Which type of milk is considered a dairy alternative?

Almond milk is considered a dairy alternative because it is made from almonds and does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. As a plant-based milk substitute, it is particularly popular among those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or looking for a lower-calorie option compared to traditional dairy milks. Almond milk provides a different flavor profile and nutritional content than cow's milk, often being fortified with vitamins and minerals to enhance its nutritional value.

In contrast, reduced fat milk, A2 milk, and full cream milk are all derived from cows and thus fall into the dairy category rather than being alternatives. Reduced fat and full cream milk refer to the fat content of cow's milk, while A2 milk specifically refers to a type of cow's milk that contains only the A2 beta-casein protein variant, but it is still a dairy product.