The Cream of the Crop: But Without the Cream
By: Genevieve Deeken
The world of food alternatives within the culinary industry has never been more accessible…
Whether suffering from an allergy, digestive malabsorption, or simply seeking to explore the growing world of plants rather than animal-based products, dairy-free alternatives have become all the more accessible. A deficiency of the enzyme lactase causes about 68% of individuals to suffer from lactose intolerance, and experience many gastrointestinal symptoms following dairy consumption because of an inability to break down lactose ([NIDDK], 2018). As a result, many despair at the prospect of having to abandon traditional dairy products; while many of these alternatives on the market do not adequately replicate their desired other, this post provides an overview of excelling non-dairy alternatives within the culinary sphere.
Cheese may arguably epitomize the dairy industry, making it the most difficult item to recreate sans the use of animal milk. However, Violife has replicated feta cheese almost perfectly with their vegan feta alternative. Consider using this product on top of greek salads, with crackers, or even in recipes such as the viral Tik Tok feta pasta.
A feasible butter alternative is offered by Miyoko's Creamery. Though the taste of butter is not duplicated to the impressive degree of the aforementioned vegan feta, the texture proves similar and the components parallel in baking.
Perhaps one of the most impressive alternatives within the industry is Culina’s Coconut Yogurt. Culina provides a creamy, thick texture most similar to that of Greek yogurt and even includes essential probiotic nutrients found naturally in traditional dairy yogurt. Though not replicating the degree of protein that traditional dairy yogurts contain,, the botanical flavors of these yogurts along with their minimal, whole-sourced ingredient lists are exquisite and prove a delicious breakfast option.
For those seeking a non-dairy milk alternative for coffees, smoothies, or cooking, Califia Farms Unsweetened Almond Milk and Oat Barista Blend excel all expectations. While this almond milk alternative provides an innocuous flavor when incorporated into cooking or smoothies, the oat blend provides an exceptionally creamy alternative that froths well for lattes and other hot beverages.
Perhaps the most exciting dairy-free alternative is the land of dairy-free and vegan ice creams! There seems to be a new dairy-free ice cream option in stores each month and alternatives excel each year, though Nadamoo’s ice creams continue to prevail as the most impressive. They offer profuse flavors with sustainably-sourced ingredients, all of which are gluten-free and offer a texture most accurately replicating America’s favorite treat. Try the mint chip, cookies and cream, or vanilla flavors - three of Nadamoo’s most popular flavor options!
While many impressive dairy-free alternatives undeniably exist within the culinary industry, it is important to note that traditional dairy products provide a multitude of healthy nutrients, such as calcium, protein, magnesium, and potassium. The consumption of traditional dairy products is linked to stronger bone health and a decreased risk for diseases such as osteoporosis ((Rozenberg et al., 2015). However, there are certain associated benefits with dairy-free alternatives, such as a potential decrease in saturated fat consumption, and environmental benefits with mitigated greenhouse gas emissions (WWF, n.d.). It is imperative to consult with a physician before consuming an entirely dairy-free diet, and consider opting for Calcium supplements if this vital nutrient is not obtained through the traditional consumption of dairy.
Reference List:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Definition & Facts for lactose intolerance. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Retrieved January 10, 2022, from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/lactose-intolerance/definition-facts
Rozenberg, S., Body, J.-J., Bruyère, O., Bergmann, P., Brandi, M. L., Cooper, C., Devogelaer, J.-P., Gielen, E., Goemaere, S., Kaufman, J.-M., Rizzoli, R., & Reginster, J.-Y. (2016, January). Effects of dairy products consumption on health: Benefits and beliefs--a commentary from the Belgian Bone Club and the European Society for Clinical and economic aspects of osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal diseases. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved January 10, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4703621/
World Wildlife Fund. (n.d.). Dairy. WWF. Retrieved January 23, 2022, from https://www.worldwildlife.org/industries/dairy