Food

Almond Milk Demand is Rising But is it Healthier than Regular Milk?

Almond Milk vs Regular Milk – Milk, whether it is vegan or dairy, should be a regular part of your diet since it is full of important nutrients.

When taking into account a person’s diet, nutritional requirements, and taste preferences, among other things, each type of milk has advantages and drawbacks.

Additionally, there are several alternatives available now, including whole milk, skim (fat-free), and even lactose-free milk.

You can select milk based on your dietary preferences or allergy concerns. However, with the rise of plant-based diets and lactose intolerance, almond milk has emerged as a popular alternative to regular milk.

However, the question of whether almond milk is better than regular milk remains a subject of debate.

This article will provide a comprehensive comparison of regular milk and almond milk to help you make an informed decision on which milk is the best for you.

What Is Whole Milk?

Cow’s milk that has not been nutritionally modified in any way is called whole milk. The milk is taken from the cow nutritionally intact and is subject to food-safe processing.

Whole milk is completely safe if consumed within the shelf life specified by the milk producer, as it is not considered raw milk due to food safety procedures such as pasteurization.

The amount of fat and other nutritional indicators are not changed in whole milk, so nothing is removed, and the milk is not enriched with additional nutrients.

Although on a steady decline for the past decades, cow milk consumption has seen evident growth in 2022.

It is a common practice among milk producers to fortify milk by adding vitamins and minerals. Whole milk is sometimes referred to as fresh or regular milk in food retailing.

Whole milk usually contains a higher fat content and all the components of cow’s milk in terms of taste and nutritional value.

Because cow’s milk is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and other vitamins and minerals, it is the recommended type of milk.

It also probably has the richest and creamiest taste compared to other types of milk.

What Is Almond Milk?

Almond milk is lactose-free, vegan, low in calories, and saturated fat-free. Almonds and water are blended together; then, the remaining solids are strained out to create this sort of milk.

According to its nutrient profile, 1 cup (224 g) of unsweetened almond milk has 40 calories, 2.3 grams of fat, 0 grams of sugar, and just 1 gram of protein. Although it is typically fortified, it does not naturally contain calcium.

In addition, it has beneficial monounsaturated fats (MUFAs), fiber, and vitamin E. Speaking about its flaws, a lot of companies have flavor and sweetened milk.

It has a low protein content and could include carrageenan, which can cause digestive problems. Additionally, it costs more than cow’s milk.

Almond Milk Vs Whole Milk | Comparing Various Factors

Weight Loss

Almond milk has fewer calories than cow’s milk which makes it a great weight-loss option for

individuals who are lactose intolerant or vegan, worried about losing weight or cutting calories. Almond milk is a rich source of naturally occurring carbohydrates, good fats, and protein, because it is mostly composed of water.

Alternatively, as long as cow’s milk calorie intake is controlled and their consumption contributes to a calorie deficit, whole milk can help achieve a weight reduction goal.

Cow’s milk, especially the higher-fat varieties, may be a more effective strategy to increase calorie consumption for people seeking to gain weight.

Allergies And Intolerances

Regular milk can cause allergies in some individuals due to lactose intolerance or cow’s milk protein allergy.

Lactose intolerance occurs when the body is unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk, which results in symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

On the other hand, cow’s milk protein allergy occurs when the body reacts to one or more proteins found in cow’s milk.

This type of allergy can cause symptoms such as skin rashes, vomiting, and breathing difficulties.

To overcome this issue, many people opt for nut-based milk or plant-based milk as an alternative.

However, it is important to note that some individuals may also be intolerant to tree nuts, and those with an almond allergy may experience symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing after consuming almond milk.

Also, there is a common misconception that almond milk could cause constipation. But, as VegansFirst reports, this is not entirely true.

This happens because of the added ingredients in store-bought almond milk, such as carrageenan, which can lead to bloating and digestive discomfort.

Both regular milk and almond milk can cause allergies and intolerances in some individuals; it’s important to make choices depending on your needs and health.

Vitamins And Minerals

Numerous vitamins and minerals may be found in abundance in cow’s milk. Vitamins A, B12, B6, riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, pantothenic acid, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and selenium are all present in significant amounts in a 1-cup serving of 2% milk.

Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K are less abundant in 1% and 0% milk due to the loss of fat; these vitamins are frequently supplemented.

Almond milk, on the other hand, mostly consists of water and has very little in the way of vitamins and minerals. The majority of almond milk products are fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin A.

Almond Milk Vs Whole Milk | Nutrition Comparison

Nutrition Comparison per 240ml

	Cow’s milk (whole)	Cow’s milk (skim)	Almond milk (unsweetened)
Calories	150 kcal	80 kcal	40 kcal
Carbohydrates	12 g	12 g	1 g
Sugars	12 g	12 g	0 g
Fat	8 g	0 g	3 g
Protein	8 g	8 g	2 g
Calcium %DV	275mg 33%DV	300mg 50%DV	66mg 20%DV
Taste	Bland slightly sweet	Bland slightly sweet	Nutty

Is Almond Milk Healthier Than Regular Milk?

Almond milk is appropriate for vegans and anyone who avoids dairy products because it is entirely plant-based. It is also appropriate for those who are allergic to dairy.

It is not suited as a complete replacement for dairy in young children due to its low protein content. Those with chronic renal disease frequently avoid regular milk due to its high potassium and phosphorus content.

Almond milk, which has significantly fewer of these nutrients, could be a good substitute. Soy milk is naturally low in saturated fat and devoid of cholesterol.

It is also lactose-free. Since soymilk raises estrogen levels, it should be avoided by thyroid sufferers. Ultimately, the choice between almond and regular milk depends on individual dietary needs and personal preferences.

Final Thoughts

Almond milk and regular milk both have advantages and disadvantages. Almond milk is fantastic for people who want to consume fewer calories and follow a vegan diet, but conventional milk is superior for helping young infants develop strong bones.

Almond milk is a water-based, fortified alternative for people who cannot consume dairy products, whereas cow’s milk offers a naturally occurring source of carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

In conclusion, both almond milk and regular milk have their own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.

Eventually, the choice between almond and regular milk entirely depends on an individual’s personal dietary needs and preferences.

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Food

America’s French Fry King Sounds An Alarm

Americans are revolting against McDonald’s and other fast-food establishments. This is harming French fry suppliers like Lamb Weston.

Lamb Weston, North America’s largest manufacturer of french fries and a significant supplier to fast-food chains, restaurants, and grocery stores, is closing a production facility in Washington state. Last week, the company stated that it would lay off almost 400 employees, or 4% of its workforce, and temporarily shut down manufacturing lines in response to falling customer demand.

Lamb Weston (LW) shares have plummeted 35% this year.

America’s French Fry King Sounds An Alarm

The potato giant is oversupplied at a time when demand is low. In recent years, restaurant prices have risen faster than grocery store prices, prompting shoppers to avoid fast-food establishments.

This move has had an impact on Lamb Weston because individuals are less inclined to prepare French fries at home. According to Lamb Weston, fast-food restaurants account for around 80% of all french fries consumed in the United States.

Fast-food restaurants, such as McDonald’s, are offering bargain menus to entice customers back. McDonald’s has introduced a $5 meal that contains a McDouble cheeseburger or a McChicken sandwich, small french fries, four chicken nuggets, and a small soft drink. However, these promotions are not benefiting Lamb Weston because customers are purchasing fewer portions of fries.

“Many of these promotional meal deals have consumers trading down from a medium fry to a small fry,” Lamb Weston CEO Thomas Werner stated during an earnings call last week.

Lamb Weston did not immediately reply to CNN’s request for comment.

McDonald’s, Lamb Weston’s largest customer, accounts for 13% of revenue. As McDonald’s goes, so does Lamb Weston.

America’s French Fry King Sounds An Alarm

And McDonald’s is struggling. Sales at US restaurants open at least a year declined 0.7% last quarter compared to the same period a year ago, dragged down by fewer consumers visiting the brand.

Lamb Weston is also heavily exposed to other fast-food companies, according to analyst R.J. Hottovy of analytics firm Placer.ai, in a research note to clients last week.

Customer traffic to fast-food restaurants fell 2% last quarter and 3% the prior quarter compared to the same period last year, according to Lamb Weston.

SOURCE | CNN

Food

Logan Paul And MrBeast Have A Lunchables Competitor That They Say Is Healthy

YouTube’s top stars have launched their competitor to Lunchables.

MrBeast, Logan Paul, and KSI are collaborating on a “groundbreaking new better-for-you lunch option” called Lunchly, combining all their goods into a single meal geared at their younger fans.

The all-in-one meal includes a bottle of Prime Hydration, a sports drink alternative founded by Paul and KSI that has grown in popularity; a Feastables milk chocolate bar created by MrBeast, a popular YouTube star with over 300 million subscribers; and one of three processed food options, including pizza, nachos, or turkey aand cheese with crackers.

Logan Paul And MrBeast Have A Lunchables Competitor That They Say Is Healthy

“Our ultimate goal has always been to offer not only high-quality products, but also healthier alternatives,” Lunchly cofounder Logan Paul stated in a press release. He also stated that the school lunch industry has been “dominated by Lunchables” since he was a child, and that it is “time to provide a better option for those looking for a convenient, healthier choice.”

Lunchly promises to be “healthier” since Prime contains more electrolytes than a Capri Sun in Lunchables, and Mr. Beast’s chocolate bar contains less sugar than a Kit Kat or Crunch bar.

Lunchly’s launch comes after Lunchable, owned by Kraft Heinz, announced a huge initiative last year to participate in school lunch programs. However, the company had to reformulate the components first to guarantee that the items met regulatory rules, which included incorporating fresh fruit into their meals.

Consumer Reports reported in 2024 that it recently studied the nutritional profiles of two Lunchables kits supplied in schools and discovered that they contain significantly more sodium than the Lunchables kits available in stores.

Logan Paul And MrBeast Have A Lunchables Competitor That They Say Is Healthy

Of course, KSI, Paul, and MrBeast know how to create brands, thanks partly to their devoted following. Despite government worries about the caffeine content of some of its drinks, Prime sales have risen, threatening industry leaders such as Gatorade and BodyArmor.

“Prime brings a youthful buying cohort that hasn’t had a lot pitched their way beyond traditional kids’ drinks,” Jeffrey Klineman, editor-in-chief of BevNet, previously told CNN. “Paul is significantly more intriguing to a 13-year-old than a juice box.”

SOURCE | CNN

Food

Beyond Soups and Stews: Unexpected Ways to Utilize Your 5 Litre Pressure Cooker

Pressure cookers are very popular cooking utensils for preparing soups, stews, and tenderising meats in quick time. However, their versatility and uses go far beyond these traditional uses.

If you’re trying to use your 5 litre pressure cooker differently, you are at the right place, as we are going to explore unexpected and creative ways to use this essential kitchen utensil.

Infused oils and extract

You can use your pressure cooker to prepare infused oils and extracts. To do that, you have to put the herbs, spices, or citrus peels in a jar filled with oil or alcohol. Then, seal the jar and cook under low pressure for a short time to infuse the flavours uniformly.

By this method, you can extract intense flavours in a quick time as compared to what it takes through traditional infusion methods. You can also experiment with combinations like rosemary-infused olive oil or vanilla extract for baking.

Artisanal Curd Making

You can use your pressure cooker to prepare yoghurt. To do that you have to heat the milk to a proper and specific temperature, and then cool it down before adding yoghurt culture. After that, keep the mixture in jars, seal, and ferment in the pressure cooker with the use of the yoghurt setting. And yes, after that, you will have creamy, homemade yoghurt at a much lower cost than store-bought varieties. You can add up your yoghurt, various flavours and toppings for a healthy breakfast or snack option.

Quick pickling

You can also prepare quick pickles using your pressure cooker. For doing that combine the ingredients such as vinegar, water, salt, and your choice of vegetables or fruits in the cooker.

Now, after that, cook under pressure for a few minutes to infuse the flavours rapidly.

Once it is done and cooled, your quick pickles will be ready to eat and enjoy, giving a taste of tangy flavour to sandwiches, salads, or charcuterie boards. You can do this using different spices and herbs to prepare unique flavour profiles for your pickles.

Steaming vegetables and seafood

You can use your pressure cooker’s steaming capabilities to cook vegetables and seafood very easily and quickly. To do that, you have to place a steamer basket inside the cooker, add water, and put your ingredients.

Then, after that, cook under pressure for a few minutes to keep the nutrients intact and also get the perfect tenderness. From crisp-tender asparagus to succulent shrimp, the possibilities of preparing the dishes are many. You can add different flavours using aromatic herbs, spices, and citrus zest.

Homemade bread and desserts

You can amaze your family with freshly baked bread and delicious desserts that can easily be prepared in your pressure cooker. To do that, use the cooker as a makeshift oven by placing a trivet inside and also adding water to it.

After that, you have to place your bread dough or dessert batter in a heat-proof container, cover it, and then cook under low pressure. In very little time, you will get tender bread or delicious desserts without even messing up the kitchen. You can also try various other recipes like chocolate lava cake or savoury herb bread for a delightful treat.

One-pot pasta dishes

You can easily prepare one-pot pasta dishes that are cooked perfectly in your pressure cooker. To do that you have to combine pasta, sauce, vegetables, and protein in the cooker, and also remember to check and put enough liquid for cooking. Then, seal and cook under pressure for a few minutes. This will allow the flavours to get mixed beautifully.

And with this, from classic spaghetti marinara to creamy Alfredo, your pressure cooker can do it all. You can enhance your pasta with your favourite ingredients and garnishes.

Conclusion on a pressure cooker

Cooking indeed is a creative method. Do justice to your creative culinary spirit with your 5-litre pressure cooker. Bake bread, make homemade yoghurt, and make several main dishes as well as side dishes using a wide pressure cooker.

Impress everyone and yourself! Make the best out of your culinary instincts.

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