If you want dairy flavor but no dairy
Those who switch to a plant-based diet may miss the pleasures of dairy beverages. But as more people consume plant-based foods, brands are coming up with tasty alternatives that don’t feel like a sacrifice. One warning, though. Many products boost the flavor with added sugars, so read labels carefully. For those looking to cut back on dairy, here are some ideas:
Nutty idea for yogurt
Cultured coconut and almond milk, oat fiber and fruit juices make up the Probiotic Yogurt drinks from Califia Farms. Each 8 oz. serving contains probiotics and comes in flavors such as unsweetened plain, mango, strawberry and super berry, and contain between 100 and 150 calories. Available in 8 oz. and 25.4 oz bottles, priced $2.69 or $5.49 respectively, at Gelson’s, Lassens, Vons, Albertsons. califiafarms.com
Gutsy choice
The nondairy yogurt drink Halsa Oatgurt boasts prebiotics and probiotics said to foster gut health, fermented organic wholegrain oats, pea protein and organic fruit, with no added sugars, in 120 to 130 calories per 8 oz bottle. Flavors include blueberry, mango pear, strawberry and apple cinnamon. $17.94 for a case of six at amazon.com. halsafoods.com
At peace with peas
More pea-based milks are showing up on grocery shelves, as a dairy-free alternative to nuts, rice and soy. From Bolthouse Farms comes creamy milks made from pea protein, offering 10 grams of protein per serving and with between 90 and 160 calories in an 8 oz. serving. Available in unsweetened, original, vanilla and chocolate. $4.49 for 48 oz. at Ralphs. bolthouse.com
Ripples with protein
For a post-workout boost, new shakes from Berkeley-based Ripple Foods have 20 grams of protein per serving — from peas. The formula also claims to help with muscle soreness and promote recovery after touch workouts. The drinks do not need to be refrigerated, and each 12-oz. serving has 200 calories. Available in vanilla and chocolate. $9.99 for a four-pack at Target. ripplefoods.com