What does it mean that this machine has an alternative milk cycle?

The KitchenAid Fully automatic espresso machine KF8 has a unique plant-based mode.

This cycle is programmed to understand the differences between plant based alternatives and traditional dairy milk. It adjusts the amount of air and steam for the different fat and protein contents to provide a creamy, stable foam.

Why is this needed? Because plant-based drinks typically have less fat and protein than dairy milk and therefore, more air is needed at the start of the steaming process to produce a stable foam. KitchenAid's unique plant based option has the ability to product microfoam from common alternatives like Oat, Almond, Soy and Coconut. Be sure to select plant-based mode when you make it.