Do You Get Vitamin D From Almond Milk?

December 27, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, very few foods naturally contain vitamin D, which is why fortification is a common public health strategy. When it comes to almond milk, the presence of this essential nutrient is not a given; it depends entirely on the manufacturing process.

Quick Summary

Almond milk does not naturally contain vitamin D but is frequently fortified during production, making it a viable source. Consumers must check the product label to confirm fortification, as nutrient content varies significantly by brand. Homemade versions lack added vitamins and minerals. The amount of added vitamin D is often comparable to fortified dairy milk.

Key Points

No Natural Vitamin D: Almonds and unfortified almond milk contain no significant amount of vitamin D.
Fortification is Key: Commercial almond milk is a source of vitamin D only if it has been fortified by the manufacturer.
Read the Label: The amount of vitamin D varies by brand, so always check the nutrition facts panel before purchasing.
Homemade Versions Lack Fortification: Homemade almond milk does not contain added vitamin D, calcium, or other fortified nutrients found in store-bought varieties.
Part of a Broader Strategy: For most people, consuming fortified almond milk should be part of a larger strategy for vitamin D intake, including sun exposure and potentially supplements.
D2 vs. D3: Fortified plant milks typically use vitamin D2, but some use vegan D3. Vegans should check the label to ensure the sourcing aligns with their dietary restrictions.

Does Almond Milk Contain Vitamin D Naturally?

Contrary to some assumptions, vitamin D is not naturally present in almonds or almond milk in any significant amount. Almonds themselves are known for their healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, but not for providing the "sunshine vitamin". This means that any vitamin D content found in commercial almond milk is a direct result of fortification by the manufacturer. This process involves adding vitamins and minerals to food products to enhance their nutritional value and help consumers meet their daily requirements.

The Crucial Role of Fortification

Fortification is a standard practice for many plant-based milk alternatives, including almond milk, to help replicate the nutritional profile of cow's milk. The decision to add vitamin D, calcium, and other nutrients is at the manufacturer's discretion, and the amounts can vary widely. Therefore, it is imperative for consumers to read the nutritional facts panel on the packaging to determine if and how much vitamin D has been added.

Types of Vitamin D Used in Fortification

There are two primary forms of vitamin D used in fortified foods:

Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol): This form is derived from plants and is produced by irradiating yeast. As a result, it is suitable for vegans.
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol): Often sourced from animal products, specifically the lanolin in sheep's wool. However, some vegan-friendly D3 is available, sourced from lichen.

While some studies suggest D3 may be slightly more effective at raising blood levels, both forms are well-absorbed by the body. Consumers on a strict vegan diet should pay attention to the specific type of vitamin D listed in the ingredients.

Fortified vs. Homemade Almond Milk

One of the most significant differences lies between store-bought fortified almond milk and homemade versions. While the DIY option offers a preservative-free beverage, it lacks the added vitamins and minerals that make commercial products nutritionally comparable to dairy milk.

Benefits of Fortified Almond Milk

Bone Health: Along with added calcium, vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
Low in Calories: For those managing their weight, unsweetened almond milk is generally lower in calories than cow's milk.
Immune Support: Vitamin D plays a key role in supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
Vegan-Friendly: It provides a dairy-free source of essential nutrients for those avoiding animal products.

The Drawbacks of Homemade Almond Milk

No Vitamin D: Without fortification, homemade almond milk provides no meaningful amount of vitamin D.
Lower Calcium: It also contains significantly less calcium, as this mineral is not readily bioavailable in unprocessed almonds.
Fewer Nutrients: Important nutrients like vitamin B12 and vitamin A, which are often added to commercial products, will be missing.

How to Ensure Adequate Vitamin D Intake

For those relying on almond milk as a dietary source of vitamin D, it is vital to be diligent. First, always check the nutrition label for the vitamin D content. Second, remember that dietary sources alone may not be enough, especially during winter months or for those with limited sun exposure. Regular blood tests can help monitor your levels, and a doctor might recommend supplements if needed.

Comparison: Fortified Almond Milk vs. Dairy Milk


Feature	Fortified Almond Milk	Fortified Dairy Milk
Natural Vitamin D	No	No (usually added)
Added Vitamin D	Yes, but varies by brand	Yes, regulated and standardized
Calcium Content	Varies, but often fortified to match or exceed dairy	Standardized and reliable
Protein Content	Low (typically ~1g per cup)	High (typically ~8g per cup)
Fat Content	Generally lower in calories and fat	Varies by type (skim, 2%, whole)
Allergens	Contains tree nuts (almonds)	Contains dairy (lactose)
Vegan	Yes	No

Conclusion

While raw almonds and homemade almond milk offer no significant vitamin D, commercially available almond milk can be a good source of this nutrient, provided it is fortified. The key is to be an informed consumer by consistently checking product labels for the vitamin D content. For individuals with limited sun exposure, relying solely on almond milk for this vital nutrient is not recommended without also considering other dietary sources, sun exposure, or supplements as advised by a healthcare professional. Fortified almond milk can be an excellent addition to a balanced diet, particularly for vegans or those with lactose intolerance, but it is not a magical solution for all vitamin D needs.

Check out the latest scientific findings on vitamin D fortification in plant-based milks.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, almond milk is not a natural source of vitamin D. The vitamin D found in commercial almond milk is added through a process called fortification to enhance its nutritional value.

You can tell if your almond milk contains vitamin D by checking the nutrition facts label on the product's packaging. The label will list the amount of vitamin D per serving if it has been added by the manufacturer.

No, homemade almond milk does not contain vitamin D. Since the vitamin is not naturally present in almonds, it is only found in commercial versions that have been fortified.

The amount of vitamin D in fortified almond milk varies by brand. However, a typical fortified cup can provide a significant percentage of the daily recommended value, often comparable to fortified cow's milk.

The type of vitamin D added to almond milk can be either D2 or D3. Vitamin D2 is plant-based and always vegan. Some vitamin D3 is sourced from lanolin (from sheep's wool), but vegan D3 from lichen is also available. Vegans should check the specific type on the ingredients list.

While fortified almond milk can be a useful dietary source, it's not recommended to rely on it exclusively. Vitamin D is also obtained from sun exposure and other fortified foods, and some individuals may need supplements.

The absorption of minerals like calcium can be affected by the presence of phytic acid in almonds. However, manufacturers often use highly bioavailable forms of calcium to ensure proper absorption.

No, almond milk is significantly lower in protein than dairy milk. A cup of almond milk typically contains only about 1 gram of protein, while cow's milk has about 8 grams.