The Best Non-Dairy Milk (Top 4 Brands)
Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or are one of the many people that have become dairy-averse after learning what’s really in conventional milk, I’ve prepared a handy list of the best non-dairy milk brands out there – from the POV of your friendly plant-based nutrition coach.
There really are so many reasons to opt for plant-based milk over conventional dairy: the environment, animal ethics, and your health – and despite what you may be hearing about dairy making a comeback, I firmly believe that the pendulum always swings back and that the healthiest option will always, always be plant-based milk.
Here’s what I look for in a high-quality non-dairy milk:
- Certified organic
- Minimal ingredients
- Gum-free
- Zero added sugars
Let’s get into my round-up of the best non-dairy milk alternatives.
Cleanest Non-Dairy Milk: Malk
Malk checks all my boxes: it’s super clean, organic, made with three ingredients, is gum-free and has zero added sugar. All of their milk products taste great, and they now have a pretty extensive product lineup of almond, oat, coconut, soy, and cashew milk. They also sell coconut milk creamers, as well as shelf-stable milk. Malk is available at a wide range of grocers and retailers like Target, Whole Foods, Pavilions, Sprout’s, Gelson’s, Erewhon, and many more (store locator here).
Most Sustainable: Three Trees
It’s worth noting that Three Trees is also extremely clean – most of their milks only have three ingredients and all are organic, gum, and filler free – so they’re really tied for first, IMO. But they also really excel in the sustainability department; their almonds and other ingredients are locally and/or sustainably sourced, and they partner with almond growers that optimize water use through drip irrigation or by tapping underground water sources. One of their growers is fully powered by solar energy, which we love. Three Trees also shifted to using only recycled plastic bottles, so they’re not creating any virgin plastic with their packaging, and they aim to reduce their carbon footprint further by consolidating shipments. Three Trees has expanded their product line to include almond, soy, pistachio, black sesame (yum), oil-free oat and oil-free barista. They also sell milk teas now, which I’m dying to try. Three Trees is widely available now and available in both traditional and speciality grocery stores and retailers (Pavilions, Target, Whole Foods, Lassen’s, Gelson’s, Lazy Acres, Sprout’s, Mothers, and more (store locator here).
Best for Steaming/Lattes: Minor Figures Organic Lite Barista
If you know me, you know I take my lattes very seriously. I think I’ve perfected my at-home lattes (both espresso and matcha) and that’s due, in part, to finding what I think is the best non-dairy barista milk that is excellent for frothing and steaming while having great flavor. What I think makes Minor Figures Lite Barista stand out is that it has a creamy but neutral flavor palette while allowing the flavor of your coffee (or matcha, or chai) to stay front and center. Some other barista milks are a little too heavy and can dilute the taste of your coffee, but this one doesn’t thanks to it being “lite” – so it’s less heavy and less caloric, all while being a perfect accompaniment to your coffee. It’s what I drink every morning and I highly recommend. Minor Figures is sold at online grocers such as Thrive Market and Misfits Market, Whole Foods, and more. Store locator here.
Best Variety: Califia
Califia was one of the first really solid plant-based milk brands to hit the market, and I’ve been impressed to see their product line grow to be quite substantial over the years. While they’ve long been non-GMO certified, they’ve also rolled out organic certified products which I was very happy to see – and their entire organic line is gum-free. Califia is sold at Thrive Market and Misfits Market, and is also available at conventional and specialty grocers. They have a vast product offering, including soy, almond, coconut, and oat milk, as well as creamers and barista blends.
I hope you find this list of the best non-dairy milk brands helpful! If you need any further assistance navigating the grocery aisle, I’m always here to help. And while we’re talking plant-based milk, be sure to check out my list of the best vegan cheese brands while you’re here.
