A recent Food Navigator article discusses a report by Allied Market Research that found global sales of milk alternatives soaring.

Global sales are expected to reach $21.7 billion in the next six years, with North America leading the charge. Sales of almond milk are projected to be the fastest growing.

Allied Market Research claims fighting obesity is the main reason so many North Americans are ditching dairy. While the move away from dairy is certainly gaining speed, it is undoubtedly part of a larger trend. Since 1970, cow's milk consumption has fallen a whopping 40 percent in the U.S., while sales of nondairy milk alternatives have skyrocketed by 30 percent since 2011.

A major report by market researcher IBISWorld found that nondairy milks are also booming in Australia. The country’s vegan milk industry has an estimated value of $153 million and is projected to reach $35 billion by 2024.

The decline in cow’s milk consumption is great news for cows and our planet. Cows on dairy farms are treated terribly, often beaten and neglected, and dairy production is a major contributor of greenhouse gas emissions.

Luckily, by adopting a healthy and humane vegan diet, consumers are able to withdraw their financial support from farmers who routinely abuse animals.