If you’ve shopped for milk lately, chances are you’ve seen the non-dairy milk selection growing. These have increased in popularity over the past few years and they’re almost just as common in kitchens as dairy milk. These choices have become so popular that companies have expanded the options offered. There’s not a true, regulatory definition for non-dairy milk, but these are typically alternatives for the standard dairy milk options in stores. We’ve broken down the most popular non-dairy milk options you can choose from in your local store.
When comparing dairy to non-dairy milk, non-dairy milk is a bit more complicated. This comes from the fact that there is a variety of different plant sources that can be blended into a non-dairy milk. Commercial non-dairy milk beverages are fortified with vitamins and minerals – they don’t occur naturally. Calcium, potassium, vitamin D and other nutrients are added at varying levels. If you’re trying to avoid sugars, look for the unsweetened varieties. This varies by brand and type of milk, so be sure to check the labels. Pro tip: When using non-dairy milk, make sure to give it a good shake before using because the calcium can settle into the bottom of the container.
Soy: Soy milk was the first non-dairy option available in stores. Instead of milk from a cow, this option is made from soy beans or soy protein isolate. Most of the time, the milk has an additive like a thickener or vegetable oil to help improve the taste and consistency. Of all the non-dairy milks, soy milk has the most protein with 7 grams per cup. Dairy milk has 8 grams per cup. This classic option isn’t quite as sweet as its popular counterpart almond milk, but is mild and creamy.
Almond: Almond milk was introduced after soy milk and became a staple in many households. The non-dairy milk is made with a blend of almonds and water, and it has a smooth flavor and light texture. The flavoring and texture work well when added into coffee or used as a substitute for cow’s milk in desserts.
Cashew: Cashew milk has a slightly different taste from almond milk, but a very mild flavor. The great thing is that it plays well with others and really helps flavors shine when added into other things like cereal and coffee. It has a similar consistency to skim milk, so it’s pretty thin, but has a smoothness similar to whole cow’s milk.
Oat: Oat milk is made from a mixture of oats and water, but brands typically add in things like salt and oils to help give the milk more flavor. The milk is mild and sweet in flavor. Tastewise, this milk is the closest to dairy milk and works well in coffee.
Coconut: The coconut milk you buy in the refrigerated section isn’t the same as the coconut milk that comes in a can. The coconut milk you’ll find among the non-dairy milk is made with a mix of water and coconut cream, which is what gives it its creamy texture. Mixing the cream with water gives the milk a very mild flavor compared to some of its counterparts and allows it to work well in smoothies.
Check out all the non-dairy milks we offer in our stores! Go behind the scenes of the products you love with these blogs!
Cow’s milk is still nutritionally superior to alternative imitators, choices are fine as long as people know the are not getting equivatent nutrient.