many Alpro products, particularly the unsweetened varieties, are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. These nutrients are crucial for bone health and energy, helping to fill nutritional gaps that can occur when removing dairy from a diet.
- Lower Saturated Fat: Most Alpro products are naturally low in saturated fat compared to cow's milk. This can be a benefit for those managing their cholesterol levels.
- Plant-based Protein: Soya-based products are particularly good sources of high-quality, plant-based protein, providing all nine essential amino acids.
- Dairy-Free and Lactose-Free: All Alpro products are naturally dairy and lactose-free, making them suitable for those with intolerances or allergies.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
However, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks, which vary greatly by product.
- High Sugar Content: Many flavoured Alpro products, such as vanilla drinks or desserts, contain high levels of added sugar. These should be consumed in moderation and are not a daily 'healthy' option. Always check the nutrition label for the sugar content.
- Processed Ingredients: Alpro products are considered highly processed foods. Some contain additives like stabilisers, emulsifiers, and oils to improve taste and texture. For those who follow a whole-food diet, this may be a concern.
- Nutritional Gaps in Organic Versions: Organic Alpro products, while free from certain additives, may lack the fortification found in non-organic versions due to regulations. For instance, an organic almond drink may have very little calcium.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
The ingredient list reveals a lot about the health profile of different Alpro products.
Alpro Soya
- Original: Fortified with vitamins B2, B12, D, and calcium. Contains some added sugar.
- No Sugars: Fortified and free from added sugars, making it a better option for those watching their sugar intake.
- High Protein: Offers a higher protein content than standard versions, useful for those with active lifestyles.
Alpro Oat
- Original: Fortified with vitamins and calcium, but lower in protein than soya drinks.
- No Sugars: A good fortified, low-sugar option, though still low in protein.
- Barista: Specifically formulated for hot drinks but may contain more fats and sugars depending on the variety.
Alpro Almond
- Original: Low in calories and saturated fat but also very low in protein. Fortified with vitamins and calcium.
- No Sugars: The healthiest almond option, being very low in calories and without added sugar. Still low in protein.
Comparison Table: Alpro Soya vs Cow's Milk (per 100ml)
| Nutrient | Alpro Soya Original (Fortified) | Cow's Milk (Semi-Skimmed) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 42 kcal | ~47 kcal |
| Fat | 1.9 g | ~1.6 g |
| Saturates | 0.3 g | ~1.0 g |
| Sugars | 2.5 g (Low) | ~4.7 g |
| Protein | 3.3 g | ~3.4 g |
| Calcium | 120 mg (15% RI*) | ~120 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.38 µg (15% RI*) | ~0.4 µg |
*Reference intake of an average adult
This comparison highlights that fortified Alpro soya can offer a comparable protein and calcium profile to semi-skimmed cow's milk, with lower saturated fat. However, unfortified or un-sweetened varieties will differ significantly.
Ethical Considerations and Danone's Ownership
An important aspect for many consumers is Alpro's ownership. The brand was acquired by the large conglomerate Danone in 2016. Danone has received criticism for various ethical issues, including greenwashing and extensive plastic pollution. This may be a deciding factor for those looking to support ethical and independent vegan businesses. However, Alpro itself has received good ratings for its organic products and generally scores well for its plant-based focus.
How to Choose the Healthiest Alpro Product for You
To make an informed decision, consider these steps:
- Prioritise Unsweetened Versions: Opt for 'No Sugars' or 'Unsweetened' varieties to avoid unnecessary added sugars. This is especially important for daily consumption.
- Read the Labels: Always check the nutrition label for fortification levels. While Alpro does fortify most of its standard products, not all of them contain the same vitamins. Check the percentages for calcium, D2, and B12.
- Match to Your Needs: If you are seeking a protein source, soya-based drinks are your best bet. If low calories are the priority, unsweetened almond is a great choice.
- Look at Organic vs. Conventional: Decide if fortification or avoiding potential additives is more important to you. Organic versions often lack added vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion: Is Alpro really healthy?
The health of Alpro products is not a simple question with a single answer. Many of its products, especially the unsweetened and fortified varieties, can be a healthy and nutritious part of a balanced diet for adults and children over one year old. However, sweetened, flavoured, and dessert products contain high levels of sugar and should be seen as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. The high level of processing and ethical concerns related to its parent company, Danone, are also points of consideration for conscientious consumers. Ultimately, by reading the labels and choosing unsweetened, fortified options like Alpro Soya No Sugars, you can ensure your Alpro purchase aligns with a healthy lifestyle.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For specific health and dietary concerns, consult a healthcare professional. For more scientific updates on plant-based nutrition, read studies from the Alpro Foundation.
