Understanding Oatside Coffee’s Ingredients and Nutrition
Determining if Oatside coffee is healthy involves examining its ingredients and nutritional profile. The ready-to-drink coffee combines Oatside's oat milk with coffee extract and other components.
A 200ml serving typically contains about 154 kcal, 21.4g of carbohydrates, 9.8g of sugars (including added palm sugar), 7g of fat, 1.4g of protein, and 2.4g of fiber. It also contains at least 60mg of caffeine per 200ml. While the Barista Blend oat milk has no added sugar, the coffee and mocha versions do, increasing calories and sugar. Canola oil is added for texture, contributing to the fat content.
The Health Benefits of Oatside Coffee
Oatside coffee offers several health benefits, mainly from its oat base:
- Lactose-Free and Dairy-Free: It's a plant-based option suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- Heart Health: The beta-glucans in oats are a soluble fiber linked to reducing LDL cholesterol and supporting heart health.
- Fiber Source: The fiber aids digestion and can help with satiety.
- Sustainable: Oatside production is more environmentally friendly than dairy farming.
- Fortified: Products are often fortified with calcium for bone health.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
Potential drawbacks should also be considered:
- Sugar Content: The ready-to-drink coffee contains added sugars, contributing to higher intake than plain oat milk or dairy. Moderation is advised, especially for those monitoring sugar or carb intake.
- Lower Protein: Oatside contains significantly less protein (1.4g/200ml) compared to cow's milk (around 7.6g/200ml), which may affect satiety and muscle repair.
- Ultra-Processed: The manufacturing process and additives classify oat milk as ultra-processed.
- Higher Carbohydrates: It is higher in carbs than dairy milk or some other plant milks like almond milk.
Oatside Coffee vs. Other Milk Options: A Comparison
Here's a comparison of Oatside coffee with other milk options (typical 200ml serving):
| Feature | Oatside Coffee (Ready-to-Drink) | Whole Cow's Milk | Oatside Barista Blend (Plain) | Unsweetened Almond Milk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~154 kcal | ~124 kcal | ~130 kcal | ~30 kcal |
| Protein | ~1.4 g | ~7.6 g | ~1.2 g | ~1.2 g |
| Sugars | ~9.8 g (includes added) | ~9.6 g (lactose) | ~5.6 g (from oats) | <1 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~0.6 g | ~4.8 g | Very low | Very low |
| Fiber | ~2.4 g | 0 g | ~2.4 g | <1 g |
Can you make Oatside coffee healthier?
To enhance the health aspects of Oatside coffee:
- Dilute the ready-to-drink version with water or unsweetened milk.
- Use Oatside's plain Barista Blend with homemade coffee to control sugar.
- Pair with a protein-rich snack to improve satiety.
- Consume in moderation as an occasional treat.
Conclusion: Is Oatside coffee healthy?
Whether Oatside coffee is healthy depends on individual dietary needs and consumption habits. It's a convenient, dairy-free option with heart-healthy fiber and calcium fortification. However, the ready-to-drink version contains more sugar and less protein than dairy milk and is considered processed. For a healthier approach, using Oatside's Barista Blend with homemade coffee is recommended. Enjoying it mindfully as part of a balanced diet is key.
