Are you a fan of almond milk?
It’s a popular dairy-free alternative that’s loved by many. But have you ever wondered what’s in your almond milk? Specifically, does Alpro Almond Milk contain carrageenan?
This common ingredient, derived from seaweed, is frequently found in almond milk and other dairy or faux-dairy products and is used as a stabilizer and thickening agent. However, there’s a lot of evidence stating that carrageenan can be extremely harmful to one’s health, especially if consumed regularly.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Alpro Almond Milk and whether or not it contains carrageenan. Plus, we’ll provide some tips on how to make your own carrageenan-free almond milk at home.
So, let’s dive in!
Does Alpro Almond Milk Contain Carrageenan?
After conducting some research, we can confirm that Alpro Almond Milk in the UK is carrageenan-free. This means that if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative to milk that doesn’t contain this potentially harmful ingredient, Alpro Almond Milk is a good choice.
However, it’s important to note that not all almond milk brands are created equal. Some brands still contain carrageenan, so it’s important to read the label before making your purchase. If you’re unsure whether or not a brand contains carrageenan, a quick internet search can provide you with the information you need.
What Is Carrageenan And Why Is It Used In Almond Milk?
Carrageenan is a substance derived from red seaweed that is commonly used in the food industry as a thickening and stabilizing agent. It is added to many dairy and non-dairy products, including almond milk, to give them a fuller consistency and prevent ingredients from separating. Carrageenan has been in use in food products since the 1930s, and in 2012, the National Organics Standard Board allowed its use in organic food production for another five years.
Despite its widespread use, the safety of carrageenan has been called into question in recent years. Some studies suggest that it may be harmful to the gastrointestinal tract and can even promote tumor growth. For this reason, many health experts recommend avoiding products that contain carrageenan.
It’s worth noting that carrageenan is not inherently bad or toxic. It is a natural substance extracted from seaweed, and in small amounts, it is generally considered safe. However, some people may be more sensitive to carrageenan than others, and it’s important to be aware of its potential risks when consuming products that contain it.
If you’re concerned about the presence of carrageenan in your food, be sure to read labels carefully and choose products that are free from this ingredient. Making your own almond milk at home is also a great way to ensure that you know exactly what’s going into your food.
The Controversy Surrounding Carrageenan
Carrageenan is a common food additive that has been used for decades as a thickener and emulsifier in dairy and non-dairy products. It’s extracted from red seaweed and has also been used in pharmaceuticals, toothpaste, aerosol sprays, and other products. However, there is a growing controversy surrounding the safety of carrageenan.
Animal studies have linked carrageenan to the risk of inflammation, digestive diseases, and even cancer, raising concerns about its safety. While the FDA still recognizes food-grade carrageenan as safe, The National Organic Standards Board voted to remove carrageenan from the list of substances approved for use in food items labeled “USDA Organic” in 2016. Carrageenan is scheduled to sunset from the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances – a component of the organic standards – in November 2018.
Despite this controversy, there is a lack of consensus about whether the scientific studies done to date are conclusive about the effect on human health of consuming carrageenan. While small amounts of carrageenan may be fine for human consumption, it’s best to avoid this controversial food additive whenever possible.
If you’re concerned about consuming carrageenan, it’s important to read labels carefully before making your purchase. Many almond milk brands still contain carrageenan, so it’s important to do your research and choose a brand that is carrageenan-free.
Other Brands Of Almond Milk That Contain Carrageenan
While Alpro Almond Milk is carrageenan-free, there are still some popular brands of almond milk that contain this ingredient. One such brand is Almond Dream Original Unsweetened Almond Drink, which still adds carrageenan to their almond milk, according to Haber Brondo. This brand has received criticism for continuing to use carrageenan while other brands have removed it.
Another brand that contains carrageenan is Silk Almond Milk. While Silk has removed carrageenan from some of their products, their original and unsweetened almond milk still contains this ingredient. It’s important to note that Silk has defended the use of carrageenan, stating that it is safe and approved by the FDA.
If you’re looking for a carrageenan-free alternative to Silk or Almond Dream, there are several other options available. Califia Farms Almond Milk and Oatmilk are both carrageenan-free and highly recommended by many consumers. Blue Diamond Almond Breeze is another popular brand that is carrageenan-free and fortified with vitamins and minerals.
How To Make Your Own Carrageenan-Free Almond Milk At Home
Making your own carrageenan-free almond milk at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe that only requires a few ingredients and a high-speed blender:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of raw or pre-soaked almonds
– 4 cups of filtered water, plus more for soaking
– 1 teaspoon of real maple syrup or raw honey
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
You will also need:
– Nut milk bag (or fine mesh strainer, or cheesecloth)
– Funnel
– Blender
– 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. Drain the soaked almonds and rinse them well. (Discard the soaking water.)
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Optional: Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and maple syrup and blend another 10 seconds until incorporated.
7. Store your homemade almond milk in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Making your own almond milk not only ensures that it’s carrageenan-free, but also allows you to control what goes into it and adjust it to your taste preferences. Give it a try and see how easy it can be to make your own dairy-free milk alternative at home!
Conclusion: Is Alpro Almond Milk Safe To Drink?
Based on the information we have gathered, Alpro Almond Milk is a safe and healthy option for those who want to avoid carrageenan. This plant-based milk is naturally low in sugar and high in vitamin E, making it a great choice for those who are trying to manage their weight and limit their risk of certain chronic diseases. Additionally, Alpro Almond Milk is lactose and cholesterol free, making it a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or have high cholesterol levels.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that almond milk alone may not provide significant sources of protein. If you’re looking to increase your protein intake, you may want to consider other options such as soy milk or animal milk. Additionally, commercially sold almond milks may contain synthetic chemicals that can contribute to chronic disease. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to read the label and opt for homemade almond milk whenever possible.
