Fun & Facts
Oat milk: How good is this plant milk really?
von Isabelle Diekmann15.09.2023
In recent years, the variety of milk alternatives has expanded greatly, and one of the most popular options is oat milk - which, by the way, is not officially allowed to be called "milk". This term is only permitted in the product context for animal products, but has now become firmly established in our general language. Whether oat milk or oat drink: the plant-based milk alternative is gaining popularity. And not just among vegans and people with lactose intolerance, but also among health and environmentally conscious consumers.
We at share also rely on our delicious oat drink, which you can find in stores at REWE & Co. The oat drink is even available online as a practical powder to mix. And as always: every oat drink from share donates one day of drinking water to people in need.
Oat milk: The benefits at a glance
In this article, we take a close look at the benefits of oat milk, compare it to traditional cow's milk, and highlight the pros and cons of both options.
Plant-based alternative
Oat milk is made from soaked oats and water, making it an ideal option for people who want to avoid milk from animal sources, whether for health, ethical or environmental reasons.
Better for the environment
Measured by carbon dioxide emissions and water consumption, cow's milk is by far the biggest polluter (source: Statista 2020 ). The production of oat milk generally causes a significantly lower carbon footprint and water consumption compared to cow's milk production.
Nutrients and vitamins
Oat milk typically contains fiber, particularly soluble fiber such as beta-glucans, which can help lower cholesterol. The level varies depending on how it is processed. Oat milk is also often fortified with vitamins (such as vitamin D and B vitamins), calcium, and sometimes other nutrients to provide similar nutritional value to cow's milk. And: Most oat milks have a lower fat content than whole milk. This can be beneficial for people who want to control their fat intake.
Lactose-free and allergy-friendly
Oat milk is naturally lactose-free, making it great for people who are lactose intolerant. It also contains no soy or nuts, making it an allergy-friendly option.
So, is oat milk healthy?
Oat milk undoubtedly has health benefits due to its nutrients. However, it is important to note that not all oat milks are the same. Some commercial varieties may contain additives such as sugar and thickeners that can affect its health value. So when buying oat milk, it is worth checking the ingredients on the labels.
The question of which milk is healthiest depends on individual dietary needs and preferences. Oat milk offers many benefits, especially for people who want to live lactose-free, have allergies, or want to be environmentally conscious. Cow's milk can be a great source of protein and calcium, but it is not suitable for everyone, especially those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.
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