Dairy-free options. Yes, please! That’s what many people want when they are lactose intolerant or want wholesome options. While exploring several options, plant-based food tops the list. In the category, almond milk secures its place and is loved by almost everyone.
The byproduct, almond milk yogurt, is gaining popularity like never before. But, consumers still wonder if almond milk yogurt contains algae.
Well, the answer to this is YES. Some brands add algae-based ingredients to the yogurt. It is primarily added to improve the consistency and nutritional value. While it benefits the texture, it might become a problem for some people.
This blog is all about almond milk yogurt, algae-based ingredients used, whether they are safe to consume, and more. The topic doesn’t end here. There is more to almond milk yogurt and its properties. Whatever your preferences are, the blog guides you with everything.
What Is Almond Milk Yogurt?
If you are tired of having regular yogurt and want to explore healthy options, Almond milk yogurt is the one. People who are lactose intolerant and want a nutritious alternative usually stick to this.
Almond milk yogurt is made by fermenting almond milk. The texture is smooth, buttery, and has a hint of tanginess. While it feels identical to the normal yogurt, the flavors and mix are quite different. People who are addicted to vegan meals and want dairy-free options consume almond milk yogurt.
How to Make Almond Milk Yogurt?
As mentioned above, the process is almost the same, but it takes a U-turn when the thickeners and algae-based ingredients are added. So, here’s a step-by-step process to make almond milk yogurt.
- Almond Milk Preparation
- It all starts with preparing almond milk.
- Fine almonds are combined with water to procure milk, which is 100% dairy-free.
- Heating
- Specialists heat almond milk at a balanced temperature.
- This step is important to eliminate bacteria in the milk.
- It also smoothens milk texture.
- Fermentation
- The next step is milk fermentation using probiotics.
- This process uses Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus as live cultures for fermentation.
- It naturally picks up a tangy flavour in the yogurt.
- Stabilization
- In this process, thickening agents are added to the yogurt.
- It helps to form a rich consistency.
- The common natural thickeners added to almond milk yogurt are tapioca starch, agar agar, and carrageenan.
- Flavouring
- Many brands add unique flavours to enhance the taste of yogurt.
- The common ones are fruit pulp, sweeteners, vitamins, and minerals.
Top Ingredients used in Almond Milk Yogurt
It depends on the brands. But here are some key ingredients that remain the same in all yogurt.
- Almond milk
- It is made with a preferred quantity of almonds and water.
- Probiotics
- The live cultures of biotics are added to yoghurt. It improves digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
- Stabilizers
- Thickeners are common ingredients added to almond milk yogurt. However, some brands avoid it, and some add it.
- Sweeteners
- A handful of sweeteners are also added for flavour.
- Additional Ingredients
- Other ingredients, including vitamins and calcium, are also added.
Benefits of Almond Milk Yogurt
If you’re still doubtful about almond milk yogurt and its qualities, then here’s everything you need to know. Choosing almond milk yogurt over regular yogurt has incredible health benefits. Discover them here.
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- Almond milk is the best alternative to dairy yogurt.
- It is 100% vegan and contains probiotics.
- It is lighter than regular yogurt and improves digestion and gut health.
- Almond milk is low in calories and has a saturated fat content.
- It is very delicious and can be added to smoothies or fruit mix.
An informed consumer always reads the label before buying. The same goes for healthy products. While almond milk is highly nutritious, some ingredients might be disturbing for a rare group of people. So, make an informed choice and dig into the ingredients.
A Closer Look At Algae-Based Ingredients in Almond Milk Yogurt
Almond milk yogurt contains algae-based ingredients for different reasons. It improves texture, maintains the shelf life, and balances consistency. These ingredients help to form a creamy and thick almond milk yogurt. Here is more about the additives, their purpose, and safety guidelines
Almond Milk Yogurt with Agar Agar
Agar Agar is used as an alternative to gelatin. Known for its stable properties, it is mainly used in Asian cuisines and almond milk yogurt. It is derived from red algae and is used in making plant paste products.
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Benefits
- Agar agar improves digestion and has soluble fiber for gut health.
- As per scientific studies, it does not lead to inflammation or digestive issues.
Properties in Almond Milk
- Agar agar works as a gelling agent to create a smooth consistency.
- It is an ideal vegan substitute for gelatin.
- Agar agar isn’t your regular thickening agent. It is stable at high temperatures.
Safety Information
- As per safety standards, agar agar is a safe option for yogurt.
- It is added to gluten-free and vegan products and has minimal to no side effects.
- However, if consumed in excess quantity, it can lead to health issues.
Almond Milk Yogurt with Carrageenan
Carrageenan is another stabilizer added to almond milk yogurt extracted from polysaccharides. It naturally thickens the texture and is used for several years in the food industry. Here are the safety measures and properties.
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Properties in Almond Milk
- Carrageenan offers a creamy and rich consistency to almond milk yogurt.
- It keeps the ingredients in place and maintains a uniform texture to avoid separation.
- It extends the shelf life of the yogurt and prevents a lumpy texture.
Safety Information
- As per safety measures, Carrageenan is approved by the FDA and is considered safe for consumption.
- When used in limited quantities, Carrageenan doesn’t cause any side effects.
- Studies have found that using low-grade Carrageenan can lead to inflammatory effects in the body.
- It can also trigger intestinal inflammation and discomfort.
Why is it Important to Use Algae-Based Ingredients?
Almond milk is naturally derived from almonds and water. Since it does not contain any sort of protein or natural fat, it lacks thickness and creaminess. That’s where algae-based ingredients come into the picture. Here are some of the benefits of using thickeners in almond milk yogurt.
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- It is a vegan option and generally safe to use.
- It improves the texture of the yogurt and makes it thick and creamy.
- Algae-based ingredients also prevent the separation of the yogurt.
- It is ideal for people who avoid dairy and gluten products.
Takeaway
Almond milk is the best choice for people who avoid dairy. Yes, it contains algae-based ingredients for a smooth texture. But that doesn’t make it less tasty. The texture improves, and is considered a safe alternative for animal-based thickeners.
Whatever your preferences or health concerns are, make an informed decision by reading labels. If you are allergic to algae, then look for other yogurt choices. Look for thickeners like guar gum and tapioca starch. Both of them are considered safer alternatives.
FAQ’s
What are the ingredients in almond milk yogurt?
Almond milk yogurt has several ingredients. It also uses thickening agents like agar agar and carrageenan. Additionally, it also contains flavor sweeteners and almond milk.
Does almond milk yogurt have good bacteria?
Yes, almond milk yogurt has good bacteria. It builds in during the fermentation process.
Is almond milk yogurt good for weight loss?
Yes, almond milk yogurt is the best choice for weight loss. It is better than dairy products because of its low calorie and sugar content.
Is agar agar better than carrageenan?
As per safety standards, agar-agar is a better choice compared to carrageenan. It is naturally safe and does not cause digestive concerns.
How can I check if almond milk yogurt has algae?
The best way to find out if almond milk yogurt contains algae is to read the ingredient list. Carefully read the labels and check for terms like red algae extract, agar agar, and carrageenan. If you find any of these, it means the yogurt contains algae.
