You've probably seen cartons of almond milk or pistachio milk on store shelves and wondered, “Is this really milk?” Well, let's talk about it. Nut milk, or nut mylk, is becoming super popular — not just for people who can't have dairy, but also for anyone trying to eat cleaner or more plant-based.

Today, we'll walk through what nut milk really is, how it compares to regular dairy, and why so many of us are reaching for it.

Which type of milk is best for you? - Jonathan J. O’Sullivan & Grace E. Cunningham

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So what exactly is nut milk?

Nut milk isn't actually milk from animals. It's a smooth, creamy liquid made by blending nuts like almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, or cashews with water, then straining out the solids. It looks like milk, tastes a bit nutty, and comes in different flavors depending on the nuts used.

Traditional milk comes from animals like cows or goats, and while it's packed with nutrients like calcium and protein, it doesn't work for everyone. Some people get stomach discomfort, bloating, or even high blood pressure from dairy. And with more people concerned about animal welfare and environmental issues, plant-based milks have started to shine.

Let's compare: Nut milk vs Dairy milk

If we're looking at nutrition, here's what we've found (based on 200 ml of each drink):

• Dairy milk gives you about 8g of protein per cup.

• Soy milk has around 6g, and

• Almond milk comes in lowest, at about 1g of protein.

That's a big difference. But almond milk often has added calcium, so don't let the low natural amount fool you. Always check the label — many brands fortify nut milks to boost their nutrition.

Why almond milk is a super choice?

Almonds are considered a “super nut” for good reason. Almond milk is high in vitamin E, which helps protect your skin and supports your immune system. It's also lower in calories and carbs compared to dairy, making it a great option if you're watching your intake.

Just be careful — some almond milks have added sugars or honey to improve taste, which can sneak in extra calories. Always go for unsweetened versions when possible.

Other nut milks we love

Let's look at a few more nutty options you might want to try.

Pistachio milk: Tasty and colorful

Pistachios give you a fun greenish milk that's rich in vitamins A, C, and B6. You'll get fewer proteins than from almonds, but more antioxidants like resveratrol — which is also found in grapes. The taste is a bit different from most other milks — it has a unique nutty twist that many people enjoy.

Hazelnut milk: Rich and cozy

Hazelnut milk is perfect if you're looking for something creamy, nutty, and full of flavor. Unlike almonds, hazelnuts don't have that bitter aftertaste some people notice. This milk is also a good source of Omega-3s, which support heart health.

We love hazelnut milk in coffee or tea — it adds a sweet, chocolate-like aroma that reminds us of hazelnut spread and smooth chocolate candies!

Cashew milk and others

Cashew milk is smooth and slightly sweet — it has a naturally creamy texture that's great for cooking. Macadamia milk is another rich option, but it's less common and usually more expensive because macadamias are harder to grow and harvest.

Walnut milk doesn't show up much in stores, likely because of its strong taste, but it's super nutritious. And while peanut milk is delicious, many people avoid it due to peanut allergies, so it's not a big player in the market.

Which one should we pick?

Honestly? There's no one-size-fits-all answer. If you need high protein, dairy still wins. But if you're looking for a lighter option with fewer calories, nut milks like almond or cashew are great. And if you want extra vitamins or unique flavors, pistachio and hazelnut milk might surprise you.

Here's our top tip

To get the best of both worlds, we suggest drinking dairy milk for protein and snacking on a handful of nuts for all the extra nutrients. That way, you won't miss out on anything.

And if you're feeling creative, why not try making your own nut milk at home? It's fresh, customizable, and surprisingly easy.

Let's hear from you, Lykkers!

Have you tried nut milk yet? Do you have a favorite kind, or are you thinking of making some at home? Drop us a message or comment — we'd love to know which one you're pouring into your cereal or coffee!