Almond milk lacks iodine, warn experts

People who don't eat bread and eggs and only drink almond or soy milk are at risk of being iodine deficient.

Dietitians have issued a warning about the importance of eating iodine-rich foods as dairy-free milk alternatives, such as almond milk, increase in trend.

Cow's milk is a source of iodine, containing a bit over 22 micrograms (ug) in a "standard" serve, says Natasha Murray, Accredited Practising Dietitian and spokesperson for the Dietitians Association of Australia.

Almond milk only contains 0.23 ug.

"So it is significantly different and a lot of companies do supplement the calcium in their products but not necessarily the micro-nutrients like iodine," said Murray.

While cow's milk is not the only source of iodine its absence in the diet could be contributing to iodine deficiency and a greater awareness is needed, says Murray.

"Iodine in general has been a public health concern for a few years now, so much so that actually in Australia we fortify our bread with iodine," she said.

"The reason iodine is so important is because it is really important for healthy thyroid function, so that regulates our metabolism.

"For pregnant women in particular it actually affects brain development and IQ of the children and not many people are aware of that," she added.

The good news is that iodine comes from other food sources, not just milk.

These include eggs, seaweed, seafood – particularly white fish – and vegetables grown in iodine-rich soil.

"As long as people are eating a wide variety of foods from all the other food groups, including your eggs, your seaweed, your seafood – and we do recommend people eat two serves of fish a week - they will more than likely be meeting their iodine intake,"

Eating "commercial" bread is also important.

"Vegans could be at risk because they don't eat eggs, they may also make their own breads to minimise exposure to milk proteins," said Murray.

If people are worried about their iodine intake they should consult their doctor or seek advice from a dietitian, she said.

AAP