Potato Milk vs Almond Milk: Which Is Better?

Every time you show up at the grocery store, you might be surprised to see how milk can take on so many forms, flavors, and ingredients. Potatoes, often associated with mashed potatoes and fries, are certainly not often the first thing that comes to mind when you think about milk alternatives. However, it’s quietly making its way into the world of non-dairy milk. 

On the contrary, almond milk is one of the original plant-based milk alternatives that is widely available at many coffee shops as a sub for cow milk. So, with its distinct reputation, how does potato milk matchup? Why would you go searching for it instead of almond milk? Find out in this article!

Comparing potato milk vs almond milk

	Potato milk	Almond milk
Type	Plant-based	Plant-based (nuts)
Allergens	None	Tree nuts
Vegan?	Yes	Yes
Paleo?	Possibly, if homemade with paleo-friendly ingredients	Yes
Keto?	No	Yes

Almond milk definitely has the upper hand for being universally suitable for paleo, vegan, and keto diets. The only issue is that it is unsuitable for those with tree nut allergies! On the other hand, potato milk is vegan and allergen-free but not keto-friendly. If you’re on a paleo diet, homemade potato milk or packaged varieties made with paleo-friendly ingredients can be an option worth exploring.

Differences between potato milk and almond milk

The core difference between potato milk and almond milk is their source, which is what makes their flavors and consistencies so varied. Almond milk is made by soaking almonds in water, then grinding them up and separating the liquid from the almond meal or pulp. It has a light, nutty undertone and a naturally thin consistency, which is why thickeners are typically used in commercial versions. Almond milk also comes in various options, including unsweetened and flavored versions like vanilla and chocolate.

Potato milk is made from potatoes blended with water. It has a much thicker and smoother consistency than almond milk, a more neutral flavor, and also boasts a more sustainable profile as potatoes require less water to grow compared to almond trees. It also tends to add a unique mouthfeel and, apparently, a slightly pancake-batter-like aftertaste. As of now, the first and main manufacturer of potato milk is the Swedish brand DUG. Their potato milks come in three versions: original, unsweetened, and a barista version.

How to use potato milk vs almond milk

Potato milk:

• Enhance the creaminess of mashed potatoes by subbing in potato milk for milk or cream.
• Make creamy soups like tomato bisque or potato leek.
• Use to bake muffins and cakes.
• Add to curries.
• Use as an ingredient in dairy-free dips and sauces.

Fun fact: The thickness and neutral flavor of potato milk make it ideal for both sweet and savory cooking. 

Almond milk:

• Use as a dairy-free creamer for coffee and tea.
• Pour over cereal or granola.
• Create light, dairy-free desserts like ice cream and pudding.
• Make a simple chia seed pudding.
• Add to pancake or waffle batter for a lighter, nuttier flavor.

Can you substitute potato milk for almond milk?

Potato milk has a mild and neutral flavor, so it can act as a suitable sub for almond milk in many recipes. The only consideration here would be that potato milk tends to be creamier than almond milk, so it can work well in recipes that require a heavier base. On the flip side, almond milk has a nuttier flavor, so swapping potato milk with almond milk could bring forth a lighter texture and more distinct flavor.

Nutrition: Potato milk vs almond milk

If we reference DUG brand potato milk, each product contains water, potatoes (4.5%), rapeseed oil, sucrose, and pea protein for an extra nutritional boost. According to some sources, the barista and unsweetened versions have higher fat contents and potato contents, much like whole milk. The original version has a 1.5% fat content and is similar to semi-skimmed milk in texture. 

Overall, potato milk is generally low in calories, surprisingly lower in carbs than dairy milk, but also lower in protein. But while it’s low in protein, it makes up for it with 30% DV of calcium and 30% of vitamin D.

Almond milk is even lower in calories, at just 30 calories per cup, and also low in protein but also very low in carbs. It is typically fortified to provide 45% of your DV of calcium and naturally contains a healthy amount of vitamin E, which is a vitamin that has a protective effect on the body.

Per 1 cup (237 ml/8 oz.)	Calories	Total fat (sat. fat)	Total carbs	Total sugars (incl. added)	Protein	Calcium	Vit D
Potato milk (~0.8 cup)	62	3 g (0.2 g)	6.2 g	5 g (?)	2.6 g	30% DV	30% DV
Almond milk	30	2.5 g (0 g)	1 g	0 g	1 g	45% DV	25% DV

? = reliable information not available (e.g. commercial versions not available, incomplete information, etc.)

How to store potato milk and almond milk

For potato milk, the DUG website says that it can be stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it’ll last around 5 days in the fridge. If you’re making your own potato milk, it’ll only last a short three days.

Almond milk is usually shelf stable before opening and will last around 1 – 2 months unopened in your pantry. Once opened, it should be stored in the fridge and will last around 7 – 10 days, sometimes longer, sometimes shorter – much shorter if you’re making your own almond milk.

Potato milk vs almond milk: Which is better?

It’s now time to crown the winner! The better option is ultimately what works for your culinary venture. While almond milk might have the fame, potato milk is gaining fans for its sustainability factor, versatile flavor, and robust texture. If you’re looking for a light, versatile, and low-calorie option, almond milk is ideal for baking, cereals, and smoothies for its gentle, nutty qualities. But when you’re seeking a silky, neutral canvas, potato works for savory dishes, creamy soups, or denser bakes.

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