Grocery & Gourmet

The Best Milk Substitutes

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Navigating the world of milk alternatives can be overwhelming, with options ranging from nuts and seeds to grains and legumes. The right choice depends on your dietary needs, taste preferences, and intended culinary use. Making an informed decision ensures you get the most nutritional benefit and best flavor for your everyday needs.

No. 1
365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Almondmilk Unsweetened, 64 fl oz
  • Brought to you by Whole Foods Market
  • Excellent source of vitamin D
  • Good source of calcium
  • USDA organic
No. 2
Califia Farms - Organic Unsweetened Almond Milk, 48 Oz, Dairy Free, Keto, Vegan, Plant Based, Organic Milk...
  • NO OILS, NO GUMS: Califia Organic Almondmilk is made with just three simple ingredients without the need for oils or gums. Just shake it up and enjoy!
  • CERTIFIED USDA ORGANIC: Califia Organic Almondmilk is USDA certified organic with zero additives. No dairy, oil, gums, gluten, soy, and carrageenan. It’s everything you want in dairy-free almond milk and nothing you don’t.
  • THREE SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: Purified water, organic almonds, and sea salt. This is plant-based dairy-free goodness in its purest form. No oils and no gums. It’s deliciously simple.
  • PLANT-BASED: Califia Farms products are made with plant-based ingredients to acheive irresistible goodness in every way––taste, versatility, and all the benefits of being dairy-free.
  • DON'T FORGET TO SHAKE: Settling is natural in high-quality plant-based milks so remember to shake well!
No. 3
Amazon Grocery, Vanilla Unsweetened Almond Milk, 64 fl oz (Previously Amazon Fresh, Packaging May Vary)
  • One half gallon of Vanilla Unsweetened Almond Milk
  • Some of your favorite Amazon Fresh products are now part of the Amazon Grocery brand! Although packaging may vary during the transition, the ingredients and product remain the same. Thank you for your continued trust in our brands.
  • Contains 50% more calcium than dairy milk
  • No GMOs. No dairy
  • Contains: Almonds
  • Good source of Vitamins A & D. Excellent source of Vitamin E
  • Free of Cholesterol, Gluten, Soy, Casein, Egg, Carrageenan
  • Amazon Grocery has all the favorites you love for less. You’ll find everything you need for great-tasting meals in one shopping trip
  • Feed your every day with Amazon Grocery
No. 4
Pacific Foods Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk, Plant Based Milk, 32 oz Carton
  • One (1) 32 oz carton of Pacific Foods Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk
  • A deliciously creamy plant based milk alternative made with organic coconuts
  • Drink this lactose free milk substitute by the glass, blend it in smoothies, swap it for dairy milk in baking, or use it to enhance soups and curries
  • Gluten free, vegan milk alternative that’s USDA Certified Organic and made with non-GMO ingredients
  • A good source of Vitamin D and a natural source of medium chain fatty acids per serving
No. 5
Swiss Miss Nonfat Dry Milk, Fortified with Vitamins A & D, 12.98 oz. Canister
  • Enjoy delicious powdered milk fortified with vitamins A and D that is an excellent source of calcium, contains no fat, 80 calories and 8 grams of protein per serving
  • Great for use in coffee, baking, cereal and more
  • Make sure your Survival food supply is complete with this versatile powdered milk; Perfect for any emergency food stash
  • Stock up on this pantry staple for all of your shelf stable milk needs
  • Contains one 12.98-Ounce canister of Swiss Miss nonfat dry milk with vitamins A and D
SaleNo. 6
Planet Oat Original Oatmilk, 52 fl oz
  • Free From: Dairy, Lactose, Gluten, Soy, Peanuts, & Tree Nuts
  • Subtly sweet and full-bodied
  • Just as delicious in coffee, cereal, and smoothies as it is by-the-glass
  • An Excellent Source of Calcium and Vitamins A & D
  • Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
No. 7
Blue Diamond, Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk, 64 Fl Oz
  • Made with the goodness of real Blue Diamond almonds
  • Delicious by the glass, in smoothies, and in your favorite recipes
  • 30 calories per serving
  • No added sugar
No. 8
Amazon Grocery, Original Unsweetened Almond Milk, 64 Fl Oz
  • One 64-fluid-ounce carton of Original Unsweetened Almond Milk
  • Ultra-pasteurized for extended shelf life when unopened
  • Made with real almonds and filtered water
  • Amazon Grocery has all the favorites you love for less. You’ll find everything you need for great-tasting meals in one shopping trip
  • Feed your every day with Amazon Grocery
No. 9
Silk, Organic Milk Substitute, Soy, Unsweetened, 64 Fl Oz
  • Silk Organic Unsweetened Soy Milk, Natural, Vegan, 64 Fluid Ounces (Pack Of 6)
No. 10
Oatly Original Oat Milk, 64 oz
  • Use it just like cow's milk.
  • So creamy, so plant-based!
  • 100% cool for vegans.
  • Pour it in your coffee & on your cereal.
  • Cook and bake with it!
  • No dairy, no nuts, no gluten, no way!

Last update on 2026-07-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Milk Substitutes

Key Factors for Choosing Your Milk Substitute

When selecting a milk substitute, consider the following:
  • Nutritional Profile: Different alternatives offer varying levels of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients. Some are fortified to mimic dairy milk, while others are naturally rich in specific vitamins or minerals. Check the nutrition labels to ensure the product aligns with your dietary requirements, especially if you're looking for a specific nutrient like calcium or protein.
  • Taste and Texture: The flavor and consistency of milk substitutes vary significantly. Nut-based milks (almond, cashew) tend to be lighter and slightly sweet, while oat milk is often creamier. Soy milk offers a neutral taste, and coconut milk has a distinct tropical flavor. Consider how you plan to use the substitute – for drinking, in coffee, baking, or cooking – as some perform better in certain applications than others.
  • Ingredients and Allergens: Always review the ingredient list for sweeteners, thickeners, and potential allergens. Many milk substitutes are suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. However, be mindful of nuts, soy, gluten, or other common allergens if you or your household members have sensitivities. Opt for unsweetened varieties if you want to control sugar intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are milk substitutes suitable for baking?
Yes, many milk substitutes work well in baking. Creamier options like oat or soy milk often yield the best results, providing moisture and richness similar to dairy milk. For recipes where a neutral flavor is key, almond or rice milk can be good choices.
How should I store opened milk substitutes?
Once opened, most milk substitutes should be refrigerated and consumed within a specific timeframe, usually 5-7 days. Always check the product packaging for the manufacturer's recommendations on storage and shelf life after opening.
Can I use milk substitutes in coffee?
Absolutely. Many people use milk substitutes in their coffee. Creamier varieties like oat, soy, or cashew milk tend to froth well and blend smoothly, while lighter options like almond milk can sometimes separate in hot beverages.
What is the best milk substitute for someone with a nut allergy?
For individuals with nut allergies, soy, oat, rice, or coconut milk are generally safe alternatives. Always double-check the product label to ensure there are no cross-contamination warnings or hidden nut ingredients.