Are you confused about the difference between almond “beverage” and almond “milk”?
You’re not alone. With so many non-dairy milk options on the market, it can be hard to know what to choose. Some people argue that non-dairy milks shouldn’t be called “milk” at all, but does it really matter?
In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between almond drink and almond milk, and help you decide which one is right for you. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just looking for a healthier alternative to dairy milk, read on to learn more about this popular plant-based beverage.
Is Almond Drink The Same As Almond Milk?
The short answer is yes, almond drink and almond milk are the same thing. The term “beverage” is often used to describe non-dairy milks, but it’s simply a marketing term. Most people use almond milk in the same way they would use dairy milk, so calling it milk just makes sense.
Almond milk is made by blending almonds with water and straining out the solids. The resulting liquid is creamy and slightly nutty in flavor. It’s a popular choice for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to dairy milk.
What Is Almond Milk?
Almond milk is a dairy alternative that is made by soaking, blending and squeezing almonds in order to create a drink that has a similar texture to dairy milk. The process involves blending almonds with water and then straining out the solids. The resulting liquid is creamy and slightly nutty in flavor. Almond milk has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly among those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or looking for a healthier alternative to dairy milk. It can be used as a substitute for cow’s milk in almost everything, from pouring over cereal to using in baking and making indulgent smoothies. Almond milk has been used for centuries, with historians believing that it was first produced in the Middle East before being exported to Europe and later the rest of the world. While almond milk may not provide as much protein as cow’s milk, it is still a great source of nutrients and can be a delicious addition to your diet.
The Controversy Over Non-dairy Milk Labeling
The labeling of non-dairy milk has been a controversial topic for years, with the dairy industry arguing that the use of the term “milk” for plant-based beverages is misleading to consumers. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently released draft rules that allow plant-based drinks to continue using the term “milk.” The dairy industry has objected to this decision, claiming that it confuses people and harms their declining sales.
Under the draft rules, beverage makers are recommended to label their products clearly by the plant source of the food, such as “soy milk” or “cashew milk.” The rules also call for voluntary extra nutrition labels that note when the drinks have lower levels of nutrients than dairy milk, such as calcium, magnesium or vitamin D. They would continue to allow labels that note when plant-based drinks have higher levels. However, critics argue that this extra labeling is misguided and unnecessary.
One prominent example of the fight between dairy and non-dairy companies is a lawsuit against Blue Diamond Growers, a prominent producer of almond milk. The unsuccessful suit alleged that their almond milk products should be labeled “imitation milk” because the nut-based alternative was a non-nutritionally equivalent imitation of dairy milk. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the ruling in favor of the almond growers in 2018, ruling that almond milk was neither an “imitation” nor a “substitute” for traditional milk.
The controversy over non-dairy milk labeling highlights the power struggle between the dairy industry and makers of alternative milks like almond, coconut, soy, and oat. While sales of non-dairy milks have grown over 60% between 2012 and 2017, with almond milk taking a 64% market share, dairy milk sales have dropped by 15%. Non-dairy milks are juices from nuts, seeds, grains, and legumes that may be fortified with vitamins and minerals to deliver the equivalent nutrient profile and sometimes taste and consistency of cow’s milk.
What Is Almond Drink?
Almond drink is a dairy alternative made by soaking, blending, and squeezing almonds to create a drink similar in texture to dairy milk. It’s also known as almond milk, and the terms are used interchangeably. Almond drink can be used as a substitute for cow’s milk in almost everything, from pouring over cereal to adding to smoothies or coffee. It’s also a delicious addition to baked goods.
While almond drink is a popular dairy alternative, it’s important to note that it doesn’t provide the same amount of protein as cow’s milk. Most almond drinks contain only 1-2 grams of protein per cup compared to 8 grams of protein per cup of cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is also a source of high-quality or complete protein, meaning it provides all of the essential building blocks for muscle repair and immune function.
Almond drink has been around for centuries, with historians believing it was first produced in the Middle East and then exported to Europe around the 8th Century. Today, food movements such as veganism have resurrected this dairy alternative, and there are now many different varieties of almond drinks on the market.
When choosing an almond drink, presentation matters. The packaging of the product can be a deciding factor, especially if all else seems equal. The sleek design and robin’s egg blue color combination of Rude Health Almond Drink make it stand out from the rest. Trader Joe’s Almond Beverage Unsweetened Original is another great option that has a nutty, natural flavor and works well as a “blank slate” in coffee or tea, smoothies, or cereal.
Differences In Ingredients And Nutrition
While almond milk and dairy milk share some similarities, there are notable differences in their ingredients and nutritional content. For example, dairy milk is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids needed for muscle building and repair. On the other hand, almond milk is low in protein, with only 1 gram per cup.
Additionally, cow’s milk is a natural source of calcium, vitamin D, and high-quality protein, while almond milk is often fortified with these nutrients. However, homemade almond milk may not contain these added nutrients.
Almond milk is also lower in calories than cow’s milk, with only 39 calories per cup compared to 146 calories in whole cow’s milk. Almond milk is also a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radical damage.
When compared to other plant-based milks like oat milk and coconut milk, almond milk tends to be lower in sugar and higher in protein and vitamin E. However, it’s important to note that almonds are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to inflammation if consumed in excess.
Taste And Texture Comparison
When it comes to taste and texture, almond milk is often compared to cow’s milk. While it may not be an exact match, the two share some similarities. Almond milk has a creamy and smooth texture, much like cow’s milk, and it is enjoyable to drink on its own or mixed into a latte or other beverage. The texture may vary slightly from brand to brand, so it’s recommended to try different brands to find the one that suits your taste.
One of the biggest complaints about non-dairy milk is that the texture can sometimes be watery, and the creamy feeling associated with cow’s milk is often missing. However, this is not the case with almond milk. It has a body that is similar to whole milk, making it a great choice for adding to smoothies or milkshakes.
In terms of taste, almond milk has a slightly nutty flavor that is not overwhelming. The natural sweetness of almonds gives it a hint of sweetness, which makes it a delicious addition to protein shakes or unsweetened cereal. Compared to regular milk, even the unsweetened variety of almond milk is noticeably sweet.
Almond milk is available in both sweetened and unsweetened varieties. The sweetened versions have a naturally sweet taste and come in flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, and honey vanilla. The unsweetened variety has a nutty flavor that pairs well with many foods and beverages.
Which One Is Right For You?
When it comes to choosing between different types of non-dairy milks, it can be overwhelming. Almond milk is just one of many options, including oat milk, soy milk, rice milk, and coconut milk. So which one is right for you?
If you’re looking for a low-calorie and low-fat option, almond milk may be the way to go. It typically has fewer calories and less fat than cow’s milk, making it a good choice for those who are watching their weight. However, it’s important to note that almond milk is lower in protein than cow’s milk, so if you’re looking for a protein-rich option, you may want to consider other alternatives.
If you’re lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, almond milk is a great alternative to cow’s milk. It’s also a good choice for vegans or those who follow a plant-based diet.
When it comes to taste and texture, almond milk has a slightly nutty flavor and a creamy consistency that works well in coffee, smoothies, and cereal. However, if you’re looking for a more neutral flavor, oat milk may be a better option.
Ultimately, the choice between different types of non-dairy milks comes down to personal preference and dietary needs. It’s important to read labels carefully and choose products that are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
