The Fantastic World of Plant-Based Milks: Rice Milk Choices

Rice Milk is a dairy-free grain milk made from (generally) brown rice, which for the most part remains unsweetened, although some rice milks are now sweetened with natural ingredients such as sugarcane. The benefits of rice milk include:

• most rice milks are fortified with minerals and vitamins, including calcium, iron, niacin, as well as vitamins A, B12 and D. In fact, commercial brands of rice milk offer the same amount of calcium as all other milk alternatives
• unlike cow’s milk, rice milk contains no cholesterol or lactose, making it healthier for your heart
• rice milk is also low in fat, making it a particularly good milk substitute for baking; cooking; and drinks
• as with almond; coconut; hemp; and oat, rice milk is a great milk alternative for those who are allergic to soy, although not offering the same health benefits

WHAT TO BUY

1. RICE DREAM 

Rice Dream is the most common, and popular, brand for rice milk. They offer a natural non-dairy beverage made without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Low in fat and lactose-free it is a great option for anyone. It comes in “original”, as well as carob and vanilla.

RICE DREAM also offer an “enriched” version of their milks which are fortified with vitamins A, B12 and D, as well as calcium. These too are offered in “original”, chocolate and vanilla, as well as mini-packs which are ideal for packed lunches and snacks.