What Is Oat Milk?

Oat milk is a plant-based drink made by blending oats with water and then straining the mixture to create a smooth liquid. Commercial oat milk may also include ingredients such as oil, salt, vitamins, minerals or stabilisers, depending on the variety. 

Known for its mild, slightly sweet flavour and creamy texture, oat milk has become a popular alternative to dairy milk. It can be enjoyed in coffee, tea, smoothies, breakfast cereals, baking and savoury cooking. Organic oat milk is a versatile option for many everyday drinks and recipes. 

Where Does Oat Milk Come From?

Oats have been grown and enjoyed for thousands of years, particularly throughout Europe. While oat-based drinks have existed in different forms for many years, modern commercial oat milk was developed in Sweden during the 1990s. 

Today, oat milk is produced and enjoyed around the world as a popular plant-based alternative to dairy milk. 

To make oat milk, oats are combined with water and processed into a smooth mixture. The oat solids are then filtered out, leaving a creamy liquid. Commercial varieties may undergo additional processing to improve their flavour, texture and shelf life. 

What Does Oat Milk Taste Like? 

Oat milk has a mild, slightly sweet and subtly oaty flavour. Its neutral taste makes it easy to pair with both sweet and savoury ingredients. 

The texture is generally smooth and creamy, although it varies between products. Standard oat milk is often light and easy to drink, while barista oat milk usually has a richer texture designed for coffee. 

Because oat milk does not have a strong nutty or coconut flavour, it works well in recipes where you do not want the milk alternative to overpower the other ingredients. 

Oat Milk Nutrition 

The nutritional content of oat milk varies depending on the ingredients, production method and whether the product has been fortified. 

Always check the nutrition information panel for the exact nutritional values of the product you are using. 

Typical Nutritional Characteristics 

Oat milk generally contains more carbohydrates than unsweetened almond milk and less protein than dairy or soy milk. Fortified oat milk may provide calcium and added vitamins, while homemade oat milk is unlikely to contain these additional nutrients. 

Is Oat Milk Good for You? 

Oat milk can be enjoyed as part of a varied and balanced diet. Its suitability depends on the ingredients, nutritional content and your individual dietary needs. 

• Naturally Lactose-Free 
  Oat milk does not naturally contain lactose, making it a popular option for people who avoid lactose. 
• Plant-Based 
  Oat milk is made primarily from oats and water and is generally suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. Always check the product label, as ingredients can vary. 
• Versatile and Easy to Use 
  Its mild flavour and creamy texture make oat milk easy to incorporate into drinks, breakfasts, baking and savoury recipes. 

Oat milk is not nutritionally identical to dairy milk.  

Is Oat Milk Dairy-Free? 

Plain oat milk is made without cow’s milk and is naturally dairy-free and lactose-free. This makes it a popular choice for vegan diets and for people who avoid dairy. 

However, products and manufacturing environments vary. People with a milk allergy should always check the ingredients and allergen statement, as a milk allergy is different from lactose intolerance. 

Does Oat Milk Contain Allergens? 

Oat milk contains oats and may not be suitable for individuals with an oat allergy. 

Depending on where and how it is produced, commercial oat milk may also carry allergen statements relating to: 

• Wheat or other gluten-containing cereals 
• Soy 
• Tree nuts 
• Milk 
• Always check the ingredient list and allergen statement, particularly when choosing flavoured, blended or barista-style oat milk. 

How to Use Oat Milk 

One of the best things about oat milk is how easily it can be incorporated into everyday meals and drinks. 

Try using it in: 

• Coffee and tea 
• Smoothies 
• Breakfast cereals 
• Porridge 
• Overnight oats 
• Chia pudding 
• Pancakes 
• Muffins 
• Cakes and biscuits 
• Creamy pasta sauces 
• Soups 
• Mashed potatoes 
• Custards and desserts 

For savoury cooking, choose an unsweetened and unflavoured oat milk to avoid adding unnecessary sweetness to the dish. 

Oat Milk vs Dairy Milk 

Oat milk and dairy milk can both be used in drinks and recipes, but their nutritional profiles differ. 

Neither option is suitable for everyone. The best choice depends on allergies, dietary preferences, nutritional needs and how the milk will be used. 

Oat Milk vs Almond Milk 

Oat milk and almond milk are both popular plant-based milk alternatives, but they differ in flavour, texture and nutritional composition. 

Which One Is Better? 

Neither oat milk nor almond milk is inherently better. Oat milk may be preferred for its creamy texture and neutral flavour, while almond milk may suit those looking for a lighter plant-based drink. 

Check the ingredients, nutrition information and allergen statement to find the option that best suits your needs. 

How to Store Oat Milk 

For unopened commercial oat milk, always follow the storage directions printed on the packaging. 

Once opened: 

• Store it in the refrigerator. 
• Keep the lid tightly closed. 
• Shake well before serving. 
• Use it within the period recommended on the packaging. 
• Discard it if the smell, colour or texture has noticeably changed. 

Homemade oat milk has a shorter shelf life than commercially produced oat milk and should be refrigerated immediately. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Can you drink oat milk every day? 
  Oat milk can be enjoyed regularly as part of a varied and balanced diet. If it is your main alternative to dairy milk, consider choosing a product fortified with calcium and checking that the rest of your diet provides enough protein and other essential nutrients. 
• Is oat milk vegan? 
  Oat milk is generally vegan because it is made primarily from oats and water. Always check the ingredients and product label, particularly for flavoured or speciality varieties. 
• Is oat milk lactose-free? 
  Yes. Plain oat milk is naturally lactose-free because it does not contain dairy milk. 
• Is oat milk suitable for coffee? 
  Yes. Oat milk’s mild flavour and creamy texture make it a popular choice for coffee. Barista oat milk is specifically formulated to foam and blend smoothly into hot drinks. 
• Can oat milk be used in baking? 
  Yes. Oat milk can replace dairy milk in many cakes, muffins, pancakes, biscuits and bread recipes. In many recipes, it can be substituted using the same quantity. 
• Why does oat milk taste sweet? 
  Oats naturally contain starch. During commercial production, enzymes may break some of this starch into simpler sugars, creating a sweeter taste even when sugar is not listed as an added ingredient. 
• Is oat milk suitable for children? 
  Oat milk should not replace breast milk or infant formula. Before using oat milk as a main milk drink for a young child, parents and carers should seek advice from a GP, paediatrician or accredited practising dietitian. 

Final Thoughts 

Oat milk is a mild, creamy and versatile plant-based drink that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether added to coffee, poured over cereal, blended into smoothies or used in baking and savoury cooking, it offers a convenient alternative to dairy milk. 

Because ingredients and nutritional values vary between products, always check the label for protein, calcium, added sugar and allergen information. 

If you would like to make oat milk at home, explore our range of oats for everyday cooking, baking and breakfast recipes. For more inspiration, browse our collection of wholesome recipes and discover new ways to enjoy this versatile wholegrain. 

Read more: Oats 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Enjoying Oats - Honest to Goodness