Dairy-Free (4269)

A dairy-free lifestyle is quickly gaining popularity as more and more people are swapping in dairy-free alternatives to milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and more. Why the switch? While some Americans struggle to digest the lactose found in dairy, others are embracing a more plant-based way of life. The good news is that there are now a variety of dairy-free pantry staples on the market—and we’re not just talking about soymilk. With everything from almond and hemp milk to cashew cheese and coconut cream on market shelves, whipping up a flavorful, dairy-free meal has never been easier. Here’s a closer look at this popular diet along with quick tips and must-try recipes.

What Is Dairy-Free?

Not to be confused with eating a lactose-free diet (which may still include lactose-free dairy products), eating dairy-free means avoiding all dairy products. In other words, skipping milk, cheese, and any animal milk-based product altogether. Instead, those eating a dairy-free diet will go for plant-based, non-dairy products made from nuts, grains, and even seeds.

Benefits of Dairy-Free

Some may make the case that there are ethical benefits of eating dairy-free, since many dairy cows aren’t permitted to graze outdoors and may be subjected to less-than-ideal farming conditions. Yet there are also dietary benefits that come with a dairy-free lifestyle. For instance, for people who have trouble digesting the lactose found in dairy, it just makes sense. And, like beef, dairy products contain artery-clogging saturated fat—so dairy-free eaters tend to get less of that. Dairy products also don’t contain fiber or iron, but dairy-free alternatives may be fortified with those nutrients.

Tips for Eating Dairy-Free

Eating dairy-free is easier than ever thanks to a variety of dairy-free beverages, pantry staples, and clever cooking techniques available. Here are some go-to tips:

• Try coconut milk in place of heavy cream or half and half in coffee drinks
• Opt for avocado on salads, sandwiches, or burgers instead of cheese
• Use almond milk instead of cow’s milk in baking or pancake recipes
• Skip the cream in soups and give them a heartier, creamier texture with blended cashews or chickpeas

Top Dairy-Free Brands

Skip the milk and stock up on these non-dairy staples.

Califia Farms

From flavored coffee creamers to cold-brew concentrates, Califia Farms offers a variety of plant-based foods made with California-grown fruits and nuts and bottled in California’s San Joaquin Valley.

Califia Farms Vanilla Almond Milk Creamer

Want to perk up your morning cup without milk or heavy cream? Swirl rich vanilla flavor into your coffee with this dairy-free creamer made with almond milk and coconut cream.

Simple Mills

This Chicago-based company offers gluten-free, dairy-free baking mixes and pantry must-haves, including pancake mixes, crackers, and frostings. Every item is Non-GMO Project Verified and made with real, wholesome ingredients.

Sea Salt Almond Flour Crackers

Craving something crunchy? Get your snack fix along with 3 grams of protein per serving with these nutrient-rich crackers made from a blend of almond flour, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds.

Dairy-Free Recipes

These dairy-free recipes are anything but boring.

Salted Caramel Power Muffins

Get a dose of greens and protein (sans dairy) in the form of deceptively sweet, gluten-free treats. There’s spinach mixed into the batter along with salted caramel protein for a wholesome start to the day.

Vegan Kale Nachos

Yep, you can enjoy nachos on a dairy-free diet thanks to this clever spin, which tops baked kale chips with spicy cashew “queso” and finishes things off with avocado, tomatoes, jalapeño, and cilantro.

Beetroot Ravioli With Cashew Crema

Who says ravioli has to include dairy? Try this plant-based take on the Italian classic in which soft cashew “cream cheese” is sandwiched between two thin slices of marinated beets.

Dairy-Free Chevre Log

Believe it or not, cheese is not a dairy-only thing. This log spreads like goat cheese but is actually made from cashews, probiotic powder, lemon juice, and sea salt for an ideal, animal-free tang.