The Rise of Dairy-Free: An Up&Go Option
For years, Sanitarium's Up&Go has been a staple for quick, on-the-go breakfasts, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. The original formula, made with skim milk powder, was a barrier for those with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, or following a vegan diet. Recognising this gap, Sanitarium developed a dedicated dairy-free product to ensure no one had to compromise on their breakfast choice. The result is a nutritionally sound, plant-based alternative that mimics the convenience and energy of the original, built on a soy protein base rather than milk.
What's in the Up&Go Dairy Free version?
Instead of using skim milk powder, Sanitarium's dairy-free Up&Go uses soy protein as its primary protein source. This makes it suitable for vegans and those with lactose or dairy sensitivities. The product is also fortified with an impressive array of vitamins and minerals to match the nutritional benefits of the original. Key ingredients include:
- Water and soy protein
- Corn maltodextrin and cane sugar for energy
- Plant fibre and rice flour for dietary fibre
- Vegetable oils (sunflower and canola)
- Added minerals like calcium for bone health
- 11 essential vitamins, including B vitamins, C, and D
This robust ingredient list ensures that the dairy-free variant is a substantial and nourishing start to the day, not just a sugary drink. The addition of soy protein and fibre contributes to its 'Low GI' rating, meaning it provides sustained energy.
Taste and texture: How does it compare?
Reviews on the taste and texture of the dairy-free Up&Go are generally positive, with some variation by flavour. Many praise its smooth texture and flavour, noting its similarity to the original. However, some have described it as having a 'mushy' or slightly gritty texture, possibly due to the soy protein base, if not shaken sufficiently. The flavour is often described as pleasant, with the vanilla and chocolate options being well-received. For those seeking a convenient, fuss-free option, the taste is more than acceptable, especially when chilled.
Exploring dairy-free alternatives
While Up&Go offers a specific solution, the world of dairy-free liquid breakfasts is vast. Many options exist, catering to different nutritional needs and tastes. Here are a few popular choices:
- Oatly Ready-to-Drink Oat Milk: Oatly, a major player in the oat milk market, offers various ready-to-drink options, including flavoured versions like chocolate. Oat milk is known for its creamy texture and is often fortified with calcium and vitamins. It's a great option for those who prefer an oat-based flavour and texture.
- Soy Milk Smoothies: For a fresh, homemade alternative, a smoothie made with soy milk is an excellent choice. You can add fresh fruits like bananas and berries, nut butter for extra protein, and oats for fibre to create a balanced, filling meal.
- Nut-Based Milks: Smoothies can also be made using almond, cashew, or macadamia milk. These typically offer a different flavour profile and can be a good source of healthy fats. You can enhance the nutritional value with add-ins like chia seeds or vegan protein powder.
- Coconut Milk-Based Drinks: Coconut milk, used in smoothies or as a base for drinks, provides a creamier, richer texture. Be mindful of the fat and sugar content depending on the product, as they can vary widely.
Comparing liquid breakfast options
Here is a simple comparison of nutritional profiles for three liquid breakfast options based on available data.
| Feature | Original Up&Go | Up&Go Dairy Free | Homemade Soy Smoothie |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy Content | Contains skim milk powder | Dairy-free (Soy-based) | Dairy-free (Soy-based) |
| Vegan | No | Yes | Yes |
| Gluten-Free | No (Contains wheat) | Yes | Yes (If gluten-free oats are used) |
| Protein Source | Skim milk powder, soy protein | Soy protein | Soy milk, nut butter, protein powder |
| Fibre Source | Plant fibre, wheat maltodextrin | Plant fibre, rice flour | Fruit, oats, chia seeds |
| Key Vitamins/Minerals | 10+ essential vitamins, calcium | 11+ essential vitamins, calcium | Variable, based on ingredients |
| Processing Level | Ultra-processed | Ultra-processed | Minimal processing (blending) |
| GI Rating | Low GI | Low GI | Variable |
| Sugar | Contains added sugars | Contains added sugars | Added sugars can be controlled |
Making an informed choice for your diet
Choosing a dairy-free breakfast drink comes down to balancing convenience with nutritional quality. Processed options like Up&Go Dairy Free are excellent for rushed mornings, offering a quick, fortified solution. However, for those who have time, a homemade smoothie provides greater control over ingredients and can be less processed, with no added sugars if you stick to fruits for sweetness. A good dairy-free diet should not be a compromise but rather a thoughtful choice. Many plant-based products, like the dairy-free Up&Go, are fortified to provide the same nutrients as their dairy counterparts, such as calcium and Vitamin B12, which are crucial for those on a plant-based diet. For more information on dairy-free lifestyles, consult a reputable source.
Conclusion
In summary, for individuals seeking a dairy-free option for their on-the-go breakfast, Sanitarium has provided a solid solution with its Up&Go Dairy Free. Made with soy protein and fortified with essential nutrients, it offers a comparable experience to the original, though some may notice a slight difference in texture. However, the market offers a wealth of alternatives, from other brand-name plant-based milk drinks to customisable, nutrient-dense homemade smoothies. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities—be it convenience, control over ingredients, or specific nutritional goals. The availability of high-quality dairy-free products means that a plant-based or dairy-sensitive diet no longer has to feel restrictive or inconvenient.
