Recognition of Soy Milk Is Reason Lawsuit Is Dropped

February 15, 2000

The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) has dropped its suit challenging the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, saying the guidelines' recognition of soy milk as a calcium source is enough to satisfy the group. Part of the suit alleged conflicts of interest within the advisory committee and claimed some members were linked to the dairy industry.

"For the first time, a dietary guidelines advisory committee has acknowledged what many prevention-minded health professionals have long known: fortified soy milk is a nutritious source of calcium and other nutrients," says Mindy S. Kursban, PCRM staff counsel. The committee also recognized that dairy consumption "is not necessary or appropriate for everyone," and that people who are lactose intolerant should choose other calcium-rich foods.

PCRM says the guidelines have long favored dairy products over other sources of calcium such as calcium-fortified soy milk and fruit juices, tofu, legumes or green leafy vegetables.