Safe to say, plant-based milks are having their moment in the sun (and our cups).

Now, a new study has said when it comes to alternatives to traditional dairy, it might pack the best punch.

Camel milk ‘a good alternative to traditional dairy’

“These bioactive peptides can selectively inhibit certain pathogens, and by doing so, create a healthy gut environment and also has the potential to decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease in future.”

“Nutritionally, it’s naturally low in fat, it’s low in lactose, and it’s higher in calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and it even has Vitamin C in it,” Williams told SBS News.

Another study from the University of Melbourne in 2022 found it could have another use as a part of treatment for those with type 2 diabetes. Researchers found camel milk contains insulin and insulin-like peptides that might work to help someone with diabetes maintain a healthy level of glucose.

Camel milk, cheese, and even ice cream

By 2020, there were seven certified camel milk dairy farms in Australia.

Around 81 per cent of global milk production is sourced from cows, with camel milk production sitting in fifth place, behind buffaloes, goats and sheep. Camel milk only accounts for around 0.4 per cent of milk production globally.

Other milk is ‘just as good’

She said one caveat is to ensure that it’s pasteurised: “You’ve got to make sure it’s pasteurised because bacteria does grow in the milk.”

“In terms of all the different animal milks that are available on the market, they’re all going to provide a different benefit. The most important thing from a nutritional perspective is that they’ve got calcium in them because that is where we get calcium in our diet.”

“But in terms of other people who might find it culturally difficult to consume camel milk because the taste may be so different, there’s nothing wrong with continuing to drink the milk that you’re currently drinking, the dairy milk.”