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The milk section is doing alotlately.
Marek Uliasz / Getty Images
And the nondairy market has really stepped up to meet those needs.
Not to mention people just like alternatives and choices, Moore saysnondairy devotees and dairy lovers alike.
Heres what to keep in mind when choosing a nondairy milk.
Many brands offer both plain and vanilla-flavored version of their drink, as well as sweetened and unsweetened.
Because if you dont like how a product tastes, who cares what the nutrition panel says?
Its really about what it is thatyouenjoy, Scritchfield says.
Then theres what youre gonna do with the stuff (other than drink it by the glass).
For some everyday purposes like pouring over cereal, a lot of these are pretty interchangeable.
Okay,nowwe can talk about the nutrition part.
But if dairy milk has been a primary source of protein in your diet, its something to consider.
You also see a ton of diversity when it comes to fat, carb, and protein content.
Now, TBH, the best way toreallyfind your fave nondairy milk is to experiment with it for yourself.
(And the nutrition facts were offering are based on one brand among many.)
But the truth is that everyone has a different palate and different nutritional needs.
Heres what to know about the nondairy mainstays.
Almond milk
Almond milk might be the most popular entry point into the world of nondairy milks.
It seems to be the most popular, Scritchfield says.
That might be thanks in part to its inoffensiveness, taste and texturewise.
(Just be sure to use an unflavored, unsweetened version for anything savory.)
Its also light enough to chug by the glass, if thats your thing.
Almond milk doesnt stand out all that much nutritionally speaking, either.
It offers nowhere near as much protein, fiber, or even fat as almonds oralmond butter.
As long youre not counting on almond milk for satiety, its a perfectly good option.
It just may not be as satisfying as a higher-protein or fat milk.
By the way: There are other varieties of nut milk that are pretty comparable to almond milk.
But I prefer cashew milk because I think its ever so slightly creamier, Moore says.
Or try pecan milk, for instance, for a tad more flavor.
Its also a good option for anyone who is generally looking to incorporate more sources ofplant proteininto their diet.
Soy milk has a nice, silky smooth texture.
It does have a distinct flavor, Moore says.
Some people love it, but it certainly stands out.
No, the flavor is nothing like dairy.
But that high-fat content gives you both that heavy mouthfeel and sense of satiety, Scritchfield explains.
(Moore also likes using either jot down of coconut milk to make pineapple ice pops.)
But canned coconut milk cant be used interchangeably with dairy in most savory dishes because of its strong flavor.
(Although it is a key ingredient in Thai curries, for instance.)
Finally, if youre looking for a fantastic dairy-freewhipped cream, you cant beat canned coconut milk.
Theprocessof making whipped cream is basically the aeration of fat, Scritchfield explains.
Thats largely becauseoat milktends to emulsify into hot drinks better than most other nondairy options.
But oat milk mixes in so nicely and really makes for a silky smooth hot beverage, Moore says.
Not to mention that beautiful natural sweetness and unsurpassably luscious mouthfeel.
You get this really creamy texture that you just dont get from the other kinds, Moore says.
Think of it as slightly more substantial almond milk, in terms of both taste and nutrition.
But honestly, rice milk can be kind of a miracle elixir for people with lots of allergies.
Consistency-wise, rice milk tends to be the thinnest and wateriest, Moore says.
1 cup ofDreambrand unsweetened rice milk contains:70 calories2.5 g fat11 g carbs1 g fiber1 g sugar0 g protein
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