Have you ever stopped to wonder how many almonds are actually in your almond milk?
You might be surprised to learn that some popular brands contain as little as 9 to 14 almonds in 2 cups of milk. That’s right, the almond milk industry might be selling us a carton of filtered water with just a couple of almonds thrown in for good measure.
But fear not, there are ways to ensure you’re getting the most out of your non-dairy milk. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the almond milk industry and compare the number of almonds in popular brands, as well as provide tips on how to make your own almond milk at home.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of almond milk!
How Many Almonds Are In Silk Almond Milk?
Silk Almond Milk Original Unsweetened is a popular brand of almond milk that many people enjoy. But just how many almonds are actually in this milk? According to a comparison conducted by a blog writer, there are only 9 almonds in 2 cups of Silk Almond Milk Original Unsweetened.
This might come as a surprise to those who assume that almond milk is made primarily from almonds. However, it’s important to note that this is not unique to Silk Almond Milk. Other popular brands like Almond Breeze and Califia Farms also contain a low number of almonds, with some containing as little as 2% almonds.
The Almond Milk Industry: A Closer Look
The popularity of almond milk has skyrocketed over the past decade, with the dairy-free alternative now widely available in supermarkets and restaurants. However, as the demand for almond milk has increased, so has the scrutiny around the industry and its practices.
One of the main criticisms of the almond milk industry is the low amount of actual almonds in the product. As mentioned earlier, some top brands contain only about 2% actual nuts, with the majority of the product consisting of water and additives. This has led to a lawsuit against two major manufacturers, Blue Diamond and Silk, alleging that their packaging misleads consumers into assuming a much greater percentage of almonds than what is actually in the product.
Another issue with the almond milk industry is its environmental impact. The majority of almonds used to make almond milk are grown in California, where droughts and water shortages have become increasingly common. It takes approximately one gallon of water to produce just one almond, which means that producing almond milk requires a significant amount of water. This has led to concerns about the sustainability of almond milk production and its impact on California’s water supply.
Additionally, some brands of almond milk (and other dairy alternatives) contain Carrageenan, an additive that has been linked to gastrointestinal inflammation. While not all brands include this ingredient, it’s important for consumers to read labels and choose products that are Carrageenan-free if they have concerns about its potential health effects.
Despite these concerns, many people still choose to consume almond milk as a dairy-free alternative. It’s important for consumers to be aware of the ingredients in their chosen brand and to make informed decisions based on their own health concerns and values.
How Many Almonds Are In Popular Brands Of Almond Milk?
When it comes to popular brands of almond milk, the amount of actual almonds in the product can be quite low. For example, Blue Diamond’s Almond Breeze and Silk’s almond milk have both been the subject of a lawsuit alleging that their packaging is misleading, as they contain only about 2% actual nuts. Other brands like Pacific Organic Almond Milk and Kirkland Organic Unsweetened Almond Milk may have as few as 5 almonds per cup.
It’s important to note that the low amount of almonds in these products doesn’t necessarily mean they are unhealthy or lacking in nutritional value. Many almond milk brands are fortified with vitamins and minerals, making them a good source of nutrients for those who are lactose intolerant or choose to avoid dairy. However, for those who are specifically looking to reap the benefits of almonds, making homemade almond milk or choosing a brand like Elmhurst 1925 that contains a higher percentage of almonds may be a better option.
Reading The Labels: What To Look For When Buying Almond Milk
When it comes to buying almond milk, it’s important to read the labels carefully to ensure that you’re getting a product that meets your nutritional needs. Here are some things to look for when reading the labels:
1. Percentage of Almonds: Check the percentage of almonds in the product. As mentioned earlier, some popular brands contain as little as 2% almonds. Look for brands that have a higher percentage of almonds, such as Thrive Market Unsweetened Almond Milk, which contains approximately 5 almonds per one cup serving.
2. Additional Ingredients: Take note of the additional ingredients in the almond milk. Some brands contain sweeteners, thickening agents, emulsifiers, and stabilizers, which can lower the quality of the product. Look for brands that have minimal additional ingredients.
3. Nutritional Information: Check the nutritional information on the label to see how much protein, fat, and sugar is in each serving. Some brands may add extra protein or vitamins and minerals to their almond milk, while others may contain added sugars.
4. Omega-6 Levels: If you’re concerned about your omega-6 levels, check the amount of omega-6 fatty acids in each serving. Homemade almond milk can contain high levels of omega-6s, which can be inflammatory.
By reading the labels carefully and choosing brands with higher percentages of almonds and minimal additional ingredients, you can ensure that you’re getting a high-quality almond milk that meets your nutritional needs.
Making Almond Milk At Home: Tips And Tricks
Making almond milk at home is a simple and affordable alternative to buying it at the grocery store. Not only is homemade almond milk fresher and healthier, but it also contains a higher percentage of almonds compared to store-bought varieties. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the perfect batch of homemade almond milk:
1. Soak the almonds: Soaking the almonds overnight in water helps to soften them and make them easier to blend. It also helps to remove phytic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of nutrients.
2. Use a high-speed blender: A high-speed blender is essential for making smooth and creamy almond milk. Make sure to blend the almonds and water until they are completely pulverized.
3. Strain the mixture: Strain the almond mixture through a cheesecloth, fine mesh strainer, or a nut milk bag to remove any pulp or grit. Squeeze the bag or cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Add sweeteners or flavorings: Homemade almond milk can be customized to your taste preferences by adding sweeteners like honey or dates, or flavorings like vanilla extract or cinnamon.
5. Store properly: Homemade almond milk should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before using as separation is normal.
By following these simple tips, you can make delicious and nutritious homemade almond milk that is free from additives and preservatives. Plus, you’ll be able to control the quality and quantity of almonds in your milk, ensuring that you’re getting the most out of this healthy and versatile nut milk.
Is Almond Milk Worth The Hype? The Pros And Cons Of This Non-Dairy Milk Alternative
Almond milk has become a popular non-dairy alternative to cow’s milk, but is it worth the hype? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of this milk alternative.
Pros:
– Low in calories: Almond milk is lower in calories compared to cow’s milk, making it a great option for those looking to manage their weight.
– Dairy-free: For those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies, almond milk is a great alternative.
– High in vitamin E: Almond milk is a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the body against damage from free radicals.
– Heart-healthy fats: Although much of the nutrition in almonds is lost during the “milking” process, almond milk still contains some heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help keep our body processes running optimally.
Cons:
– Low in protein: Almond milk is not considered a source of protein, as much of the protein is lost during the “milking” process. If you’re looking to replace calcium-rich dairy milk with almond milk, you’ll want to ensure you’re getting protein from other sources in your diet.
– Additives and gums: Some brands of almond milk contain thickeners and emulsifiers like carrageenan that may cause gastrointestinal distress for some people. Look for brands that are carrageenan-free if you’re concerned about this.
– Environmental impact: Most almond milk is made in California and requires a lot of water to produce, which can have a negative impact on the environment.
