Plant Based Milk Brands

Plant based milk brands have gained popularity over the years, offering a dairy-free alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to switch up their milk options at home.

With so many options available, it can be challenging to know which one to pick. I have outlined 10 of the popular plant-based milk brands and what makes each one unique.

1. Silk

Silk is a well-known name in the plant-based milk world. They offer a wide variety of options, including almond, soy, cashew, and oat milk. Silk is fortified with calcium and vitamin D, making it a great choice for those looking to match the nutritional benefits of cow’s milk.

2. Earth’s Own

This Canadian brand specializes in oat and almond milk, with an emphasis on sustainability. Their oat milk, in particular, is a fan favourite for its creamy texture and versatility in coffee, baking, or cereal. Earth’s Own also prides itself on using locally sourced oats, reducing its carbon footprint.

3. Blue Diamond Almond Breeze

Blue Diamond’s Almond Breeze is a staple in many households. Their almond milk is available in several flavours, including vanilla, chocolate, and unsweetened. It’s smooth, slightly nutty, and a great addition to smoothies or baked goods. The brand also offers shelf-stable cartons for convenience.

4. Elmhurst

Elmhurst sets itself apart by offering plant-based milks made with minimal ingredients. Their products typically contain just water, nuts, or grains, and a touch of salt. This simplicity makes Elmhurst a great option for those looking to avoid added thickeners or stabilizers. Note this brand tends to be on the pricer side.

5. Califia Farms

Califia Farms is known for its sleek, curvy bottles and high-quality plant-based milks. They offer almond, oat, and coconut milks, among others. Califia also ensures its products are non-GMO and sustainably sourced.

6. Ripple

Ripple is a plant-based milk made from yellow peas, offering a higher protein content of 8 grams per serving. It’s also fortified with DHA omega-3s, calcium, and vitamin D, making it an excellent option for those looking for a nutritional boost.

7. Oatly

Oatly is a barista favourite for its ability to froth and steam like cow’s milk. Oatly is also fortified with calcium and vitamins and has a lower environmental impact compared to many other plant-based milks.

8. Oat Yeah

A newer player in the oat milk space, Oat Yeah offers a smooth and creamy oat milk with a slightly sweet flavor. It’s a great option for cereal, baking, or drinking on its own.

9. NotMilk

NotMilk stands out for its mimic of the unique taste and texture of cow’s milk using plant-based ingredients. Made with a combination of pea protein, coconut oil, and pineapple juice, NotMilk offers a creamy and rich alternative to dairy.

It’s ideal for those who miss the flavour of traditional milk but want a plant-based option.

10. So Delicious

So Delicious offers a wide range of plant-based milks, including coconut, almond, and cashew varieties. They’re well-loved for their dessert-like flavors, such as vanilla and chocolate, as well as their unsweetened options.

The Bottom Line:

There are many plant based milk brands on the market. When picking one to try, it's important you understand what you are looking for.

Something that matches the taste to dairy milk - try NotMilk Looking for a plant based option that offers similar protein per serving - give Silk Soy milk or Ripple a try. Searching for a plant based milk with minimal additives - try out Elmhurst.

FAQ: Plant Based Milk Brands

1. Which plant-based milk is the healthiest?

The "healthiest" plant-based milk depends on your dietary needs. Ripple, for example, is high in protein, while Oatly and Earth’s Own oat milks offer a creamy texture and added nutrients. Look for unsweetened varieties to limit added sugars.

2. Can I use plant-based milk in baking?

Yes! Most plant-based milks, like almond, oat, and soy milk, work well in baking. They can be used as a 1:1 substitute for cow’s milk in most recipes.

3. Are plant-based milks fortified with nutrients?

Many plant-based milks are fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients to match the benefits of dairy milk. Always check the label to ensure the product meets your needs.

4. Which plant-based milk is best for coffee?

Barista blends from brands like Califia Farms or Oatly are specifically formulated to froth and blend well in coffee. Almond and oat milks are popular choices for their creamy texture.

5. Are plant-based milks environmentally friendly?

Most plant-based milks have a lower environmental impact compared to cow’s milk, but sustainability varies by brand and ingredient. For example, oat milk tends to have a smaller carbon footprint than almond milk due to its lower water usage