If you are trying to avoid conventional dairy then finding a great replacement can be a somewhat of a daunting challenge. Fortunately, thanks to the modern world we now live in, there is a plethora of varieties of milk to select from including: many types of nut, coconut, rice, oat and soy. However, sometimes having too much choice can only add to the confusion of selecting which brand and type of milk to go for.
To save you time and energy, we have provided an up to date guide of how to be a savvy, smart and successful non dairy shopper – whether you are vegan, lactose intolerant, or just interested in trying something different -this is a great place to get informed on what you want to avoid, and what you defiantly want to check out! The best milk should be one that is great for your health without sacrificing on taste and consistency. Life is too short to drink bad cups of tea and coffee.
What to avoid:
Isolated Vitamins
These are synthetic and isolated forms of vitamins that are often poorly absorbed and do not replace the nutrients you would find in their wholefood form that naturally supplies the relevant co-factors. If you know you are deficient in certain vitamins it is best to work with one of our expert Nutritionists to find out how you can best support your diet.
Carrageenan
This is originally made from red algae and is commonly utilised in foods as a thickener or stabiliser. However the forms used today have been isolated and refined and there are some concerns that it an indigestible polysaccharide as in some animal studies it has been shown to be linked with intestinal damage.
Added sugar/sweeteners
Always try to buy milk that is free of sugar and added sweeteners. Often we don’t realise how often sugar is sneaked in to hijack our taste buds. Plus grains, beans and nuts contain a naturally sweet taste that is satisfying on its own once you get used to consuming a low sugar diet. Moreover, it is best to add in your own healthier, sweetening options such as raw honey as you are therefore more in control of your daily intake and can monitor any blood sugar disturbances.
Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil is very high in processed omega 6 polyunsaturated fats which can be harmful if consumed in excess and it is also also not as heat stable as other fats which makes it less good to be mixed with hot beverages, such as a cup of coffee. A little is fine but if you want to drink a lot of your non-dairy milk it maybe best to search for one without.
GMO Soy
Don’t be scarred of being picky when it comes to consuming soya products. Soya is one of the most genetically modified plants in the world. There is a lack of research to show that eating GMO foods is safe in the long term. With soy it is always best to go for organic.
Five Non Dairy Milks to check out
Rude Health Coconut Drink
Delicious and creamy this milk is organic and contains no artificial ingredients. It’s naturally sweet and smooth and does not curdle when added to porridge, grains or in your hot chocolate, Latte. The rice gives a sweet flavour but the coconut (rich in monounsaturated fat) really helps provide a taste of satiating richness.
Ingredients: Natural spring water, Organic rice, Organic coconut butter and Sea Salt.
Royal Green Rice and Coconut Milk
This is another delectable unsweetened coconut and rice milk that contains simple ingredients. It is slightly less rich than Rude Health Coconut Drink and has a naturally sweeter flavour and lighter texture.
Ingredients: water, certified organic Italian rice, coconut puree and a pinch of sea salt.
Bon Soy
If you are interested in trying a soya milk then Bon Soy is a great choice. Their milk is made from organic beans that are cooked in an authentic less processed way to give the milk it’s natural mellow, unsweetened flavour. Another great benefit of this milk is that is does not separate when heated so makes great cups of warm beverages.
Ingredients: Water, Organic Soybeans 15%, Tapioca Starch, Sea salt, Japanese barley, Calcium Carbonate.
Provamel Organic Oat Milk
This oat milk is rich and creamy rather than watery. The oats give it a naturally sweet flavour and when heated the milk does not separate. It tastes really good in your classic mug of British tea. Although it contains sunflower oil, this should not be a concern unless you are choosing to consume a lot of the milk as it is made other very simple ingredients.
Ingredients: water oats* (12%) sunflower oil* dietary fibre (inulin)*sea salt
Plenish Almond Milk
Plenish Almond Milk is light and scrumptious with a distinct nutty flavour. As it contains almonds, it is also a source of protein. This milk is great added to smoothies but slightly curdles when added to hot beverages. It has just three simple ingredients organic almonds, filtered water, Himalayan salt and that’s it. This brand also does a delicious Cashew Milk that is definitely worth a try.
Ingredients: Organic Almonds, filtered water, himalayan salt
Conclusion
Don’t be afraid to experiment with a few of these different milks until you find your personal favourite. Remember, when shopping for non-dairy milks always read the labels, and look for simple, minimum, recognisable ingredients.
