Best Tasting Organic and Lactose-Free Milk Alternatives

Finding the Best Organic and Lactose-Free Milk

Milk is a popular beveragechoice for many people. However, some have difficulty digesting lactose, themilk sugar found in dairy. Others prefer to buy organic products when possible. This article will explore options for the best organic and lactose-free milk alternatives to meet your individual needs and preferences.

Lactose Intolerance and Milk Alternatives

Around 65% of the global population has some degree of lactose maldigestion or intolerance. For those who experience gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after drinking regular cows milk, plant-based and lactose-free dairy options provide Solutions.

Why Go with Organic Milk?

Organic milk comes from cows not treated withantibiotics or synthetic growth hormones. Organic farming practices promote more sustainable and eco-friendly standards for raising livestock. Choosing organic milk options also avoids pesticide residue and genetically engineered feed found in conventional dairy farming.

The Best Tasting Organic Lactose Free Milk Options

Finding an organic milk that meets both your taste and dietary preferences can take some trial and error. Here are some top choices to consider in your Search.

Lactaid Organic Fat-Free Milk

Lactaid is one of the most recognized brands when it comes to lactose-free milk and ice cream products. Their organic fat-free milk contains no detectable traces of lactose, so it will not trigger digestive issues.

It undergoes a unique process using the lactase enzyme to break down lactose for easy digestibility. The milk has a smooth, creamy texture and pleasant dairy flavor. Each 8 ounce serving provides 70 calories and 8 grams of protein.

Horizon Organic Lactose-Free 2% Reduced Fat Milk

Horizon Organic offers another excellent lactose-free milk option, available in reduced fat and whole varieties. Like Lactaid, they infuse the milk with lactase enzymes to eliminate lactose completely.

The Horizon lactose-free milk provides a sweet, milky taste comparable to traditional dairy. An 8 ounce glass supplies 120 calories and 8 grams of protein. The vitamins and minerals closely match conventional milks nutritional profile as well.

Califia Farms Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk

For those avoiding both lactose and dairy altogether, Califia Farms unsweetened almond milk makes a tasty plant-based swap. Their vanilla flavor adds light sweetness with zero added sugar.

Califia uses only organic almonds and purified water in their nutrient-rich milk. An 8 ounce serving contains just 30 calories yet delivers 50% more calcium than dairy milk. It works wonderfully over cereal, in smoothies, or alone as a drink.

Good Karma Flax Milk

Flax milk offers another creative dairy-free, lactose-free option from Good Karma. This highly-rated milk gets its creaminess from cold-pressed flaxseed oil but contains no overpowering flavor.

Good Karma Flax Milk is packed with healthy omega 3s and pairs well with coffee drinks. It only has 25 to 50 calories per cup depending on variety. For an unsweetened organic choice, their Barista Blend Flax Milk shines.

Adding Supplemental Nutrients to Milk Alternatives

One downside of non-dairy milks involves their lower protein, vitamin, and mineral content versus cows milk. But many brands now boost levels through added enrichment.

Protein

Getting adequate protein is important when substituting dairy milk. Soy milk leads plant-based options with about 8 grams per cup followed by pea and oat milks around 5 to 8 grams.

Many labels now list protein content on the front. Avoid unenriched varieties low in protein. Powdered milk protein can also supplement whats lacking.

Calcium

Dairy milk delivers around 300 mg of calcium per 8 ounces. Getting comparable calcium means checking labels and supplementing if needed. Sesame milk has the most natural calcium followed by fortified soy.

Add a calcium supplement if your milk alternatives fall short. Even lactose-free dairy supplies around 30% of your daily calcium needs.

Vitamin D

This key vitamin gets added to cows milk and allows more absorption of calcium. Vitamin D often gets left out of non-dairy beverages. Hemp, flax, and soy milk offer the best sources of natural vitamin D among plantSwaps.

If vitamin D content seems low compared to dairy milk, taking a daily supplement helps fill nutrient gaps in milk Substitutes.

Vitamin B12

Milk stands out as one of the few natural sources of vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for healthy nerves and blood cells. Yet some enriched brands of almond, soy, rice, and oat milk contain added vitamin B12.

Vegans especially need reliable vitamin B12 sources in their diet. So check your milks label or discuss supplements with your doctor to get enough.

Storing Milk Alternatives Properly

To enjoy your organic and lactose-free milk as long as possible without spoilage, follow these helpful storage tips:

Check Expiration Dates

The typical shelf life of milk alternatives ranges between 7 and 10 days once opened. Write the date you open on the container and stick to expiration or sell-by Dates.

Keep Refrigerated Below 40F

Proper cold holding temperature for opened milk is below 40F just like dairy milk. The exceptions involve shelf-stable varieties allowing storage at room temperature.

Store Tightly Sealed

Screw lids tightly, align caps over spouts, and return cartons carefully to the fridge to avoid leaks or spills. Preventing air exposure keeps milk fresher longer.

Watch for Changes in Smell or Texture

Discard milk that develops an unpleasant or sour smell. Changes in consistency or color also signal it may be time to replace your milk.

Freeze Extras If Possible

Some people freeze extra plant-based or lactose-free milk for later use. Soy, rice, hemp, and oat freeze best up to three months.

Thaw frozen milk overnight in the fridge before drinking. However, separation and changes in texture often occur post-thaw.

Identifying Food Intolerances and Allergies

Lactose is just one compound found in dairy that can cause adverse reactions for some. Make sure to watch for signs of additional intolerances or allergies with milk substitutes.

Common Food Allergens

Know that plant-based milks often contain allergens like soy, nuts, coconut, and gluten. If you suspect a food allergy, consider eliminating items individually to identify the trigger.

Gut Sensitivity to Certain Proteins

Even without a true food allergy, some people experience inflammation, bloating, or other symptoms from specific plant or nut proteins. An elimination diet helps determine your gut sensitivities.

Added Sugars or Preservatives

Ingredients like cane sugar and carrageenan get added to some milk alternatives, either for flavor or texture. Read labels carefully to note or avoid unnecessary additives.

Best Uses for Organic Lactose-Free Milk Options

Finding a milk substitute you enjoy on its own provides the simplest option. But you may prefer using lactose-free or plant-based varieties predominantly for cooking, smoothies, or coffee creamer. Trying different brands for specific uses lets you take advantage of each ones strengths!

Keep these tips in mind when selecting and storing the best organic lactose-free milk alternative to meet your individual dietary needs and preferences.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.