Start with the meal
Choose two drinks you would actually use in the same cereal bowl, coffee or recipe. Taste, price and dietary needs matter too. The name of a plant source does not tell you the whole nutrient profile. The FDA comparison guide explains that plant drinks vary by source and added ingredients. This is a shopping method, not a ranking of brands.
Match the printed amount
Turn both cartons to their nutrition panels. Compare values for the same volume, such as the printed amount per 100 millilitres if both labels show it. If serving sizes differ, adjust the comparison or choose two labels with the same serving volume. Check the units before deciding one number is larger. Local labels use different layouts and fields.
Check protein and fortification
Read the protein amount rather than assuming oat, soy and almond drinks are equivalent. If the drink takes the place of dairy in your meal, also check whether calcium and vitamin D are listed and how much is present. The FDA labeling overview notes that nutritional profiles vary. A fortified carton is not automatically the best choice for every person or meal.
Read sugar and ingredients
Compare the sugar information printed on your local cartons, including added sugar where that field exists. Then read the ingredient and allergen information for anything you need to avoid. A sweetened drink may suit one recipe and not another. Do not apply a United States label rule to a package sold elsewhere. Choose based on the real product in your hand.
Make a useful choice
Write down the tradeoff you care about: protein for a breakfast, a certain ingredient to avoid, or a taste that works in coffee. Recheck the carton when you buy it again because recipes can change. For another food comparison, see how to compare plain yogurt labels. For a full meal, see building a balanced meal. Fitonomy is a place to explore meal and activity ideas, without claiming it analyzes these cartons.