Problem: Calcium remains a nutrient of public health concern with around half of children and 40% of adults falling short of daily intake recommendations. USDA Economic Research Service data indicate that cow's milk consumption is falling while plant-based milk is growing in popularity. However, there are concerns that some plant based milk alternatives may be an inadequate substitute for cow's milk due to lower protein quality as well as lower amounts (and bioavailability) of key minerals, including calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc. Currently, fortified soy beverages are the only plant-based alternative deemed to be nutritionally equivalent to cow's milk in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. What are your thoughts on plant based milk? Do you think these are appropriate milk-substitutes for adults? Children? Why or why not?