Why are Seed Oils Added to Oat Milk?
For consumers seeking a cleaner, less processed product, the inclusion of seed oils in oat milk can be confusing. However, manufacturers add these oils for a few functional reasons. Seed oils like rapeseed (canola) or sunflower oil serve as an emulsifier, preventing the natural separation of the oats and water. This results in a smoother, more consistent liquid. The oil also increases the fat content, which adds to the richness and creaminess that many people expect from dairy alternatives, especially barista blends that need to froth and steam properly for coffee. For those watching their intake of processed ingredients, these additions are a deal-breaker, prompting a search for brands with a simpler, cleaner ingredient deck.
Top Brands of Oat Milk Without Added Seed Oils
Navigating the grocery store for a seed oil-free option requires a careful look at the ingredient list. Several brands have responded to consumer demand by offering formulations free of these additives. While availability can vary by region, here are some of the most reliable options.
Elmhurst 1925 Milked Oats: Unsweetened
This brand is a top contender for clean-ingredient seekers. Elmhurst prides itself on its 'milked' products, using a unique process that eliminates the need for emulsifiers and gums. The unsweetened version is famously simple, containing only filtered water, oats, and salt. This gives it a clean, straightforward oat flavor, though some find it less creamy than other brands. It is an excellent choice for cooking, baking, and for those who prioritize a minimally processed drink.
Plenish Organic Oat Milk (UK)
For UK consumers, Plenish offers an organic oat drink with a very short ingredient list: just oats, water, and a pinch of sea salt. Plenish is known for avoiding added oils, sugars, and flavorings. Its minimalist approach relies on the natural sweetness and flavor of the organic oats. It provides a pure, clean taste and works well in cereals and smoothies. Along with Califia Farms, Plenish also holds a high ethical and sustainability score, according to The Good Shopping Guide.
Oatly Low Fat Oatmilk (North America)
In a significant win for North American oat milk fans, Oatly's Low Fat Oatmilk product is formulated without added oils. Unlike the Original or Barista versions, which contain rapeseed (canola) oil, the Low Fat version has a cleaner ingredient list. This makes it a great choice for those who still want to use a major brand but prefer to avoid seed oils. Be sure to check the label, as this only applies to the Low Fat version in North America, and ingredient lists differ internationally.
Glebe Farm PureOaty Organic Barista Oat Drink (UK)
Another UK-specific brand, Glebe Farm, is known for its PureOaty Organic Barista Oat Drink. The company produces and packs the drink using its own gluten-free oats. Crucially, it does so without adding any oils or unnecessary emulsifiers. This makes it a great option for coffee drinkers in the UK who need a barista-quality milk that is also seed oil-free. It's an excellent example of a brand designing specifically for the oil-free market.
How to Choose the Best Oat Milk for You
When selecting a brand, consider your primary usage and preferences. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
- For Coffee Lovers: If you need a milk that froths and steams well, a barista-style formulation is usually best. While some oil-free options like Glebe Farm PureOaty are designed for this, they may not perform identically to those with added oils. Home-blended recipes using cashews or coconut cream can mimic barista blends well.
- For Purity: If your goal is to consume the most natural, least processed product, brands like Elmhurst and Plenish are ideal due to their very short ingredient lists. They rely on the inherent creaminess of the oat base rather than added fats.
- For a Budget-Friendly Option: Making your own oat milk is the most cost-effective way to guarantee an oil-free drink. With just oats, water, and a blender, you can produce a fresh batch for a fraction of the cost of store-bought cartons.
Comparison of Oat Milks (with and without Seed Oils)
| Brand | Product | Oil-Free | Added Ingredients | Best For | Regional Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elmhurst | Unsweetened Milked Oats | Yes | Water, Oats, Salt | Baking, Cooking, Purity | USA |
| Plenish | Organic Oat Milk | Yes | Water, Oats, Salt | Purity, Cereal | UK |
| Oatly | Low Fat Oatmilk | Yes | Water, Oats, Fortificants | All-Purpose, Low-Fat | North America |
| Glebe Farm | PureOaty Organic Barista | Yes | Water, Oats | Coffee, Barista | UK |
| Califia Farms | Barista Blend | No | Sunflower Oil, Fortificants | Coffee, Creaminess | Worldwide |
| Oatly | Original/Barista Blend | No | Rapeseed Oil, Fortificants | Coffee, Creaminess | Worldwide |
Make Your Own Oil-Free Oat Milk
If you want complete control over your ingredients, crafting your own oat milk is a simple and rewarding process. A basic recipe requires just oats, water, and an optional sweetener. For a creamier result reminiscent of store-bought versions, you can add nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes. The key to avoiding a slimy texture is to not over-blend and to use cold water. By making it at home, you can customize the consistency and flavor perfectly while ensuring it is completely free of added seed oils. Here is a basic recipe:
- Add 1/2 cup organic old-fashioned rolled oats to a high-speed blender with 4 cups of cold water.
- Blend for no more than 30 seconds. Over-blending creates a slimy texture.
- Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine cheesecloth. Do not squeeze too hard.
- Refrigerate and enjoy within 5-7 days. Shake well before serving.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Oil-Free Option
The quest for the best oat milk brand without seed oils comes down to personal preference and a willingness to scrutinize ingredient labels. While many popular brands, such as Oatly Original and Califia Farms Barista, rely on oils for their signature creaminess, excellent alternatives exist. Brands like Elmhurst and Plenish offer ultra-clean options, Oatly's Low-Fat version provides a widely available choice without added oil, and Glebe Farm caters to the UK barista market with an oil-free product. Ultimately, the right choice is the one that aligns with your health goals, taste preferences, and ingredient standards. Don't be afraid to read labels carefully and explore the growing market of clean, oil-free options, or even try your hand at making a fresh batch at home.
How to make oat milk that doesn’t contain seed oil
To make homemade, oil-free oat milk, simply blend 1/2 cup of organic rolled oats with 4 cups of cold filtered water for no more than 30 seconds. Over-blending can create a slimy texture. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine-mesh sieve and refrigerate for up to a week. For extra creaminess, some recipes suggest adding a small amount of soaked cashews or coconut cream before blending.
The Problem with Oatly Oat Milk
While Oatly is a popular choice, many of its most common products contain rapeseed (canola) oil to achieve a creamy texture and act as an emulsifier. Oatly has been transparent about its use of the oil, citing its neutral taste and fat composition. However, this is a concern for consumers actively trying to avoid seed oils. Some critics also point to the high glycemic load created during Oatly's manufacturing process, where enzymes convert starches into high-glycemic maltose sugars. It’s important to note that the North American Oatly Low Fat variety does not contain added oil.
