Bengaluru, 7 Aug

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India and Aashray Foundation took to the streets of Bengaluru on Wednesday to protest against dairy consumption.

The protest, marking World Breastfeeding Week (1 to 7 August), was held at World War Memorial in Ashok Nagar. Two supporters donned 2.5-metre-tall inflatable baby costumes to deliver a message: “Milk Is for Babies! Dump Dairy.” They distributed packets of ice-cold mylk (plant-based milk) from Nourish You company.

The campaign highlights the similarity between human and animal lactation. Dr Kiran Ahuja, PETA India’s Nutritionist and Manager of Vegan Projects, said, “Just like human mothers, cows produce milk only to feed their young. But their calves are torn away from them so that the nourishment meant for them can be stolen and sold to humans.”

Dr Ahuja urged people to embrace plant-based alternatives. PETA India emphasised the health and environmental benefits of a dairy-free diet. According to Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, vegans are at a reduced risk of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.

Additionally, research from the University of Oxford indicates that a plant-based diet can significantly reduce an individual's carbon footprint by up to 73 per cent. “For those seeking dairy alternatives, a wide range of plant-based mylks — made from nuts, oats, seeds, millet, soy, rice, and more — are available, offering both nutritional benefits and taste,” PETA said. –Salar News