Why are U.S. consumers switching back from plant-based milks to dairy milk, according to the article?

Consumers are switching back due to disappointment with plant milks’ high price, poor taste, heavy processing, and low protein content compared to dairy milk — a shift reflected in three consecutive years of over 5% annual volume sales declines for dairy-free milks, while U.S. dairy-milk retail sales remain steady at nearly $18 billion per year.

What strategic responses have major plant-milk companies taken amid declining sales?

Some producers are adapting — Danone SA launched high-protein Silk plant-based products after appointing a new U.S. plant-milk head following CEO frustration with weak North American sales — while others are exiting entirely, such as UK dairy cooperative Arla, which discontinued its plant-based brand last year, and Innocent Drinks, which did the same two years earlier.

Americans Are Rethinking Their Love Affair With Plant Milks

Aug 3, 2026

US retail sales of dairy-free milks have declined for three years as consumers prioritize simple, high-protein dairy options. Major producers like Danone and Oatly are adjusting strategies amid shifting demand toward whole, unprocessed ingredients.

bloomberg

2026-08-03

Americans Are Rethinking Their Love Affair With Plant Milks

Americans Are Rethinking Their Love Affair With Plant Milks

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