The other day I bought cheese that said: “made with A2 milk!”. Of course, I had to do some digging to find out what A2 milk is. This got me wondering how it compares to one of my favorite plant-based milks – almond milk.
So, here’s everything I found out, including my final verdict at the end!
Comparing A2 milk vs almond milk
| A2 milk | Almond milk | |
| Type | Animal-based | Plant-based (nut milk) |
| Common allergens | Milk | Tree nuts |
| Vegan? | No | Yes |
| Paleo? | No | Yes |
| Keto? | No | Yes |
Differences between A2 milk and almond milk
First things first, A2 milk is not your typical milk from cows that you find at the store. Instead of containing both A1 and A2 proteins, it only has the A2 protein.
Some believe that A2 milk is easier on the stomach and better tolerated by some individuals, as it lacks the A1 protein, which can cause digestive issues for certain people.
However, if you have a cow milk allergy, A2 milk might not be the best option for you, as it still contains lactose, which could trigger an allergic reaction.
A2 milk has a taste quite similar to regular cow’s milk, making it an easy substitute in most recipes that call for milk. It also comes in various varieties just like regular milk. You can find whole, 2%, chocolate, and other options!
On the other hand, almond milk is a plant-based milk made from almonds, and it’s an excellent choice for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies. Of course, it’s not safe for those with tree nut allergies.
Almond milk comes in sweetened, unsweetened, and flavored (chocolate, vanilla) varieties. Here are the top almond milk brands in America!
How to use A2 milk vs almond milk
How to use A2 milk:
- Substitute for regular milk in recipes
- Enjoy as a refreshing drink
- Make lattes or cappuccinos
- For breakfast cereals
- Make cheese and yogurt
- Creamy soups, sauces, and dressings
How to use almond milk:
- Substitute in baking recipes
- Enjoy in coffee or tea
- Pour over cereal or granola
- Use in smoothies and shakes
- Vegan ice cream
Can you substitute A2 milk with almond milk (and vice versa)?
In my experience, you can substitute A2 milk and almond milk with each other in most recipes, except the process for making dairy-free yogurt and cheese is slightly different.
Also remember that almond milk, being plant-based, has a nutty taste and a thinner consistency. So, expect a different flavor and texture when substituting it for A2 milk.
Nutrition: A2 milk vs almond milk
A2 milk is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients found in regular cow’s milk.
Almond milk is typically fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and sometimes vitamin B12. It’s much lower in calories than A2 milk and also has less carbs and sugar (0 grams), making it more keto-friendly and lower on the glycemic index scale.
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts for 1 cup of A2 milk vs almond milk:
| Per cup (237 ml/8 oz.) | Calories | Total fat (sat. fat) | Total carbs | Total sugars (incl. added) | Protein | Calcium | Vit D |
| A2 milk (2%) | 120 | 5 g (3 g) | 12 g | 12 g (0 g) | 8 g | 25% DV | 15% DV |
| Almond milk | 30 | 2.5 g (0 g) | 1 g | 0 g | 1 g | 45% DV | 25% DV |
How to store A2 milk and almond milk
For both A2 milk and almond milk, the best way to store them is in the refrigerator, maintaining a consistently cold temperature. Make sure to keep them away from the door to prevent temperature fluctuations when you open and close the fridge.
A2 milk usually has a similar shelf life to regular cow’s milk, which is around 5-7 days after opening. But, of course, always check the expiration date on the carton to be safe.
On the other hand, almond milk typically has a slightly longer shelf life, 7-10 days after opening. Just like with A2 milk, check the expiration date to know how long you have until it goes bad.
A2 milk vs almond milk: The ultimate verdict
So, which one should you choose? It all comes down to individual needs and tastes. If you’re looking for a milk alternative that closely resembles the taste of regular cow’s milk and might be easier on your digestion, give A2 milk a try. On the other hand, if you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply want a lower-calorie option, almond milk is a fantastic choice. Personally, I prefer almond milk for its light, nutty taste, and find it works well in various dairy-free recipes!
FAQs:
Well, it depends on your specific digestive system and health needs. Some people find it easier to digest due to the absence of the A1 protein, while others might not notice a significant difference. Give it a try and see how it makes you feel!
Again, it comes down to your personal preferences and dietary requirements. 2% milk offers a complete protein source and essential nutrients like calcium, while almond milk is lower in calories and naturally lactose-free. If you’re aiming to reduce calorie intake or avoid dairy, almond milk might be the healthier choice for you.
The primary disadvantage of A2 milk is that it’s not suitable for individuals with cow milk allergies, as it still contains lactose. Additionally, its availability might be limited compared to regular cow’s milk or even almond milk, depending on where you live.
Leave a Comment