Are you a fan of almond milk in your coffee?
If so, you may have wondered what brand of almond milk Starbucks uses in their drinks. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best choice.
Luckily, we’ve done the research for you! In this article, we’ll explore the brand of almond milk that Starbucks uses, as well as its nutritional benefits and environmental impact.
Whether you’re a vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking for a healthier alternative to cow’s milk, read on to learn more about Starbucks’ almond milk of choice.
What Brand Almond Milk Does Starbucks Use?
Starbucks has been using Califia Farms Barista Blend Almond Milk as their primary almond milk since 2021. This brand of almond milk is shelf-stable, vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free. However, it’s important to note that depending on the location of the Starbucks store, they may use other brands of almond milk.
It’s worth mentioning that Starbucks’ almond milk is always unflavored and unsweetened. This allows customers to add their preferred flavorings and sweeteners to their beverages. The ingredients in Starbucks’ almond milk include almonds, filtered water, guar gum, xanthan gum, tricalcium phosphate, sea salt, sunflower lecithin, vitamin B2, vitamin A palmitate, and sugar.
One of the benefits of Starbucks’ almond milk is that it doesn’t contain carrageenan. Carrageenan is an additive derived from seaweed that’s often used to thicken certain dairy milk alternatives. However, it may have potential inflammatory effects. Many people appreciate that Starbucks’ almond milk is free of this ingredient.
Why Almond Milk Is A Popular Choice At Starbucks
Almond milk has become a popular choice at Starbucks for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it’s a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. Almond milk is a plant-based milk that’s free of lactose and dairy, making it a suitable alternative for those who can’t consume traditional dairy milk.
Additionally, almond milk has a creamy texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with many of Starbucks’ beverages. This includes everything from lattes to frappuccinos, and even cold brew. Many customers appreciate the unique flavor that almond milk adds to their drinks.
Moreover, almond milk is considered to be a healthier alternative to dairy milk. It’s lower in calories and fat, and it also contains important nutrients like vitamin E and calcium. For those who are health-conscious, almond milk is a great choice that allows them to enjoy their favorite Starbucks drinks without the added calories and fat.
Finally, Starbucks’ decision to use Califia Farms Barista Blend Almond Milk specifically has also contributed to its popularity. This brand of almond milk is known for its high-quality ingredients and its ability to froth well, making it perfect for creating latte art. Many customers appreciate that Starbucks uses a premium brand of almond milk in their beverages.
Nutritional Benefits Of Almond Milk
Almond milk is a great alternative to dairy milk for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a healthier option. Almond milk is naturally low in calories and contains no cholesterol or saturated fat. It’s also a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
In addition to being low in calories, almond milk is also high in calcium. One cup of almond milk contains around 45% of the recommended daily intake of calcium. This is great news for those who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy products, as calcium is important for strong bones and teeth.
Almond milk is also a good source of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium. Many people don’t get enough vitamin D from their diet or sunlight exposure, so consuming foods that are fortified with vitamin D, like almond milk, can be beneficial.
Another benefit of almond milk is that it’s low in carbohydrates and sugar. This makes it a good option for those who are watching their sugar intake or following a low-carb diet. However, it’s important to note that some brands of almond milk may contain added sugars or sweeteners, so always check the label before purchasing.
Environmental Impact Of Almond Milk Production
While almond milk is a popular alternative to cow’s milk, its production has a significant environmental impact. One of the most significant issues is water consumption. Almond trees require a lot of water to grow, and it takes approximately 130 pints of water to produce one glass of almond milk. This is significantly more than other plant-based milk alternatives like oat milk, which requires less water to produce.
Additionally, the production of almond milk has a higher carbon footprint than other milk alternatives. While it emits fewer greenhouse gases than dairy milk production, it emits more than oat milk production. Almond farming also requires a significant amount of land, which can lead to deforestation and habitat loss for wildlife.
However, it’s important to note that not all almond farming practices are equal. Some almond farms use sustainable practices, such as crop rotation and natural pest control methods, which can reduce the environmental impact of almond farming. Furthermore, some almond farms prioritize bee-friendly practices, which can support biodiversity and help protect pollinators.
Other Non-dairy Milk Options At Starbucks
In addition to almond milk, Starbucks offers several other non-dairy milk options for their customers. These options include coconut milk, soy milk, and oat milk.
Starbucks’ coconut milk is a creamy and sweet alternative to dairy milk. It’s made with coconut cream and water, and it’s also vegan and gluten-free. However, it’s important to note that Starbucks’ coconut milk does contain added sugars, so it may not be suitable for those who are watching their sugar intake.
Soy milk is another popular non-dairy milk option at Starbucks. This milk alternative is made from soybeans and filtered water, and it’s also vegan and gluten-free. However, some people may have a soy allergy or sensitivity, so it’s important to check with your doctor before consuming soy products.
For those who prefer a nuttier taste in their beverages, Starbucks offers oat milk as a non-dairy option. The brand of oat milk used by Starbucks is Oatly, which is a Swedish company that specializes in oat-based products. Oatly’s oat milk is creamy and delicious, and it’s also vegan and gluten-free. Additionally, Oatly claims that their oat milk is more sustainable than other types of milk, as it requires less water and land to produce.
