Wait a minute. This should be elaborated upon.
While cow's milk is a staple foodstuff of many cuisines and cultures, it is also an item that many people choose not to consume. Some reasons not to consume cow's milk are:
1. Lactose intolerance or allergy to casein.
2. Veganism or just general revulsion to what is essentially sucking on a cow's tit.
3. That chalky taste
4. The saturated fat content1
5. Chemicals present in milk have been shown to inhibit calcium absorption.
6. In general, cows are pumped full of hormones and antibiotics.2
Fortunately, for those of us who do choose not to consume cow’s milk, there are substitutes to take care of our cereal / baking / drinking / smoothie making needs. However, not all substitutes are created equal, and vary in their taste and nutritional content. Available milk substitutes include:
- Rice Milk:
Has a smooth, light flavor, and a somewhat thin consistency that is reminiscent of skim milk. Contains hardly any fat. Unfortunately, it contains hardly any protein either. Generally available in plain and vanilla flavors. Generally widely available.
- Almond Milk or other Nut Milk:
Wonderful, light nutty flavor and very smooth texture. Good in desert and smoothie recepies. Not very much protein, however, and nut allergies are fairly common. Often not availible fortified with calcium. Mostly available in health food stores.
- Coconut Milk:
Extremely rich and very tasty, but very high in saturated fat. Low in protein. Generally too rich for cereal, but good in desert recepies. Available in Asian markets, and many supermarkets.
- Goat Milk:
Does not contain caesin. Otherwise, none of the above problems are solved.
which brings us to that miracle uber-food of the gods…
- Soy Milk!
Moderately rich, like 2% milk, and very close in texture. Very tasty, and generally available in plain, vanilla, chocolate, chai, and other flavors.. High in complete protein, low in saturated fat. Widely available.
1not a problem with skim milk, obviously
2not a problem with
organic cow’s milk products