Are you looking to switch to a healthier alternative to dairy milk?
Almond milk is a popular choice for those who are lactose intolerant or simply looking for a low-calorie, low-fat option.
But where can you find it in the grocery store? With so many varieties and brands available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the aisles.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the different sections of the grocery store where you can find almond milk, as well as provide tips on how to save money and choose the best brands.
So grab your shopping list and let’s get started!
Where To Find Almond Milk In The Grocery Store?
Almond milk can be found in several sections of the grocery store, depending on the type and brand you are looking for.
For shelf-stable cartons of almond milk, head to the bottled juice section. These cartons do not require refrigeration until they are opened, making them a convenient option for those who want to stock up.
If you prefer refrigerated almond milk, check the cold dairy cases. This is where you will find the larger varieties of almond milk that require refrigeration.
If your grocery store has a natural foods section, look for almond milk near the soymilk. This section may also have specialty brands that contain fewer preservatives but come at a higher cost.
If you cannot find almond milk in your local grocery store, ask the store manager or customer service representative if they carry it. Some small grocery stores rely on customer feedback to determine what products to stock.
The Dairy Aisle: Where To Look First
When searching for almond milk in the grocery store, one section to check first is the dairy aisle. In recent years, the dairy aisle has undergone a significant transformation to include a wide range of non-dairy milk products.
Within the dairy aisle, you can find refrigerated almond milk alongside other plant-based milks like soy, coconut, and oat milk. These types of almond milk are often sold in larger cartons and require refrigeration to maintain freshness.
If you are looking for a smaller, single-serving option, check the dairy aisle’s grab-and-go section. Here you may find individual bottles or containers of almond milk that are perfect for on-the-go consumption.
It is important to note that not all grocery stores organize their non-dairy milk products in the same way. If you cannot find almond milk in the dairy aisle, be sure to check other sections like the bottled juice or natural foods section.
Alternative Milk Section: Where To Find More Options
If you’re looking for even more milk alternatives beyond almond milk, there are several options available in most grocery stores. Soy milk is a popular alternative that can be found in the same sections as almond milk. Coconut milk and rice milk can often be found in the Asian foods section, while cashew and oat milk may be found near the baking ingredients.
For those who want to try more unique options, hemp milk and pea protein milk can be found in specialty health food stores or online. It’s important to read labels and check for added sugars or artificial ingredients, as some brands may not be as healthy as others.
When trying a new milk alternative, consider starting with a small carton or container to see if you like the taste and texture before committing to a larger size. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of milk alternatives in your recipes, as each one may have a slightly different flavor and consistency that can add variety to your cooking and baking.
Organic And Non-GMO Options: Where To Find Healthier Choices
If you are looking for organic and non-GMO options for almond milk, there are several online grocery delivery services that offer these choices.
Misfits Market is a great option for those who want to support sustainable agriculture practices while also saving money. They work directly with organic growers to provide customers with fresh, wholesome produce that traditional grocery stores would reject for being imperfect. Misfits Market only sources certified organic produce, so you can be sure that you are getting the best quality almond milk.
Thrive Market is another great option for those who want to buy organic and non-GMO food online. They carry over 6,000 products, including almond milk, and offer a wide range of options from brands like Burt’s Bees, Acure, Annie’s, and more. Thrive Market also has an in-house brand that packages organic products at a lower cost than other organic brands.
Sunbasket is a meal delivery service that provides dietitian- and chef-crafted meals made with high quality, sustainable ingredients. They estimate that 99% of the produce they use is organic, along with all organic milk, yogurt, eggs, and tofu. Sunbasket also offers organic meat and poultry for select recipes. While they may not always have organic ingredients, they focus on sourcing humanely raised meat and poultry and wild-caught or sustainably farmed seafood.
Ripple is a brand that offers pea-based milk alternatives that are disrupting the dairy alternative market. They use GMO-free ingredients and 100 percent recycled plastic bottles for their products, including almond milk alternatives.
When looking for organic and non-GMO options for almond milk, it’s important to do your research and read labels carefully. Look for certifications like USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified to ensure that you are getting the healthiest and most sustainable option available.
Saving Money: How To Get The Best Deals On Almond Milk
Almond milk can be more expensive than regular milk, but there are ways to save money on this popular alternative. One of the easiest ways is to use printable coupons that are available for various brands of almond milk. These coupons can be found online and can be combined with sales to maximize your savings.
Another way to save money on almond milk is to compare prices between different stores. Prices can vary between locations of the same store chain, so it’s worth checking out multiple stores in your area to find the best deal.
If you’re looking to stock up on almond milk, consider purchasing shelf-stable cartons instead of refrigerated ones. These cartons can be stored at room temperature until opened, making them a convenient option for bulk purchases.
Finally, keep an eye out for weekly ads and special promotions from your favorite grocery stores. Many stores offer discounts and deals on almond milk, so it’s worth checking these out regularly.
By using these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of almond milk while also saving money on your grocery bill.
Choosing The Best Brand: Tips For Reading Labels And Finding Your Favorite
When it comes to choosing the best brand of almond milk, it’s important to read the labels carefully. The ingredients list is the second most important component of a food package after the Nutrition Facts panel. It’s a good idea to cross-reference the two to see how they align.
Start by scanning the first three ingredients, as they make up the largest part of what you’re consuming. If the first ingredients include refined grains, a type of sugar, or hydrogenated oils, you can assume that the product is unhealthy. Instead, try choosing items that have whole foods listed as the first three ingredients.
In addition, be skeptical of foods with long lists of ingredients. An ingredients list that is longer than two to three lines suggests that the product is highly processed. Try looking for products that list whole foods as the first three ingredients.
It’s also important to keep in mind that just because a product has a short list of simple ingredients doesn’t mean it’s good for you. The list for stick butter might be just one, familiar ingredient (e.g., “sweet cream”), but that doesn’t make it healthy.
When it comes to sugar, keep in mind that in processed foods, sugar can be listed under many different names. Check out a handy list of 61 synonyms for sugar to help you identify them on labels.
Look for “clean labels” with fewer, simpler and more intuitive sounding ingredients. However, not all chemicals or additives are inherently bad for health. Everything is chemicals; we’re not chemical-phobes, but the F.D.A. doesn’t do a particularly good job of regulating those that aren’t good for you.
The ingredient list on packaged foods is also helpful since it shows each ingredient listed by its common or usual name. A good rule of thumb is to scan the first three ingredients in the list since they are likely to make up most of the food. You want to look for items that list whole foods first.
Finally, if you’re unsure about a particular brand or product, do some research online or ask for recommendations from friends and family who may have tried it before. With these tips in mind, you can find your favorite brand of almond milk and make an informed decision about what you’re putting into your body.
