Comparative Analysis of Heavy Metals and Minerals in Dairy and Plant-Based Milk Alternatives Available in Pakistan's Markets.

This study evaluated heavy metals and minerals concentrations in dairy and plant-based milk alternatives available in Pakistan using ICP-MS. A total of 324 raw milk samples (cow, buffalo, goat, sheep, camel), 48 heat-treated samples (UHT, pasteurized, powdered), and 21 plant-based milk (coconut, almond, soy, oat, rice, walnut, cashew) were analyzed. Results showed significant differences in heavy metal levels across milk types. Chromium was the most common heavy metal in raw milk, especially in buffalo milk (0.16 mg L-1). Heat-treated milk had lower heavy metal concentrations than raw milk, with pasteurized milk showing higher cadmium levels (0.08 mg L-1). Among plant-based milk, oat milk had the lowest heavy metal concentration (0.02 mg L-1), while powdered milk had the least contamination overall. Findings highlight the need for stringent quality control to ensure safety and nutritional standards in dairy and plant-based milk products.