Are you a fan of almond milk but concerned about the potential health risks of carrageenan?
You’re not alone.
Carrageenan, a common additive used as a stabilizer and thickening agent, has been linked to gastrointestinal issues and even tumor growth.
Many almond milk brands contain this controversial ingredient, leaving consumers wondering which ones to trust.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Almond Breeze milk and whether or not it contains carrageenan.
Plus, we’ll share tips on how to make your own carrageenan-free almond milk at home.
Say goodbye to bland and watery store-bought almond milk and hello to a healthier, homemade alternative.
Does Almond Breeze Milk Have Carrageenan?
Almond Breeze milk is a popular brand of almond milk that can be found in most grocery stores. But does it contain carrageenan?
The answer is yes, some varieties of Almond Breeze milk do contain carrageenan. This common additive, derived from seaweed, is used as a stabilizer and thickening agent in many dairy and faux-dairy products.
While the FDA has deemed carrageenan safe for consumption in small amounts, some studies have linked it to gastrointestinal issues and even tumor growth.
If you’re concerned about the potential health risks of carrageenan, it’s important to read the label before purchasing any almond milk or other dairy alternatives.
What Is Carrageenan And Why Is It Controversial?
Carrageenan is a natural extract derived from red seaweed. It is commonly used in food and non-food products as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer. It can be found in a variety of products, including meat and poultry, dairy products, canned pet food, cosmetics, and toothpaste.
Despite its widespread use, carrageenan is a controversial ingredient due to its potential health risks. While the FDA has approved it for consumption in small amounts, some studies have linked it to gastrointestinal issues such as inflammation and ulcerations. In addition, some animal studies have suggested that carrageenan may promote tumor growth.
As a result of these concerns, many consumers are opting for carrageenan-free alternatives, including almond milk. Blue Diamond Almond Breeze is one such brand that does not contain carrageenan, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
However, it’s important to note that more research needs to be done to fully understand the potential risks associated with carrageenan. In the meantime, consumers should read labels carefully and make informed decisions about the products they choose to consume.
Carrageenan In Almond Milk: Which Brands Use It?
Carrageenan can be found in many brands of almond milk, but not all. Some popular brands that have removed carrageenan from their products include Califia Farms Almond Milk and Oatmilk, as well as Silk Almond Milk. Blue Diamond Almond Breeze, on the other hand, still uses carrageenan in some of its products.
It’s important to note that there are different types of carrageenan, with the undergraded version deemed safe by the FDA for use in foods. However, the degraded version has been linked to inflammation and other health issues.
If you’re looking for carrageenan-free almond milk options, it’s best to do your research and read labels carefully. And if you’re concerned about the potential health risks of carrageenan, it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor.
How To Make Carrageenan-Free Almond Milk At Home
If you want to avoid carrageenan in your almond milk, the best way to do so is to make your own at home. Making almond milk at home is easy, and you only need a few ingredients and tools.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of raw or pre-soaked almonds
– 4 cups of filtered water
– 1 teaspoon of real maple syrup or raw honey (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Tools:
– High-speed blender
– Nut milk bag (or fine mesh strainer, or cheesecloth)
– Funnel
– Medium/large mason jar
Directions:
1. Soak the almonds in enough water to cover by 1 inch for at least 8 hours at room temperature. If you purchase pre-soaked almonds, then still give them a quick soak to soften them.
2. Place the soaked almonds in a high-speed blender with the water, and blend on high for 2 minutes or until you can no longer make out any almond chunks, about 90 seconds.
3. Place the funnel on your mason jar, and the nut milk bag in the funnel so the center of the nut milk bag is above the funnel opening and upper portions of the nut milk bag are draped over the rim of the funnel. Now pour the blended almond milk into the nut milk lined funnel so the pulp is caught at the top and the pure almond milk collects in the mason jar. If you don’t have a funnel, put the nut milk bag in a bowl and collect the milk there. Then, pour the milk into a rinsed blender container for easy pouring into your mason jar.
4. When there is a good amount of pulp collected at the top, take a pause from pouring to squeeze the pulp and extract all the liquid. Transfer the remaining dry pulp out of the funnel and then continue pouring the rest of the pulp-mixed almond milk and squeezing the pulp until you have transferred all the blended almond milk.
5. Optional: Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and maple syrup and blend another 10 seconds until incorporated.
By making your own almond milk at home, you can ensure that it is carrageenan-free and free from any other additives that you may be concerned about. Plus, it’s a fun and easy DIY project that can save you money in the long run.
Benefits Of Homemade Almond Milk And Other Plant-Based Milk Alternatives
If you’re looking to avoid carrageenan and other additives in your milk, making your own almond milk or trying other plant-based milk alternatives can be a great option.
Homemade almond milk is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. All you need are raw or pre-soaked almonds, filtered water, and a sweetener of your choice (such as maple syrup or raw honey). Soaking the almonds overnight helps to soften them and make them easier to blend.
Other plant-based milk alternatives include oat milk, coconut milk, and soy milk. While these milks may not have the same nutritional profile as cow’s milk, they can still offer some health benefits. For example, oat milk contains fiber and a little bit of protein, while coconut milk is rich in healthy fats.
Choosing non-dairy milk over cow’s milk can also be better for the environment, as animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
Ultimately, the best choice of milk for you will depend on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Experimenting with different types of plant-based milks and even making your own can help you find the perfect alternative to cow’s milk.
