Your Guide to Selecting the Right Almond Milk
Choosing the best almond milk isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. The 'best' option depends on your intended use, dietary preferences, and budget. Key factors to consider include the almond content, ingredient list, and whether it is a specialist barista blend or a general-purpose milk alternative.
Key Considerations When Buying Almond Milk
- Almond Percentage: Many people are surprised to learn that some almond milks contain as little as 1-2% almonds, with the majority being water and additives. Brands like Rude Health 'Ultimate' and Plenish feature significantly higher almond content, often leading to a richer flavour and creamier texture.
- Ingredient Purity: For those seeking the most natural option, look for brands with minimal ingredients, typically just almonds, water, and salt. Other brands might contain added sugars, emulsifiers (like sunflower lecithin), and thickeners (such as gellan gum), which can affect both health benefits and taste.
- Fortification: Many brands fortify their almond milk with essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin D, and B12. If you are replacing dairy and rely on milk for these nutrients, checking the nutritional information is crucial. M&S Plant Kitchen, for example, is noted for its fortification.
- Barista vs. Standard: If you intend to add your almond milk to hot coffee, opting for a 'barista' version is essential. These blends are specifically formulated with added oils and stabilisers to prevent splitting and to create better foam. Regular almond milk often curdles in acidic coffee.
- Taste Profile: Taste varies greatly between brands, from nutty and creamy to thin and watery. For example, Rude Health's standard almond drink is noted for a natural sweetness, while Plenish offers a clean, pure almond taste.
Comparison Table: Leading UK Almond Milk Brands
| Brand | Almond % | Ingredients | Best For | Fortified | Price Range (1L) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpro | ~2.3% | Almonds, water, sugar (Original), stabilisers, vitamins | Everyday use, Budget-friendly | Yes | £1.50 - £2.20 |
| Plenish Organic | ~6% | Almonds, water, sea salt | Minimalist ingredients, Smoothies | No | £2.35 - £2.45 |
| Rude Health | ~1-8% (varies) | Almonds, water, rice (Original), or water (Ultimate) | Purity (Ultimate), Smoothies | No | £2.30 - £3.85 |
| Califia Farms | N/A | Californian almonds, water, stabilisers | Subtle taste, Creamy texture | Yes | £2.25 - £3.00 (750ml) |
| Blue Diamond | 2% | Almonds, water, salt, emulsifier, stabilisers, vitamins | Low-calorie (unsweetened), Smooth texture | Yes | £1.40 - £1.90 |
Reviews of Top UK Almond Milks
Plenish Organic Almond Milk
Plenish consistently receives praise for its clean, pure ingredients. The organic, unsweetened version is made with a high almond content (around 6%) and minimal additives, resulting in a fresh and natural flavour. The texture is a step above many competitors, though some may find it a little coarse due to the high nut content. This makes it an excellent choice for smoothies, overnight oats, or simply drinking chilled.
Alpro Almond Drink
As one of the most accessible and budget-friendly brands, Alpro is a staple in UK supermarkets. Its almond content is lower compared to premium alternatives, and the ingredient list is longer, including thickeners and emulsifiers. However, its barista blend is a popular choice for coffee, consistently delivering a good foam without splitting. It offers a reliable, everyday option for general use.
Rude Health Almond Drink
Rude Health provides two distinct almond milks: a standard version and the 'Ultimate'. The standard drink is made with rice to add natural sweetness and body, while the 'Ultimate' is a purist's dream, containing just organic almonds and spring water. The 'Ultimate' is exceptionally clean-tasting but is more expensive, while the standard works well for adding to cereals. Rude Health is also a certified B Corp, emphasising its commitment to high environmental and social standards.
Califia Farms Unsweetened Almond Milk
This Californian brand is a favourite among those who value a smooth and creamy texture with a subtle nutty taste. It uses a minimal ingredient list for its unsweetened version, avoiding carrageenan. While it's great for smoothies and drinking on its own, reviewers note that the standard version does not froth well for lattes. The specialist Barista blend is required for coffee applications.
Blue Diamond Almond Breeze
Almond Breeze is a long-standing and widely available brand known for its smooth texture and consistency. The unsweetened version is very low in calories, making it popular for those watching their intake. It is fortified with calcium and vitamins, offering nutritional value. While the taste is pleasant, some reviewers find it less rich than brands with higher almond content. It performs well in hot drinks but may not froth as effectively as dedicated barista blends.
Choosing the Right Almond Milk for Your Needs
- For Coffee & Lattes: If you want a perfectly foamy latte that doesn't split, a barista blend is non-negotiable. Top performers include Califia Farms Barista Blend and Plenish Organic Barista Almond. Alpro Barista also offers a widely available, affordable option.
- For Smoothies & Cereal: For cold applications where additives are a concern, look for brands with a high almond percentage and minimal ingredients. Plenish Organic and Rude Health Ultimate are excellent choices for a pure, rich flavour. Blue Diamond Almond Breeze is also a solid, low-calorie contender.
- For Purity & Minimalism: If you want to avoid additives and gums, Plenish Organic Unsweetened is hard to beat, with just almonds, water, and salt. Rude Health's 'Ultimate' is another excellent, pure option.
- For Budget-Conscious Shopping: Supermarket own-brand options like Tesco and Aldi offer very competitive prices for everyday use. However, be sure to check the ingredient list for fillers and the almond percentage, which tends to be lower.
Conclusion
There is no single winner for "what is the best almond milk in the UK," as the ideal choice depends on your personal priorities. For the purest ingredients and best flavour in smoothies or cereal, a high-content organic option like Plenish stands out. If a perfect latte is your goal, invest in a reliable barista blend from brands like Califia Farms or Alpro. For a balance of quality, availability, and value, Blue Diamond Almond Breeze is a strong all-rounder. Ultimately, reading the label and considering your primary use is the best way to find the perfect almond milk for you. For more expert reviews on a wider range of plant-based milks, check out an independent consumer test like this one from The Independent.
