779: Almonds | Skeptical Sunday

Almond Milk

Almond milk, often perceived as a healthy alternative to dairy, is mostly water with only two percent almonds, as David C. Smalley points out. This revelation challenges the common belief that almond milk is a nutritious substitute for cow's milk 1. The ethical implications extend beyond just the milk's composition. Almond farming significantly impacts bee populations, with up to 50 million bees dying annually due to pesticide exposure, even in organic farming 1. Jordan Harbinger and David discuss the irony of choosing almond milk for ethical reasons, only to find it may harm bees more than it helps cows 2.

   

Milk Alternatives

When comparing almond milk to other milk alternatives, the environmental impact becomes a focal point. David highlights that while almond milk requires significant water resources, other alternatives like hemp, soy, and oat milk have their own pros and cons 3. The lack of comprehensive research makes it difficult to declare a clear winner among these alternatives. David humorously notes that the choice of milk often depends on personal values and available research, suggesting he might try hemp milk next 3.

   

Ethical Dilemma

The ethical debate surrounding almond milk also touches on the treatment of dairy cows. David shares his observations from visiting dairy farms, noting that not all cows are mistreated, contrary to popular belief 1. He argues that while dairy milk is environmentally taxing, almond milk's impact on bees presents its own ethical dilemma. This raises questions about the true ethical choice between almond and dairy milk, as both have significant environmental and ethical concerns 1.