Non-Dairy Milk Alternatives
I’ve had a few of you ask for a review of all the milk options, and I figured it was about time to share my thoughts. I’ve tried basically all the non-dairy milk alternatives that are out there. I’ll highlight my three favorites, and why I like them. Since dairy and I aren’t always the best of friends and it sometimes upsets my stomach, I’ve been using these types of milk for years. So here we go.
First of all…
Disclaimer: I don’t drink any of these straight up. I’ve never liked milk (in a glass) and I don’t drink any of these on their own. However, I frequently use these milks in cereal, smoothies, and recipes. Just keep that in mind. None of these will *taste* just like dairy milk.
First up, Almond milk
My overall favorite! The unsweetened varieties have a great mild taste, (meaning they work well in recipes and smoothies) and they are super low in fat and calories. I love using almond milk in soups, smoothies, and baking. As long as you’re not allergic to almonds, I’d definitely give this one a try. Almond Breeze is a great brand, but Trader Joe’s version is great as well. I’ve even made my own (you can read about that here) but it’s a little easier to just grab it off the shelf.
Basic nutritional stats: Calories 30 Fat 1g Sugar 0g Protein 1g*
*Note: There are tons of varieties for almond/coconut/soymilk but I’ve included the stats for the flavors pictured.
Secondly, Coconut milk
There are lots of types of coconut milk. There are very, very, sweet varieties, which are generally more for recipes, not for actual drinking. However, So Delicious makes a great brand of coconut milk that I love. The taste is a little coconut-y, so it’s less versatile for recipes and smoothies, unless that’s the flavor you’re going for. It can be great for tropical smoothies or ice cream recipes! Do check the labels though, because the calories, sugar and fat can range from very low to very high!
Basic nutritional stats: Calories 50 Fat 5g Sugar 1g Protein 1g
And third… Soymilk
I like the taste of soymilk, and I used to use it a lot of smoothies. It has more protein than the others, and the unsweetened kind doesn’t have a lot of sugar. However, because I also eat tofu and other soy products, I’ve switched to almond milk. I’ve heard a few things about too much soy consumption, and I’d rather stay on the safe side. If you don’t eat a lot of soy otherwise, this could be a great way to get in some extra protein. I love Silk and 8th Continent brands. Again, check the labels, since the sweetened varieties can pack in a lot of sugar and calories.
Basic nutritional stats: Calories 70 Fat .51g Sugar 5g Protein 6g
Rice milk/Hemp milk/Cashew milk/Etc.
There are tons of other types of milk. I’ve tried almost all of them, and I don’t mind them, but many of them have a bit of a funky after taste. Some of them are a little gritty. If you have specific diet restrictions, you could try these, but overall, I can’t say I personally recommend them.
If you’re watching calories, make sure you look for unsweetened varieties! Some milk alternatives are loaded with sugar! Beware!
Has anyone ever tried freezing almond milk? I can never use up a half gallon before it goes bad, and I cannot find Almond Breeze in smaller amounts…
I’m not sure how it works with almond milk but I’ve heard with coconut milk you can freeze it, you just need to use an immersion blender when you thaw it, because the fat can separate.
Oh, thanks very much for posting this! It is going to be so helpful when I get Coconut Milk online! Amazing!
I have been looking for a good non-dairy alternative to milk for a long time. I began with soy, moved to coconut, then almond, but my new favorite is unsweetened hemp milk it combines well with the Vegan protein I’m using in the mornings. I also enjoy a splash in my coffee, but I practically drink mine black, so I’m not sure if it’s the best soy for someone who is accustomed to milk or half-and-half.
I made the switch because dairy inflames my allergies. Ever since I cut dairy out of my diet, I noticed I have less bloat and more energy.
I’ve only tried hemp milk once so I think I ought to try it again! I drink my coffee mostly black, too 🙂
I’ve seen a lot of soy milk lovers and not to stear you away from it but make sure its ORGANIC! the chemical altered soy can create breast cancer and other issues. I developed lumps in my breasts from drinking a soy protein daily. They were thankfully non cancerous and went away after 6 months. But now I have to be watched. I was 28 at the time. I love almond and coconut milk! Organic soy milk for the toddler. My 7 year old likes almond milk in her cereal.