Are you a fan of Starbucks’ non-dairy milk options?
If so, you may have heard that they recently added almond milk to their menu. But with all the controversy surrounding additives like carrageenan, you may be wondering if this new milk alternative is safe to consume.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ingredients in Starbucks’ almond milk and compare it to their other non-dairy options to determine which one comes out on top.
So grab a cup of coffee (or almondmilk latte) and let’s dive in!
Does Starbucks Almond Milk Have Carrageenan?
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to non-dairy milk alternatives is the presence of carrageenan. This additive, derived from seaweed, is often used as a thickener and emulsifier in dairy-free products. However, it has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation in some people.
So, does Starbucks almond milk contain carrageenan? The answer is no. Unlike their coconut milk, which does contain carrageenan, Starbucks’ almond milk is free of this controversial ingredient.
Instead, the ingredients in Starbucks’ almond milk include brewed Starbucks coffee, water, almonds, sugar, cellulose gel, natural flavors, sunflower lecithin (an emulsifier), tricalcium phosphate, potassium citrate, cellulose gum, sea salt, and carrageenan-free carrageenan.
While some may be concerned about the presence of other additives like cellulose gel and gum, these are generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory agencies like the FDA.
What Is Carrageenan And Why Is It Controversial?
Carrageenan is a commonly used food additive that’s derived from red seaweed. It’s often added to dairy-free products like nut milks, as well as other foods like salad dressings, pie fillings, and processed meats. Carrageenan is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier, helping to keep mixed ingredients from separating and giving foods a smooth texture.
However, carrageenan has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation in some people. Studies have found that carrageenan can cause gut problems, such as bloating and gas, and may even contribute to inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, some types of carrageenan may be contaminated with “degraded carrageenan”, which is even more harmful to the digestive system.
Because of these concerns, many mainstream brands have removed carrageenan from their products. However, some products still contain this controversial additive, including some brands of coconut milk and Starbucks’ coconut milk.
Starbucks’ Non-Dairy Milk Options
Starbucks has been offering non-dairy milk options for several years now, including almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. However, not all of these options are created equal.
Starbucks’ almond milk is a popular choice among customers who are looking for a dairy-free alternative that is low in sugar and free of carrageenan. It is made using predominantly almonds and filtered water, with added ingredients like guar gum, xanthan gum, tricalcium phosphate, sea salt, sunflower lecithin, vitamin B2, vitamin A palmitate, and sugar.
Compared to Starbucks’ coconut milk and soy milk options, almond milk has the lowest sugar count. One cup of Starbucks’ almond milk contains only 3 grams of sugar, while the coconut milk contains 8.5 grams and the soy milk contains 13.5 grams per cup.
Moreover, Starbucks’ almond milk is free of carrageenan, which is a controversial additive that has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation in some people. This makes it a safer option for those who are looking to avoid this ingredient.
Ingredients In Starbucks’ Almond Milk
Starbucks’ almond milk is made with a simple list of ingredients. The primary ingredients are water and almonds, which are blended together to create a smooth and creamy texture. Sugar is added for sweetness, but the amount is relatively low compared to other non-dairy milk options.
To help thicken and emulsify the milk, Starbucks uses sunflower lecithin, tricalcium phosphate, potassium citrate, and cellulose gum. These ingredients are generally considered safe and are commonly used in food products.
Sea salt is also added for flavor, along with natural flavors to enhance the taste of the almond milk. Additionally, Starbucks uses carrageenan-free carrageenan, which is a modified form of the seaweed-derived additive that does not have the same potential health risks as regular carrageenan.
Comparison Of Carrageenan In Starbucks’ Non-Dairy Milk Options
When it comes to carrageenan in Starbucks’ non-dairy milk options, it’s important to note that not all of their alternatives contain this ingredient. While their coconut milk does contain carrageenan, their almond milk and oat milk are both carrageenan-free.
For those who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with carrageenan, Starbucks’ almond milk is a great option. It provides a low sugar count and delivers 30% of the daily value of calcium and vitamin D, making it a healthy choice for those who are lactose intolerant or simply looking to reduce their dairy intake.
On the other hand, Starbucks’ soy milk does contain carrageenan, which may be a concern for some consumers. While regulatory agencies like the FDA consider carrageenan safe for consumption in small amounts, some people have reported digestive issues and inflammation after consuming products containing this ingredient.
Conclusion: Is Starbucks’ Almond Milk Safe To Consume?
Based on the information available, Starbucks’ almond milk appears to be a safe and healthy option for those looking for a non-dairy milk alternative. It is free of carrageenan, a potentially harmful ingredient found in some dairy-free products, and is made from natural almonds without any added artificial flavors or colors. Additionally, the almond milk is high in calcium and unsweetened, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake. While it does contain some additives like cellulose gel and gum, these are generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory agencies. Overall, Starbucks’ almond milk is a great option for those looking for a tasty and healthy non-dairy alternative.
