Almond Vs Cashew Milk : Which One Is Better Almond Milk or Cashew Milk ?
Almond Vs Cashew milk, Which One Is Better for us ? Almond milk and cashew milk are two of many non-dairy milk alternatives. Almond milk has long been a popular choice, but you may be wondering if there is a better alternative available. Could cashew milk be the solution?
To help you make an informed decision between almond milk and cashew milk, I’ll compare these non-dairy milks based on their nutrition profiles, health advantages, sustainability, production ethics, and best culinary uses in this post!
Almond milk is a popular and versatile plant-based milk derived from almonds.
Almond milk is typically made by soaking raw almonds, blending them with water, and straining the solids.
The end result is a creamy, slightly nutty-flavored liquid that can be consumed as a dairy-free substitute for cow’s milk.
What Is Cashew Milk?
Cashew milk is a dairy-free, plant-based milk derived from cashews.
Raw cashews are soaked, blended with water, and strained to make cashew milk, which is smooth and creamy.
The resulting milk has a naturally sweet and mild flavor, as well as a velvety consistency that allows it to be used in a variety of recipes.
Almond Vs Cashew Milk : Environmental and Ethical Concerns
Because many people avoid dairy milk due to ethical and environmental concerns, the same questions may arise when selecting almond or cashew milk.
California produces the vast majority of the world’s almonds, which require an exorbitant amount of water. The production of one almond requires more than three gallons of water. Almonds are also a source of concern in the honey bee crisis because they pollinate almond trees, and the use of heavy pesticides can harm the honey bee population. Many providers may offer more ethical ways to make almond milk.
Cashews, on the other hand, have a reputation for labor issues and poor working conditions. The majority of store-bought cashews are exported from India and Vietnam, where workers are paid very little for dangerous cashew work. The toxins in cashew shells that are removed before sale can cause burns and other injuries to these workers. How do Beyond’s cashews differ from store-bought cashews, you ask? Beyond the Nut is able to provide raw cashews without raising ethical concerns because it focuses on empowering and involving local farmers in West Africa. All Beyond the Nut cashews are fair trade and ethically sourced, which reduces ethical concerns while also lowering the carbon footprint.
Almond Vs Cashew Milk Nutritions
Protein
Cashew and almond milks have comparable protein contents. Both are low-protein options, with 1-2 grams per cup (compared to 8 grams in a cup of cow milk).
Some varieties contain more protein than this, with up to 5 grams depending on the brand. Typically, these are the most expensive.
If you prefer a higher protein milk, neither option may be ideal for you.
Calories
The calorie content of almond and cashew milks is very similar.
Most brands of unsweetened almond milk have 30-40 calories per cup serving. Unsweetened cashew milk typically contains 25 calories per 1 cup serving.
Certain varieties, however, may contain more calories, which is most likely due to the nut to water ratio. The more nuts and less water, the higher the calorie count per serving.
Oils and sweeteners are also calorie-dense additives. If you want to avoid these things in your milk, be sure to check the ingredients.
Carbohydrates
Both milk options are considered low carb, with most containing less than 5 grams per cup.
This is because nuts do not contain a lot of carbs. If sugar is added to milk, the carbohydrate content increases.
Vitamins/Minerals
These milks can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially if they are enriched.
Fortification is simply the addition of nutrients to a product.
Almond milk can be high in Vitamin E, providing roughly 40% of your daily requirement in one cup.
Many are fortified with calcium and vitamin D to match the levels found in dairy milk. However, not all brands are the same. According to our findings, the more expensive brands have lower levels of calcium and vitamin D.
Fat
Most almond and cashew milks contain only 2-3 grams of fat per cup.
You may find ones with up to 10 grams per cup (depending on whether they contain more nuts or water).
Typically, higher-calorie milks contain more fat.
If you want something a little more creamy and less diluted, go with the higher fat versions.
Sugar
Nut milks do not contain sugar naturally, but some varieties may have sugar added to improve taste.
You can always look for ‘added sugars’ on the nutrition label to see if it has been sweetened. The ingredients lists will also include some sort of sweetener, which could be maple syrup or cane sugar.
If you want a low-sugar option, choose one that says ‘unsweetened’ on the front of the package.
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Almond Vs Cashew Milk : Texture & Taste Comparison
There are some notable taste and texture differences to consider, particularly when developing food or beverage products.
Cashew milk has a subtle flavor with a hint of sweetness. It is frequently described as having a rich, buttery flavor that can add a luxurious touch to dishes. Almond milk, on the other hand, has a milder and slightly nuttier flavor profile, providing a more natural flavor experience.
Cashew milk is known for its creamy texture. It can feel smooth and velvety in the mouth, making it a satisfying and indulgent product. This creaminess adds richness and depth to a variety of dishes and beverages. In contrast, almond milk has a lighter and less creamy texture than cashew milk.
It has a relatively smooth consistency that is refreshing and ideal for lighter applications.
The Pros of Almond Milk & Cashew Milk
Cashews contain a variety of minerals and micronutrients, including copper, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin E. Cashews, unlike some other tree nuts, have very low saturated fat and cholesterol content. Cashews are also high in iron, which is essential for red blood cell production and promotes brain function.
Almonds have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease by improving overall cholesterol ratio, lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, and maintaining HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Aside from reducing bad fats like trans fats, almonds contain a lot of good fats that aid in normal functions, such as fighting chronic diseases and slowing the aging process. Furthermore, they make an excellent snack that satisfies hunger without causing weight gain.
The Cons of Almond Milk & Cashew Milk
In contrast to their creamy flavor, cashews are naturally high in magnesium and monounsaturated fats. However, these are also the reasons why cashews are more difficult to break down and process than almonds. Although some may argue otherwise, “California’s best-kept secret” is a common saying in most almond-producing regions of California.
The main issue with cashews is that their skins contain a high level of pesticide residue due to their tendency to grow close together. Pesticide levels in cashews grown in Brazil may be up to nine times higher than those found in imported almonds. One study discovered that they contained 50% more cadmium than almonds and 40% more than raisins.
Almond Vs Cashew Milk : Main Differences Between Cashew Milk and Almond Milk
Cashew milk and almond milk are popular non-dairy nut milk alternatives.
Cashew milk is made from two simple ingredients: cashews and water. It has a creamy consistency and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
Similarly, almond milk is made from almonds and water. It is recognized for its mild, slightly nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Cashew milk and almond milk are popular choices for people who are lactose intolerant, follow a vegan or plant-based diet, or prefer a dairy-free milk alternative.
Almond Vs Cashew Milk: Which is Better for Weight Loss?
Because cashew milk and almond milk are low in fat and calories, they are both excellent options if you’re trying to lose weight. However, if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake, almond milk might be a better choice. Cashew milk contains 50 calories per cup compared to only 30 in almond milk. Almond milk should thus be your first choice for a dairy substitute if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps shield your cells from harm from free radicals, almond milk also has this benefit. Contrarily, cashew milk is an excellent source of copper, which is necessary for strong bones and connective tissues. For those who have a dairy allergy or are lactose intolerant, almond milk and cashew milk are both excellent options because they are both lactose-free.
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Almond Milk vs Cashew Milk: Which is Better for Your Stomach?
Almonds and cashews are the primary ingredients in almond milk and cashew milk. Compared to almonds, cashew nuts contain almost no dietary fiber. A healthy digestive system is supported by dietary fiber.
According to Monash University Fodmap, non-dairy milk has a low Fodmap, which means it is light on your stomach and does not leave you feeling bloated.
Can You Drink Cashew or Almond Milk if You have a Nut Allergy?
It is estimated that approximately 1% of the general population has a nut allergy, with approximately one in every 200 people affected in some populations, with peanut allergy being the most common type of food allergy globally.
If you have a nut allergy, you should avoid cashew and almond milk unless your physician approves.
Almond Vs Cashew : Which Milk Alternative Is Better?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which is healthier: almonds or cashews?
Answer : Although cashews and almonds are similar in many ways, they differ in others. Almonds are a more nutritious choice. They’re also cheaper than cashews, making them a better overall choice. If you are baking, use almonds because they are easier to blend.
Q2. Which nut milk is the healthiest?
Answer : Almond milk is frequently fortified with nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D to improve its nutritional value. These are nutrients that vegetarians and vegans may struggle to obtain in adequate amounts. Otherwise, almond milk has low calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fat.
Q4. Is it OK to drink cashew milk everyday?
Answer : Cashew milk is not toxic. In fact, it contains a variety of beneficial nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals that, when consumed, can improve overall health.
