The Quest for Simple Almond Milk
Many consumers are turning to plant-based milk alternatives for a variety of reasons, including lactose intolerance, dietary preferences, and a desire to avoid dairy products. Almond milk is a popular choice, but a quick scan of the ingredient list on most cartons reveals more than just almonds and water. Common additions include thickeners, stabilizers, preservatives, and sweeteners, which can detract from the product's nutritional value and appeal to those following a clean-eating lifestyle.
The drive for simple-ingredient almond milk is fueled by concerns over additives. Gums like carrageenan, xanthan, and gellan gum are used to create a creamy texture and prevent separation, but some individuals report digestive issues and inflammation when consuming them. Added sugars are another frequent concern, as sweetened versions can contain a significant amount of sugar per serving. By choosing a product with minimal ingredients, you prioritize a cleaner, more natural beverage.
Brands with Just Almonds and Water (and Sometimes Salt)
Fortunately, several brands have responded to consumer demand by producing almond milk with minimal ingredients. While some may include a pinch of salt for flavor, the core recipe remains true to a simple almonds-and-water formula. Some of the most notable options include:
- Elmhurst 1925 Unsweetened Milked Almonds: This brand is a top contender, explicitly stating that its unsweetened version is made with just filtered water and almonds. It uses a unique method called HydroRelease® to achieve a creamy texture without added gums or emulsifiers.
- MALK Organic Unsweetened Almond Milk: MALK is known for its commitment to simplicity. Its unsweetened variety is made with just organic almonds, filtered water, and Himalayan pink salt, containing no gums, oils, or fillers.
- Three Trees Almondmilk Unsweetened Original: This brand offers a pure almond milk with only organic almonds and water, ensuring a clean and additive-free product.
- Nuthatch Fresh Plant-Based Milks (Almond): Made with just purified water and organic blanched almonds, this product is prized for its simplicity and the fact that it uses skinless almonds for a less bitter flavor.
How to Read the Label
When searching for clean almond milk, the most reliable strategy is to carefully read the ingredient list. The most important things to look for include:
- Unsweetened: Always choose the unsweetened version to avoid unnecessary added sugars.
- Minimal Ingredients: The shorter the ingredient list, the better. The best options will list only almonds and water (and sometimes salt).
- Avoid Gums and Emulsifiers: Scan for common thickeners and stabilizers like carrageenan, gellan gum, xanthan gum, or sunflower lecithin. Brands that use more almonds often don't need these additives.
- Consider Certifications: Look for certifications like USDA Organic or Non-GMO Project Verified, which indicate a commitment to quality ingredients.
The Additive Debate: Why Avoid Certain Ingredients?
While food additives are generally recognized as safe, some people choose to avoid them for health or dietary reasons. The primary concerns with almond milk additives are centered around potential digestive irritation and the unnecessary processing of a simple food.
Common Additives to Watch For:
- Carrageenan: Derived from red seaweed, this stabilizer has been linked to potential gut inflammation in some studies. Many people report digestive issues when consuming products with carrageenan, and some brands now specifically market themselves as 'carrageenan-free'.
- Gums (Guar, Gellan, Xanthan): These are used to thicken and emulsify the milk. While they prevent separation, they can cause digestive discomfort and bloating in sensitive individuals.
- Added Sugars (Cane Sugar, Evaporated Cane Juice): These add sweetness and extra calories without nutritional benefit. Sticking to unsweetened varieties is the best way to avoid them.
- Vegetable Oils: Some brands add oils like sunflower or canola oil to create a richer mouthfeel. These are often inflammatory and not part of a whole-foods diet.
The Homemade Alternative: Total Control
For absolute control over ingredients and freshness, making almond milk at home is the best option. The process is surprisingly simple, requiring just raw almonds, water, and a blender. This method ensures there are no hidden additives, and the milk has a much fresher taste.
Recipe for Homemade Almond Milk (Just 2 Ingredients):
- Soak: Place 1 cup of raw almonds in a bowl and cover with water. Soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This softens the almonds and makes them easier to blend.
- Drain and Rinse: Drain the soaking water and rinse the almonds thoroughly.
- Blend: Add the soaked almonds and 4 cups of fresh, filtered water to a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until creamy and frothy.
- Strain: Pour the mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth into a bowl. Squeeze the bag to extract all the liquid.
- Store: Transfer the finished milk to a sealed jar and refrigerate. Enjoy within 3-5 days.
Comparison of Almond Milk Options
| Feature | Clean-Ingredient Brands (e.g., Elmhurst, MALK) | Conventional Brands (e.g., Silk, Almond Breeze) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Typically just almonds, water, and salt | Almonds, water, sugars, gums (carrageenan, guar), emulsifiers, vitamins, and preservatives |
| Taste | Pure, nutty flavor, often more robust due to higher almond content | Milder, sometimes sweeter flavor, can taste more processed |
| Texture | Thinner consistency, but some premium brands achieve creaminess with higher nut concentration | Often thicker and more stable due to added gums and emulsifiers |
| Additives | Minimal to no additives | Contains stabilizers, thickeners, and preservatives for texture and shelf-life |
| DIY Option | Closest to homemade in terms of ingredients and taste | Ingredients are harder to replicate at home due to extensive processing |
Conclusion
Choosing which almond milk is just almonds and water doesn't have to be a guessing game. By focusing on brands like Elmhurst 1925, MALK, and Three Trees, or by making it yourself, you can enjoy a pure, clean-label alternative to traditional dairy milk. Reading ingredient labels is the most important step to avoid unwanted additives like gums and sugars that are prevalent in many conventional products. Whether for dietary needs or a commitment to cleaner eating, a simple two-ingredient almond milk is an excellent, nourishing choice for any diet.
Visit the Almond Board of California for more nutritional information on almonds.
