The 9 Best Milk Substitutes - Part 2

Cow's milk is a major part of the eating habits of a large part of the population. It can be consumed in the form of a drink, along with breakfast cereal in the morning or as an additive to make a shake, tea or coffee. Despite its popularity and wide application, milk is not part of the daily routine of some people for a number of reasons. Fortunately, there are a variety of alternatives to living on the market without a drink. It has a number of useful qualities, but despite its good nutritional profile, it is not suitable for everyone.

Fortunately, many good substitutes for cow's milk are available today . We continue with the next five of a total of nine alternatives that will help you imagine life without the popular food liquid.

• Contents

The herbal drink is made from ground white or brown rice and water. As with other milk substitutes, thickeners are often added to the product to improve consistency.

• Taste

Rice milk has a naturally sweet and mild taste. Its consistency is relatively liquid and is suitable for shakes and desserts.

• Nutritional value

One cup (240 ml) contains 140 calories, 2 grams of fat, less than 1 gram of protein and 27-38 grams of carbohydrates. Some manufacturers add calcium and vitamin A and D.

• Positive qualities

Rice milk is a good choice for those who suffer from allergies or intolerances, as it does not contain any of the most common allergens, such as lactose, gluten, soy or collars.

• Negative qualities

Rice milk has the most carbohydrates of all plant alternatives. In addition, the high glycemic index (79-92) means that the product is absorbed very efficiently by the body and raises blood sugar quickly. Therefore, rice milk may not be the best option for diabetics. Due to its low protein content, the herbal drink is not suitable for children, athletes and the elderly. If rice is a significant part of the diet, it is recommended to use other alternatives to milk to maintain a varied diet.

• Contents

The herbal drink is obtained by mixing ground nuts or cashew oil and water.

• Taste

It has a thicker consistency than other milk alternatives and has a sweet, unobtrusive nutty taste. It is suitable for thickening shakes and making salad dressings, as well as a substitute for milk in coffee and desserts.

• Nutritional value

One cup (240 ml) of unsweetened cashew milk contains 25-50 calories, 2-4 grams of fat, less than 1 gram of protein and 1-2 grams of carbohydrates. Some companies add calcium and vitamin D to the product.

• Positive qualities

The small amounts of calories, fats and carbohydrates in the plant product make it suitable for switching to a diet.

• Negative qualities

As with other types of nut milk, much of the fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals are lost during the straining process.

• Contents

The herbal drink consists mainly of water and nearly 3% macadamia nuts. The relatively new product on the market is mainly produced in Australia from local macadamia nuts.

• Taste

The thick and creamy texture is combined with a mild nutty taste. Suitable as an additive for coffee or shakes.

• Nutritional value

One cup (240 ml) contains 50-55 calories, 5 grams of fat, 1-5 grams of protein and 1 gram of carbohydrates. It can be enriched with calcium and vitamin A and D.

• Positive qualities

The low calorie content makes the product suitable for a more dietary regime, and the low carbohydrate content is a good option for diabetics. Macadamia milk is a rich source of unsaturated fats, which can be beneficial for cholesterol and blood pressure.

• Negative qualities

Of all the plant alternatives, macadamia milk is the most difficult to find for the Bulgarian buyer.

• Contents

It is produced from peeled hemp seeds and water. Sometimes sweeteners are added to the mixture.

• Taste

Slight sweet taste of nuts and watery texture. A good substitute for low-fat milk.

• Nutritional value

One cup (240 ml) of unsweetened hemp milk contains 60-80 calories, 4.5-8 grams of fat, 2-3 grams of protein and less than 1 gram of carbohydrates. It is possible to add calcium to the product.

• Positive qualities

Good option for people who are allergic to soy, nuts and gluten. A good source of protein, but has a relatively low percentage of calcium, unless added extra. Suitable for vegetarians, as it provides the body with high quality proteins containing all the necessary amino acids, including Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

• Negative qualities

Hemp milk, which is available with added sweeteners, contains up to 20 grams of carbohydrates and thus is not suitable for stricter diets.

• Contents

The herbal drink is made from quinoa seeds and water. It is possible to enrich it with ingredients such as vanilla or sugar.

• Taste

It has a slightly sweet nutty taste. It is best served with breakfast cereal or oatmeal.

• Nutritional value

One cup (240 ml) contains 70 calories, 1 gram of fat, 2 grams of protein and 12 grams of carbohydrates.

• Positive qualities

Presents a relatively balanced diet - low fat with moderate amounts of protein, calories and carbohydrates.

• Negative qualities

Plant milk is composed mainly of water and only 5-10% quinoa, which means that much of the protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals are diluted.