Non-Dairy Territory

Exploring plant-based milk options for your coffee  
 

Until recently, when you ordered a cup of coffee or made one at home, it was a given that the milk you poured in it was from a cow! However, today many coffee houses ask you what 'milk' you would like in your coffee. And the options are not cow, goat, or buffalo. Instead, it is usually almond, soy or oats. What has brought about this change? Are plant-based milk better? Do they alter the flavour of the coffee? Let us find out in this blog.    

Why do people choose alternative milk 

There are many reasons why people choose non-dairy milk. Here are some of the most common reasons:   

Lactose intolerance:  

Many people are lactose intolerant. This means they cannot digest lactose, which is the sugar found in cow's milk. This can cause stomach problems like bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. The severity of the condition varies from person to person. Even so, lactose intolerant folk prefer to avoid dairy products.    

Milk allergies:  

Some people are allergic to the milk proteins such as casein or whey. This can cause a range of symptoms. While some break out in skin rashes or hives, others have digestive issues. So, it is best if they find other options.   

Veganism and plant-based diets:  

Today many people follow vegan or plant-based diets. Hence, they do not eat any animal products. This includes cow's milk. Choosing to be a vegan is a personal choice. Some people go vegan to lose weight. Others do so out of concern for the planet. This brings us to the next point. 

Environmental concerns:  

The dairy industry has a significant impact on the environment. It uses a lot of land, water, and produces greenhouse gases. Some people choose non-dairy milk to help reduce their environmental impact.  

Health and nutrition:  

For those looking to lose weight, going off dairy is often step one. Some people choose non-dairy milk because it is lower in saturated fat than cow's milk. Mostly seeds and nuts are the sources of non-dairy milk. Hence, they have the added health benefits.  

Taste and variety:  

There are many different flavours of non-dairy milk. This depends on their source. The variety gives people the chance to taste and find the ones they like. Each type has its own texture and flavour. You can choose one type of milk for your coffee, another for desserts and so on.  

Digestive issues:  

Many people experience tummy discomfort with cow's milk. It may not be as severe as lactose intolerance. Still, it is enough to make them avoid milk. Non-dairy milk does not cause as many digestive problems as cow's milk. Hence the thumbs up! 

Concerns about hormones and antibiotics:  

There is a growing concern about the use of hormones and antibiotics in dairy farming. Hence some people choose non-dairy milk to avoid these substances. 

Let Us Skim through Plant based Milk  

There are plenty of choices, but we are taking a closer look at the Top 5 non-dairy milk options:  

#1 Soy Milk 

Soy milk is a drink made from soybeans. Soybeans are tiny beans that grow on soy plants. People make soy milk by grinding the soybeans and adding water. The result is a creamy, white liquid. 

 
Flavour 

Soy milk has a mild and slightly nutty taste. Some people say it tastes like beans, but others find it smooth and enjoyable. Some brands also add sweeteners or flavours to make it taste even better. 

Texture 

The texture of soy milk is a bit thicker than cow's milk but not as thick as a milkshake. It is smooth and can be a little creamy, which some people like. 

Suitable for Coffee 

Yes, soy milk is suitable for making coffee. Many people use soy milk as a dairy-free option to add to their coffee. When you pour soy milk into coffee, it can make it taste creamy and a bit nutty. It is a good choice for people who cannot or do not want to drink cow's milk. 

Soy Milk's Stretch 

Soy milk is a popular alternative to dairy milk because it has a good stretch. This indicates its ability to make foam, which means that this is important for baristas, who use foam to create latté art and other coffee drinks. 

The stretch of soy milk is due to its proteins. Soybeans contain proteins that are like the proteins in dairy milk. Upon heating, these proteins form a network that traps air bubbles. This is what creates the foam. Baristas who are knowledgeable about soy milk can produce a foam that is just as good as the foam of dairy milk.  

Benefits of Soy Milk 

• Soy milk is free from lactose and milk proteins. This makes it a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have milk allergies.   

• It is a good source of protein, which helps your muscles grow and stay strong.  

• Soy milk contains calcium, which is vital for healthy bones and teeth. 

• Some studies suggest that soy may have heart health benefits. This is because it lowers bad cholesterol levels.  

Things to Keep in Mind  

• Soy milk is a suitable alternative to cow's milk. However, it has a distinct flavour that takes getting used to. It is all about personal taste!  

• Some soymilk products may have added sugars. So, it is a good idea to check the label if you are trying to avoid added sugar. 

 

#2 Oat Milk 

We get Oat milk from oats, which are whole grains. You might have seen oats in oatmeal or granola bars. To make oat milk, you mix oats with water and blend them together until they become a smooth, creamy liquid.  
 

Flavour 

Oat milk has a mild and slightly sweet flavour. Some people say it tastes like oats, like the taste of oatmeal. It is not too overpowering, so many people enjoy it. 

 

Texture 

The texture of oat milk is creamy and smooth, just like regular milk. It is a bit thicker than skimmed milk, but not as thick as a milkshake. Some people like its velvety texture.  
 

Suitable for Coffee 

Yes, oat milk is suitable for making coffee! It has become very popular as a coffee creamer because it adds a creamy and slightly sweet taste to your coffee. It is a great option if you do not want to use cow's milk or other dairy products. 
 

Oat Milk's Stretch 

When foamed, Oat milk may produce larger bubbles than dairy milk. This is because it has a lower protein content. While the proteins in dairy milk help to stabilise the foam, the proteins in oat milk do not.  
 

Oat milk may also take longer to foam and steam than cow's milk. Oat milk may not foam as well as dairy milk; it can still produce a foam that is substantial enough to create latté art. 

 

Benefits of Oat Milk
 

• Oat milk is completely free from dairy. Hence it is a great option for people who are lactose intolerant or have milk allergies.   

• It is a useful source of fibre, which helps with digestion and keeps your tummy happy.  

• Oat milk contains vitamins and minerals, like vitamin D and calcium. These nutrients are essential for strong bones and a healthy body. 

• Oats are a sustainable crop, so oat milk may be a good choice for the environment.
     

Things to Keep in Mind 

• Some oat milk products may have added sugars. If you are watching your sugar intake read the label carefully. 

• If you have a gluten allergy, be careful to choose oat milk that is labelled as gluten-free. Sometimes oats are processed with gluten-containing grains.

#3 Almond Milk 

To make almond milk, grind up almonds and mix them with water until they become a smooth, creamy liquid. 

 
Flavour 

Almond milk has a mild and slightly nutty flavour. Some people say it tastes like almonds, but it is not too strong. It is a gentle and enjoyable taste. 

  

Texture 

The texture of almond milk is smooth and a bit watery. It is not as thick as regular cow's milk, but it still feels nice and silky when you drink it.  
 

Suitable for coffee 

Yes, almond milk is great for making coffee. Many people use almond milk as a dairy-free option to add to their coffee. It gives coffee a creamy and nutty taste that many enjoy.  
 

Almond Milk's Stretch 

Almond milk produces a silky foam when frothed. However, the foam tends to separate when heated. This means that latté art made with almond milk may look nice on top, but the drink underneath may be watery.  
 

The reason for this is that almond milk has a lower protein content than dairy milk. Proteins help to stabilise foam. When you heat almond milk, its proteins denature and the foam breaks.  
 

Benefits of Almond Milk
 

• Almond milk is an excellent choice for people who cannot have dairy products.
    
• It is low in calories, which can be helpful if you are watching your weight.
    
• Almond milk contains vitamin E, which is good for your skin and helps protect your cells.
    

Things to Keep in Mind 

• If you have a nut allergy, almond milk may not be the best option for you. In that case, you can try other plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk.
    
• Some almond milk products have added sugars. So, it is a good idea to check the label if you want to avoid extra sugar in your diet.
     

#4 Coconut Milk 

To make coconut milk, you blend the white part inside the coconut, called the "coconut meat", with water. This makes a creamy liquid.
 

Flavour 

Coconut milk has a rich and sweet coconut flavour. Some people say it tastes like a tropical party in your mouth! It has a fun and delicious taste. 

  

Texture 

The texture of coconut milk is creamy and smooth, like a milkshake. It is thicker than regular cow's milk, and it feels luxurious when you drink it. 

  

Suitable for Coffee 

Yes, coconut milk is perfect for making coffee! Many people use coconut milk as a dairy-free option to add to their coffee. It gives coffee a delightful coconutty taste. The flavour makes you feel like you are sipping an alluring drink on a beautiful island. 

 
Coconut Milk's Stretch 

Coconut milk has a lower protein content than dairy milk. Nevertheless, with practice you can make it foam using a steam wand or a frother. With the right frothing method, you can create foam that is suitable for latté art.  
 

Benefits of Coconut Milk 

• Coconut milk is free of dairy. Hence it is a wonderful choice for people who cannot have dairy.
    
• It is full of healthy fats, which can give you energy and make you feel full and satisfied.
    
• Coconut milk has vitamins and minerals, like iron, which helps keep your body strong.

Things to Keep in Mind 
 

• If you do not like the taste of coconut, then coconut milk might not be the best option for you. You can try other plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk.
    
• Some coconut milk products may have added sugars. Be wary of added sugar content.
    

#5 Rice Milk 

To make rice milk, we mix rice with water and blend them until they turn into a smooth, liquidy goodness. 

Flavour 

Rice milk has a mild and slightly sweet flavour, like the taste of rice itself. It is not too strong, so many people enjoy it.  

 

Texture 

The texture of rice milk is light and thin, like skimmed milk. It is not as creamy as cow's milk, but it still feels smooth and refreshing.  
 

Suitable for Coffee 

Yes, you can make coffee with rice milk. It might not make your coffee as creamy as other milks, but it can still add a nice touch of sweetness. 

 
Rice Milk's Stretch 

Rice milk does not have enough protein to create foam.  
 

Benefits of Rice Milk 
 

• Rice milk is a smart choice for people who cannot have dairy.
    
• It is naturally free from cholesterol, which is good for your heart and blood vessels. 

• Rice milk has vitamins and minerals, like vitamin B, which helps your body turn food into energy.
   

Things to Keep in Mind 

• If you have a gluten allergy, be careful to choose rice milk that is labelled as gluten-free.
    
• Some rice milk products may have added sugars.

 
Dairy milk and non-dairy milk: Pros and cons 

For medical reasons or based on personal preference people pick the type of milk they want. There are pros and cons to both. Being aware of these can help you make an informed decision on which way to go. 

Dairy Milk - Pros

• Dairy milk is a reliable source of calcium and protein. They are important for building strong bones and muscles. 

• It is easily accessible and commonly available in most stores.
   
• Some people love the taste of dairy milk, finding it creamy and familiar. 

• It is a traditional choice for many, and is an important part of their daily diet. 

Dairy Milk - Cons  

• Some people are lactose intolerant. This means they cannot digest the sugar in dairy milk, leading to tummy troubles.

• Dairy milk can cause allergies in some people, causing skin rashes, hives, and other issues.

• The dairy industry has a big environmental impact. It generates greenhouse gases and uses a lot of land and water.  

• Dairy milk contains saturated fat. This might not be good for heart health if consumed in large amounts. 

  

Non-Dairy Milk - Pros

• Non-dairy milk is best for people who are lactose intolerant or have milk allergies. It does not contain those problematic proteins making it a safer bet.

• Plant-based milks, like almond, soy, or oat milk, often have less saturated fat, thus, making them a healthier choice.

• Non-dairy milk offers a variety of flavours. This allows people to explore new tastes. 

• Producing plant-based milks has a lower impact on the planet. Hence making it a more environmentally friendly option.  

Non-Dairy Milk - Cons

• Some non-dairy milks might not have as much calcium and protein as dairy milk. Hence it is important to check for fortified options. 

• Non-dairy milk may not be as readily available in all stores, depending on where you live. 

• Some people might not like the taste or texture of certain non-dairy milks. 

• Plant-based milks can be more expensive than regular dairy milk. 

 

Both dairy milk and non-dairy milk have their own pros and cons. The best milk option for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you are lactose intolerant or have milk allergies, then non-dairy milk is a viable choice.  

But we do recommend that you try several types of milk to see what you like best. At the same time, ensure it has enough nutrients for your well-being. There are many brands and flavours of both dairy milk and non-dairy milk available. Find the one that delights your tastebuds and enjoy!