Almond Milk Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Plant-Based Drink

The plant-based drink aisle has never been more crowded, and almond milk reigns supreme. Whether you're looking for an alternative to cow's milk, an option for your morning coffee, or simply a light and delicious drink, the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. Between organic, sugar-free, fortified, and special barista versions, how do you navigate it all??

As the Head of Product Recommendations at Joybuy, my mission is to help you see things more clearly. This guide is designed to give you all the key information you need to choose the almond-based drink that perfectly suits your tastes and lifestyle.

Buying Guide?: 3 Criteria for Choosing Your Almond Milk

To make an informed choice, you need to know how to read between the lines on the packaging. Here are three essential points to check before adding a carton to your basket.

1. Almond Content and Ingredient List

The almond content is crucial for the drink's taste and texture. It generally ranges from 2% to 8%. A higher percentage often means a bolder flavour and a creamier consistency.

Also, take a close look at the ingredient list: as a rule of thumb, the shorter, the better. If you're looking for a sugar-free almond milk, look for the "no added sugar" label and check the "of which sugars" line on the nutritional information panel.

2. Intended Use?: Coffee, Cooking, or Drinking Plain??

Not all almond drinks are created equal when it comes to their use.

• For coffee?: Opt for a barista almond milk. These formulas are specially designed to create a stable, creamy foam and to withstand heat without curdling. They often contain slightly more (plant-based) fat to ensure a perfect emulsion.
• For cooking and baking?: A neutral, unsweetened version will be much more versatile.
• For drinking on its own or with cereal?: Here, it all comes down to your personal preference. A lightly sweetened or flavoured version can be very pleasant, while a plain option will appeal to those who prefer a more natural taste.

3. Special Features?: Organic, Fortified, or Plain??

The market offers several variations to meet specific needs.

• Organic almond milk?: The organic certification guarantees that the almonds were grown without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilisers, in accordance with European standards.
• Fortified drinks?: Some drinks are supplemented with calcium and vitamins (D, B2, B12) to more closely match the nutritional profile of cow's milk. This is a real plus for those on a 100% plant-based diet who want to ensure their nutritional intake.

Recommended Almond Milk Options

To help you put theory into practice, here are three products we recommend, each catering to a different need.

NATRUE 0% Almond Drink Barista Edition 1L

Why this product stands out?: This version is the perfect partner for lovers of almond milk for coffee. Its formula is designed to achieve a professional-quality foam and a velvety texture in your cappuccinos and lattes, without ever altering the taste of your coffee.

Key features?:

• Barista Formula?: Designed to foam perfectly and not separate in hot drinks.
• 0% Sugar?: No added sugar, giving you full control over the sweetness of your drinks.
• Simple Ingredients?: A clean ingredient list, with a touch of rapeseed oil to aid emulsion.

Who is it for?? Ideal for coffee enthusiasts who want to achieve coffee-shop quality results at home, without the sugar.

View product on Joybuy.fr

Alpro Almond Drink 1L

Why this product stands out?: Alpro delivers a highly versatile and fortified almond drink, making it an excellent everyday alternative to cow's milk. We love its smooth, approachable roasted almond taste.

Key features?:

• Fortified with vitamins and calcium?: A good source of vitamins B2, B12, E, D2, and calcium.
• Low in calories?: Only 24 kcal per 100?ml.
• Versatility?: Perfect in breakfast cereals, on its own, or in your favourite recipes.

Who is it for?? For families and anyone looking for an everyday plant-based drink with the added bonus of vitamins and minerals.

View product on Joybuy.fr

BJORG Organic Intense Almond Milk 1L

Why this product stands out?: With its high almond content and organic certification, this BJORG drink is all about intense flavour and quality ingredients. A choice for purists who want an authentic and pronounced almond taste.

Key features?:

• High almond content (7%)?: For a rich taste and creamy texture.
• Certified organic?: Made with ingredients from organic farming, pure and simple.
• Intense flavour?: Perfect for recipes where the almond flavour needs to shine, or for drinking on its own.

Who is it for?? For consumers seeking an organic almond milk with a powerful, natural taste and an impeccable ingredient list.

View product on Joybuy.fr

Want to Explore Other Plant-Based Options??

The world of plant-based drinks is vast and doesn't stop at almond. If you're curious to discover other flavours and textures, such as oat, soy, or rice milk, we have just what you need.

Explore our full range to find the perfect drink for your daily routine.

Discover our Plant-Based & Long-Life Dairy category

Frequently Asked Questions About Almond Milk

What's the difference between a "barista" almond milk and a classic one??

The difference lies mainly in the recipe. A barista almond milk generally contains slightly more plant-based protein and fat, as well as stabilisers. The goal? To allow it to whip into a dense, stable foam and mix well with hot drinks like coffee, without separating. A classic drink, on the other hand, is designed more for drinking cold or for use in cooking.

Is almond milk a good alternative to cow's milk??

Almond milk is a very popular plant-based alternative, and for good reason: it's naturally lactose-free, cholesterol-free, and often lower in calories and saturated fat. However, be aware that it contains significantly less protein than cow's milk. For a closer nutritional profile, it's best to opt for a version fortified with calcium and vitamins.

How should I store almond milk after opening??

Once the carton is opened, almond milk must be stored in the refrigerator. It is recommended to consume it within 4 to 5 days to ensure its freshness and taste. Remember to shake the carton well before each use: a slight natural sediment may form at the bottom, which is completely normal.