How Are Plant-Based Milk Alternatives Presented Online? A Comparison of Information on Allergens, Nutrients and Sustainability Between Product Types From Selected UK Retailer Websites

Consumers in the United Kingdom (UK) are increasingly choosing plant-based milk alternatives (PBMAs) due to food hypersensitivity, nutritional and sustainability considerations. With the growth of online shopping, comprehension of food product information available via retailer websites is important. This study evaluated allergen and nutrition information and sustainability claims for PBMAs available on three major UK retailers' websites. A review conducted between June and July 2024 collected data on 196 PBMAs from supermarket webpages, including product characteristics (processing method, sweetened/unsweetened), food allergens in the ingredients list, precautionary allergen labelling (PAL), nutrition information, claims (food hypersensitivity, environment, sustainability, nutrition and health), and the presence and type of front of pack nutrition label (FOPNL). Product types (oat, almond, soya, and coconut) and retailers were compared using one-way ANOVA or a non-parametric alternative test. Associations between product data and types/retailers were checked using Chi-square tests. There was a significant association between product types and PAL (χ(2) = 27.651, p < 0.001), with PAL statements found on fewer oat (16%) and soya (14%) drinks compared to coconut (50%) and almond drinks (70%). Significant associations were identified between retailers and the presence of PAL statements (χ(2) = 79.268, p < 0.001) and hypersensitivity claims (χ(2) = 8.754, p = 0.013). The type of FOPNL used varied significantly between retailers (χ(2) = 12.398; p = 0.015), with 51%–72% products displaying no FOPNL; 16%–36% using the plain format and only 7%–13% using the Traffic Light format. These findings highlight the need for more consistent and transparent provision of information on PBMAs sold online.