5 Alternatives To Traditional Dairy

If you don't want your standard glass of milk, you can find soy milk, almond milk, rice milk, and now... grass milk? Don't worry, it's not made from anyone's lawn, but it does come from cows who consume a diet of only grass and hay, rather than corn or animal byproducts (ew!).

Organic Valley Grassmilk is only available at Whole Foods on the West Coast so far, but denizens of the rest of the country can find plenty of other healthy and eco-friendly options out there — if you know what to look for. Whether you're dairy-free, want to chug something low in fat but high in calcium, or want your cereal to be more sustainable, there's probably a milk for you at your local supermarket.

Grassmilk Reduced Fat 2 Percent From Organic Valley
Nutrition: 150 calories, 5 g fat, 8 g protein, 30 percent daily value of calcium
A more sustainable alternative to traditional milk.

Almond milk
Nutrition: 60 calories, 2.5 g fat, 1 g protein, 45 percent daily value of calcium
Low in fat and calories, creamy and delicious. Watch out for added sweeteners.

Soy milk
Nutrition: 90 calories, 3.5 g fat, 6 g protein, 45 percent daily value of calcium
Look for soy milk made with non-GMO soybeans.

Rice milk
Nutrition: 120 calories, 2.5 g fat, 1 g protein, 30 percent daily value of calcium
It's thinner than the other milks but is great in cereal and coffee.

Coconut milk (beverage)
Nutrition: 80 calories, 5 g fat, 1 g protein, 10 percent daily value of calcium, 50 percent daily value of vitamin B12
It's higher in fat, but creamy and delicious in a glass. Look for organic brands.

— Nancy Ryerson, HellaWella

 

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