The Core Ingredients of Alpro Not Milk
At its heart, Alpro not milk is a plant-based beverage made from a combination of natural ingredients designed to create a mild, creamy taste and smooth texture. The primary component is an oat base, created by blending European-harvested oats with water. This oat-and-water mixture forms the bulk of the product, providing its characteristic flavour profile.
To achieve a richness that mimics dairy, the recipe incorporates sunflower oil. This plant-based fat is essential for delivering the desired mouthfeel, which varies depending on the product version. For instance, the 'Whole' variety has a higher fat content (3.5%) for a richer flavour, while the 'Semi' has a lower fat percentage (1.8%) for a milder profile.
Understanding the Functional Components
Beyond the oat base and oil, several other ingredients are added to perfect the drink's stability, nutritional profile, and flavour. Pea protein is included to help with creaminess and mouthfeel. Chicory root fibre or soluble corn fibre is often used as a source of dietary fibre, contributing to the product's texture.
Essential minerals and vitamins are fortified into the drink to ensure it is a nutritious alternative to cow's milk. These include calcium carbonate, used to add calcium, and vitamins D2, B12, and sometimes B2, to boost nutritional value. A stabiliser like gellan gum is also added to keep the ingredients uniformly mixed and to prevent separation. Potassium phosphate is used as an acidity regulator to help with stability and flavour balance. Finally, a pinch of sea salt and natural flavourings round out the recipe to enhance the overall taste.
The Purpose of Key Ingredients
- Oat Base: Provides the foundational flavour, texture, and carbohydrates. Alpro uses European oats, which are known for their mild and creamy character.
- Sunflower Oil: A key plant-based fat source that contributes to the rich, creamy consistency and helps suspend the oat particles.
- Chicory Root Fibre: A source of dietary fibre that contributes to the product's body and mouthfeel.
- Pea Protein: Helps with emulsification and adds a smooth texture to the drink.
- Calcium Carbonate: A source of fortified calcium, an important nutrient for bone health that is not naturally abundant in oats.
- Vitamins (D2, B12): Important micronutrients added to mirror the nutritional benefits of dairy milk.
- Gellan Gum: A stabiliser that prevents ingredients from separating, ensuring a consistent texture in every pour.
Whole vs. Semi-Skimmed Alpro Not Milk
Alpro offers its 'not milk' in two primary varieties: 'Whole' and 'Semi'. The key difference lies in the fat content, which in turn affects the flavour, creaminess, and nutritional density. The 'Whole' version contains 3.5% fat, offering a richer, fuller taste, while the 'Semi' version has a lower 1.8% fat, resulting in a milder, smoother drink.
| Feature | Alpro 'Whole' (3.5% Fat) | Alpro 'Semi' (1.8% Fat) |
|---|---|---|
| Fat Content | 3.5% | 1.8% |
| Taste Profile | Rich and creamy | Smoother and milder |
| Key Fat Ingredient | Sunflower oil, Shea oil (in some versions) | Sunflower oil |
| Calories (approx. per 100ml) | 59 kcal | 46 kcal |
| Best For | Coffee, baking, sauces, or drinking on its own for a richer taste | Cereal, tea, smoothies, or drinking on its own for a lighter option |
Conclusion: A Plant-Powered Alternative
Alpro not milk is a carefully formulated plant-based drink designed to provide a satisfying, dairy-free alternative for consumers. It is a 100% vegan product, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. The drink's ingredients, centred around European oats, sunflower oil, and added vitamins and minerals, are selected to mimic the creamy flavour and texture of cow's milk. While fortified with important nutrients like calcium and vitamins D and B12, it is important to note that Alpro oat drinks contain gluten from the oats themselves and are not suitable for gluten-free diets. With its versatile uses and dedication to a plant-based recipe, Alpro has created a popular and accessible option for those looking to explore dairy alternatives. You can find more product information on the official Alpro UK website(https://www.alpro.com/uk/products/drinks/not-mlk-semi).
