Plant-based milk has become a popular alternative to traditional cow's milk, not only for those who prefer a vegan lifestyle, but also for those looking for a healthier alternative. Related to this trend is the question of whether plant-based milk is more cost-effective.
Is plant-based milk cheaper to produce?
Many people think that making plant-based milk at home can be a cheaper option than buying it ready-made from the store. So I decided to try making my own plant-based milk and compare the costs to the price of milk available in the store.
I've been drinking plant-based milks since before they became a trend. Having been allergic to milk since birth, I've had a hard time finding dairy-free alternatives in the past. The only option I had for my cereal was a specific type of soy milk that had a thick, slightly sweet gray consistency. But I didn't mind, since I didn't know of any other options.
The options for plant-based milks have expanded significantly compared to the past. This increase in popularity has also sparked debates, such as the recent EU decision to ban the labeling of such products as dairy.
Plant milk production process
To start, I chose a few types of seeds and nuts that are often used to make plant-based milk, such as almonds, hazelnuts, and soybeans. Surprisingly, I found that the price of these ingredients varies quite a bit depending on the region and season.
After purchasing the ingredients, I set about making plant-based milk at home. The process was relatively simple and involved soaking and blending the ingredients with water. The result was a creamy, smooth drink that was not only delicious, but also healthy.
After comparing the cost of ingredients and the time it takes, I came to the conclusion that while making plant-based milk at home can be a fun and healthy way to enjoy a plant-based beverage, it may not always be the cheaper option in terms of cost. In some cases, it may be worth buying ready-made plant-based milk from the store, especially if the ingredients are expensive or you don't have the time to make it.
Ultimately, I realized that the decision between making your own plant-based milk or buying it from the store comes down to individual preferences and priorities. Regardless of whether you decide to make your own milk or buy it from the store, the important thing is that you have the option to choose a healthier alternative for yourself and your family.
Bonus: Hemp as a game changer
I decided to experiment with hemp, which is considered the symbolic “child” of hippie culture. However, obtaining it required more effort, as I had to go to a larger supermarket instead of my usual local one. Therefore, hemp is not a convenient option. In the past, I had noticed that hemp milk tends to be thin and has a strange flavor. This sparked my curiosity to see if I could improve the taste by making it myself at home.
But the taste was not good at all. Next time I plan to add vanilla extract and a few dates to balance out the natural nutty flavor. Surprisingly, the preparation process was seamless – no straining was required like with other nuts. I simply blended the seeds, water, and salt for a minute.
