The "Plant-Based" Trap
Just because it's vegan doesn't mean it's dairy-free. Here's how to spot the deception.
The Reality / Science
"Plant-based" and "vegan" are marketing terms, not regulated definitions. A product can be labeled "plant-based" and still contain whey, casein, or other dairy derivatives. Manufacturers use vague language intentionally — it sounds healthy and trendy without committing to actual dairy-free status.
Healthwashing is real. A product with a leaf on the label and "plant-powered" language might still hide dairy in the fine print. The goal: sell to health-conscious parents without alienating dairy-using manufacturers.
"Marketing terms like 'plant-based' are not regulated by the FDA and can be misleading." — Consumer Reports
Why the Myth Persists
Marketing works. A product with a green label, a leaf logo, and the word "vegan" feels safe. But vegan ≠ dairy-free. Vegan means no animal products for ethical reasons; dairy-free means no dairy for safety or digestive reasons. They're different goals. A product can be vegan (no eggs, no honey) but still contain dairy.
Parental Perspective
You're not paranoid for being skeptical of marketing claims. You're smart. Manufacturers count on you skimming the front label and trusting the vibe. But your child's safety depends on the ingredient list, not the marketing copy. That's not cynicism — that's due diligence.
Takeaway / Action Tip
- Ignore the front label. "Plant-based," "vegan," "natural" — these are marketing, not promises.
- Read the ingredient list. Look for: milk, whey, casein, cream, butter, milk solids, lactose.
- Check for allergen warnings. "Contains: milk" is your signal.
- When in doubt, contact the manufacturer. One email can save a reaction.
- Stick to explicitly "dairy-free" products. That's a clearer commitment than "plant-based."
Pro tip: Screenshot or bookmark safe product pages for quick reference.