13 Best Milk Alternatives for Tea

Estimated reading time: 30 minutes

Vegan and free-from diets are becoming more popular. This is causing a transformation in the world of tea. It is no longer a simple choice between “milk and sugar.” Tea drinkers now face a choice: “regular milk or plant-based milk?”, and “What is The Best Milk Alternative for Tea”. This change reflects the evolving tastes of today’s consumers in a changing landscape.

Experience a world of dairy free milk and vegan milk options like never before. Embrace the freedom to enjoy a creamy cup. This is possible for vegans, people with allergies, or lactose intolerance.

No more settling for black or green tea. Discover many alternatives to traditional milk. They let all tea lovers savour the delight of a milky brew.

Choosing the best milk alternative for your tea can be hard. This is especially true if you’re new to using them.

What is Plant Based Milk

Plant-based milk, as the name suggests, is a milk alternative derived from plants. It encompasses a wide variety of dairy free milks made from different plant. Sources are such as soy, almond, oat, coconut, and rice, to name a few. These milk alternatives are made by grinding a plant. Then, it’s mixed with water and strained to remove the pulp.

The surge in popularity of plant-based milks is due to many reasons. For some, it’s a dietary choice due to lactose intolerance or cow’s milk allergies. Others opt for plant-based milks for ethical reasons. These include veganism and concerns about animal welfare.

For many, the smaller environmental impact of plant-based milks is a big factor. Dairy milk is compared to it. In addition, plant-based milks come in many flavors. They can add a unique twist to your regular cup of tea.

What is Lactose Free Milk

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder. The body can’t digest lactose, a sugar in milk and dairy. This happens because of a lack of lactase, an enzyme made in the small intestine. It breaks down lactose into simple sugars for easy absorption.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually start within a few hours of eating dairy. They can vary in severity. Common symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and gas. Some individuals might experience severe symptoms, while others may only have mild discomfort.

Lactose-free milk is an excellent alternative for those with lactose intolerance. It’s essentially regular cow’s milk, but the lactase enzyme has been added to it. This added lactase breaks down the lactose in the milk. Making the milk easier to digest for those who struggle with lactose intolerance.

With the same nutrition as regular milk. It provides nutrients, like calcium, protein, and vitamin D. It’s also good for tea lovers who want milk’s creaminess, but no lactose.

Best Milk Options for Vegans 

Veganism is a lifestyle choice. It excludes the use, consumption, and exploitation of animals. This includes using them for food, clothing, or any other purpose. Vegans eat a plant-based diet. It is free from all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey.

Sourcing the best milk alternative for vegans can be a challenge, given the sea of options in the market. Yet, the top contenders are:

1. Soya Milk: This is one of the most popular and available alternative milk for tea. It has a creamy consistency like cow’s milk, making it an excellent option for tea.
2. Almond Milk: A nutty, sweet alternative. It can alter the flavor of your tea. It’s a good source of vitamin E and is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
3. Oat Milk: People know oat milk for its creamy texture and mild, sweet taste. It blends well with tea, providing a smooth, rich flavour.
4. Coconut Milk: This alternative has a distinct flavour that might not suit all types of tea. But, its creamy texture makes it a good option for making a dairy free’milky’ tea.
5. Rice Milk: This is sweeter than other plant-based milks and blends well with tea. Yet, it’s thinner in consistency.

Each of these milk alternatives offers unique benefits and flavours. The best option depends on individual taste preferences and dietary requirements.

The Best Milk Alternative for Tea

If you’re searching for the perfect milk alternative for your tea, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the options available. We will delve into how milk alternatives can enhance your morning loose leaf tea or bags. Join us as we reveal the top 13 dairy free milk alternatives for tea that will excite your.

Discover many tasty and safe milk alternatives. They suit your tastes and diet. Popular nut milks include almond and cashew. There are also unique options like hazelnut and macadamia. There are plenty of choices to explore.

Fear not if you have nut allergies. Plant-based options, such as soy, coconut, rice, hemp, and oat milk, are safe. They are also satisfying. Find the perfect milk substitute for you today.

1. Soy Milk Alternative

Soy milk, also known as Soya milk, has been the main milk alternative. It has been popular in cafes and supermarkets for some time. As a result, it’s the go-to choice for many. It’s still the most favoured plant-based milk.

Making soy milk involves soaking and grinding soybeans. Then, boiling and filtering the mixture removes any remaining particles.

Taste the creaminess of soy milk. It’s a refreshing alternative to options like almond and hazelnut milk. Discover the unique taste that sets soy milk apart, although not as sweet.

Be careful when pouring it into your favourite tea. Tea is slightly acidic. The temperature difference may cause the cream to split. Savour the goodness of soy milk with every sip.

Prevent soy milk separation in your tea by gently warming it before adding to your tea recipes.

The Pros of Soya Milk

• Easy to find: soy milk is in the supermarkets and in most cafes so no fuss to substitute alternative milk in your tea.
• Budget friendly: among the dairy free milk options soy milk is often the most affordable without compromising on quality or taste.
• Texture: soy milk has a velvety and creamy texture just like cow’s milk making the whole tea drinking experience more enjoyable and smooth.
• Nutritional benefits: high in protein and low in sugar so it’s a nutritious option to add to your daily protein intake and a healthier lifestyle.

The Cons of Soya Milk

• Not sweet enough: for those who like their tea sweeter soy milk may not have the natural sweetness of some other milk alternatives so you may need to add sweetener to get the same taste.
• Temperature sensitive: to prevent curdling or separation you may need to warm it gently before adding to hot tea to get a smoother drink.

Try soy milk as an alternative for your beverages. Experiment with different teas and find your perfect blend with soy milk for tea today!

Taste and get the nutritional benefits – it’s a win-win for you and the planet. Try this non dairy option in your daily tea ritual and enjoy all the flavors, textures and health benefits of soy milk!

Next time you grab that cup of tea remember to try soy milk – it might just become your new favorite alternative. Cheers to creamy and healthy tea!

2. Almond Milk Alternative

Almond milk is the number one nut milk globally and for good reason, it’s versatile and has a subtle flavour profile. Its mild taste adds a creamy sweetness to recipes without overpowering other ingredients.

The process involves soaking raw or blanched almonds in water, then grinding them into a smooth paste. This mixture is then strained through a fine cloth to get a silky smooth liquid that is the essence of almonds.

The appeal of almond milk goes beyond the nutty flavour and creamy texture, it’s a great addition to hot drinks like tea and coffee. It adds a layer of richness to the drink itself. Whether you want a delicate almond latte or just to add to your morning tea, it is unbeatable.

Almond Milk Pros

• Nutritious Profile: Is tasty with its nutty flavour and creamy texture and low in calories 20-35 calories per 100ml so it’s a guilt free indulgence.
• Accessibility: Because it’s so popular it is available in supermarkets and cafes so it’s convenient for consumers.
• Nutrient Rich: Packed with healthy fats, essential minerals and vitamins almond milk is a nourishing alternative to dairy.
• Versatile Use: Beyond beverages it’s a great base for smoothies and can be used in baking for added texture and flavour.

Almond Milk Cons

• Allergy Considerations: Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies so alternatives will need to be found for this group.
• Pricing: Compared to other plant-based milks, almond milk is less affordable so may be a consideration for budget conscious shoppers.
• Environmental Impact: Almonds are a water intensive crop so this could be a concern for environmentally aware consumers.

Enjoy the nutty goodness of this alternative milk for tea and see how it can turn your daily cup of tea into a treat. Add to your table the richness and nutrition of almond milk.

3. Coconut Milk Alternative

Coconut milk is made from blending fresh coconut meat with water and is a delicious, creamy liquid with a sweet and nutty flavour. Its sweetness makes coconut milk a great addition to your tea rituals whether you like a strong black tea or a spicy chai latte.

Each morning cup is an opportunity to try new and exciting flavour combinations with coconut milk.

When buying coconut milk make sure to check the label for added sugars and preservatives as these can affect the overall health benefits. Choosing a pure and natural one will boost the nutritional value and align with health conscious choices.

Pros of Coconut Milk

• Sweet and Creamy Taste: Coconut milk adds a rich and luxurious flavour to any drink or dish.
• Packed with Minerals and Nutrients: It’s a source of calcium, potassium and magnesium for overall well-being.
• Non dairy option: For those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, a nice alternative to cow’s milk.
• Healthy Fats: The medium chain triglycerides in coconut milk helps with weight management and energy.

Cons of Coconut Milk

• Too Sweet for Some: The natural sweetness might not be for everyone, especially those who prefer unsweetened.
• Variable Fat and Calorie Content: Depending on the brand coconut milk can have varying caloric and fat content so do consider if you’re monitoring your intake.

Try coconut milk in every cup of tea and see how this creamy one can change your tea game.

4. Oat Milk for Tea Alternative

Oat milk has become a staple in the plant-based milk world and is loved for its rich and creamy texture that goes perfectly with tea. This creamy alternative has a subtle sweetness that enhances the flavour of most hot drinks, so it’s a great addition for tea lovers.

Made by blending oats with water and straining out the solids oat milk is packed with vitamins, minerals and fibre all of which make for a healthy drink. It’s often fortified with more calcium and vitamin D than other dairy free milk alternatives so extra nutritional benefits.

Oat milk was the top plant-based milk for tea in the UK in 2020 and it’s not just because of the taste and nutrition but also the environmental benefits as it’s one of the most eco-friendly milk alternatives out there. It doesn’t separate so you get a smooth and enjoyable experience when used in recipes or your favourite teas.

Oat Milk Pros

• Light sweetness: goes well with hot drinks like tea.
• Nutrient dense: full of vitamins, minerals and fibre for overall health.
• Fortified with Calcium and Vitamin D: has the nutrients that are lacking in other plant-based milks.
• Stable consistency: doesn’t separate, so great for recipes and drinks.

Oat Milk Cons

• Cost: generally more expensive than other plant-based options.
• Sugar content: may have higher sugar level than some alternatives.

For tea lovers, looking for a subtle sweetness and creaminess to add to their cup of oat milk is the way to go. Its refreshing taste and nutritional benefits make it a great addition to any tea recipe. Try oat milk today and have a cup of tea like never before!

5. Cashew Milk Alternative

Cashew milk is a creamy indulgence for tea lovers looking for a tasty plant-based alternative. Made from raw cashews this milk is loved for its flavour profile that pairs beautifully with hot drinks especially tea.

Blending cashews with water and straining the mixture gives you a smooth, silky liquid. This results in a slightly sweet alternative milk that doesn’t overpower the tea flavours perfect for those who like a balanced taste.

Cashews are delicious and also bring many health benefits to the table. 75% of the fat in cashews is unsaturated including oleic acid which is good for heart health. Adding cashew milk to your diet is a proactive step to reducing the risk of heart disease so it’s not only tasty but also smart.

Its creamy texture and heart friendly benefits make it a great option for vegan tea lovers who are health conscious.

Cashew Milk Pros

• Creamy Texture: Pairs well with hot drinks like tea.
• Subtle Sweetness: No added sugars.
• Heart Healthy Fats: Oleic acid for heart health.
• Vegan Friendly: For those following a plant-based lifestyle.

Cashew Milk Cons

• Price: More expensive than other plant-based milk options.
• Nutritional Content: May not have as many vitamins and minerals as other alternatives.

Try cashew milk in your daily cup of tea. See why it’s a favourite among tea drinkers, and enjoy the taste and health benefits in your tea ritual.

6. Hemp Milk Alternative

Try the amazing taste of hemp milk, a new and delicious plant based milk alternative that’s joining the ranks of oat, almond and cashew milk. Made from pure water and hemp seeds from the Cannabis sativa plant, this nutritious drink is becoming popular among tea lovers looking for new non dairy options.

Don’t worry, hemp milk is completely legal and has no mind altering effects, as it’s made from the seeds not the buds of the plant. The process is simply blending whole hemp seeds with water and you get a thick creamy liquid with a nutrient dense profile.

Hemp milk is prised for its nutritional content, it’s a great source of omega 3 fatty acids which are good for brain health and the immune system. It also has plant-based protein and is mineral and vitamin rich.

A great addition to the diet of vegans who want to increase their essential fatty acid intake without consuming animal products. Its subtle nutty flavour is a great match for most hot drinks, and pairs well with tea or coffee to make your daily ritual even better.

Hemp Milk Pros

• Rich in Essential Fatty Acids: Good for brain health and immune system.
• Nutrient Dense: High in protein, minerals, vitamins.
• Subtle Nutty Flavour: Pairs with tea.
• Vegan Friendly: Plant based protein and nutrients.

Hemp Milk Cons

• Cost: Can be more expensive than other plant-based milks.
• Availability: Not as widely available as other non dairy milk alternatives for tea.

Try hemp milk and see why it’s becoming a favourite among tea drinkers, and enjoy the benefits with every sip. Its delicate nutty flavour and creamy texture makes hemp milk for tea a great addition to your cup of tea, taste and feel good. Read more: Hemp Tea Benefits.

7. Rice Milk Alternative

Rice milk is a plant based alternative milk made from boiled rice, brown rice syrup and water. It has a mild flavour with a sweet aftertaste, a great alternative for those looking for non dairy options.

It’s hypoallergenic so great for those with dairy, soya, nut or other allergens, a safe and inclusive option for many. Plus it’s gluten free so great for those with gluten intolerance.

Plus it’s full of nutrients. It’s a great source of vitamin B12 and other essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and iron for a balanced diet.

It’s fat and cholesterol free so great for the health conscious who want to manage their intake of these without sacrificing taste.

This milk is light and airy and pairs well with hot drinks like tea, a gentle sweetness that enhances flavours without overpowering them. It’s sweet profile matches tea perfectly so it’s a popular choice for those who want to add a hint of sweetness to their brew.

The Pros of Rice Milk

• Hypoallergenic: For dairy, soya or nut intolerant.
• Nutrient rich: Enriched with vitamins and minerals.
• Low in Fat and Cholesterol: Health conscious friendly.
• Light flavour: Pairs well with hot drinks, enhances tea without overpowering.

The Cons of Rice Milk

• Separation: May separate in tea, not as much as other plant-based milks.
• High in Carbs: For those watching their carb intake.

Try rice milk in your favourite tea. Hypoallergenic and nutritious, it’s a great addition to your tea time. Sweet and healthy!

8. Quinoa Milk Alternative

Quinoa milk is a special plant-based milk that adds a unique taste and texture to your tea. Made from quinoa, water and other natural ingredients, it has a creamy texture and a natural sweetness.

This combination makes quinoa milk perfect for hot drinks, especially tea, to add a bit of creaminess and subtle sweetness without overpowering the drink itself.

Quinoa milk is so popular because of its impressive nutrient profile, high in fibre, calcium, phosphorus and iron and other essential vitamins and minerals.

As a plant protein rich food it’s perfect for those on a vegan or lactose free diet, providing the body with nutrients while catering to specific dietary requirements.

Also quinoa milk is gluten free, a safe and tasty option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

With its subtle nutty flavour profile, quinoa milk pairs well with many tea types, adding its own taste to each cup while preserving the original brew.

Although a bit more expensive than other plant-based milks, its nutritional benefits and taste make it worth adding to your non dairy milk for tea options.

Quinoa Milk Pros

li>Nutrient Dense: Full of essential vitamins and minerals.
• Gluten Free: For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• High in Plant Proteins: Perfect for vegans or lactose free.

• Subtle Nutty flavour: Pairs well with tea, doesn’t overpower the drink.

Quinoa Milk Cons

• More Expensive: Than other plant-based milks.
• Less Availability: Not as widely available in the UK as other dairy free milk alternatives.

Try quinoa as an alternative milk in your tea. Why it’s becoming a tea lover’s favourite, and get it into your daily routine for a healthy and yummy experience.

9. Macadamia Milk Alternative

Macadamia milk is a decadent and silky addition to your tea even though it’s mostly water and only 3% macadamia nuts. It’s the only milk alternative that’s creamy and velvety, so if you’re a tea aficionado looking for a healthy non dairy option this is the one.

One third the calories and half the fat of regular cow’s milk, macadamia milk is perfect for those looking to reduce their overall diet. Low in carbs it’s especially good for those with diabetes or anyone reducing carbs.

The creamy texture of macadamia milk not only adds to the taste and mouthfeel of hot drinks like tea but also a subtle nutty sweetness to your drinking experience. It’s rich in healthy polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats that’s good for the heart, so it’s a healthy alternative.

Macadamia Milk Pros

• Low in Calories and Fat: For caloric and fat conscious.
• Healthy Fats: Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats for heart health.
• Creamy Texture: Teas best friend, smooth mouthfeel.
• Nutty Flavor: A natural sweetness to your drink.

Macadamia Milk Cons

• Limited Availability: May need to buy online as it’s not available in local stores.

• More Expensive: Generally more expensive than other plant-based milks.

It’s nutrient dense so it’s a favourite among health enthusiasts, and flavor won’t be compromised. If you want to be healthy and have great flavor, macadamia milk is the way to go.

Embrace this exquisite milk alternative in your daily tea ritual and enjoy both its taste and nutritional benefits.

10. Hazelnut Milk Alternative

Hazelnut milk is a tasty and creamy non dairy option for those who want to avoid dairy and soy. Made from water, organic hazelnuts and a blend of natural ingredients it suits many dietary requirements and restrictions.

It’s creamy texture makes it a great companion for hot drinks like tea and coffee. For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan hazelnut milk is lactose free, gluten free and cholesterol free and ticks all the health boxes.

This non dairy milk is hypoallergenic so is suitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.

Also hazelnut milk is enriched with vitamins and minerals like magnesium, folic acid, calcium and vitamin B12 for overall well-being. Its subtle nutty flavour not only goes well with hot drinks but also tastes great.

Hazelnut Milk Pros

• Hypoallergenic: Good for lactose intolerant or vegans.
• Rich in Vitamin E: Good for skin and hair health, your natural beauty.
• Low in Fat and Cholesterol: Good for heart health.
• Versatile Pairing: Goes well with tea and coffee, enhances the flavour.

Hazelnut Milk Cons

• Expensive and hard to find: Can be pricey and not available in all stores.
• Unique flavour: Not everyone will like the nutty taste.
• High Sugar, Low Protein: Has more sugar than some non dairy milks and no significant protein.

Enjoy the nutty goodness of hazelnut milk in every cup of tea! Have it in the comfort of your own home. Packed with vitamins and minerals this milk for tea is perfect for those who want to prioritise health and nutrition.

Hypoallergenic so everyone can enjoy. Treat yourself to the nutty goodness and creamy texture.

11. Pea Milk Alternative 

The newest addition to the milk alternatives family is Pea Milk, a great choice if you’re looking for a nutritious and eco-friendly option. Made from yellow peas, filtered water and a few natural ingredients, pea milk stands out for its high protein content, a great source of plant based proteins to nourish your body.

It’s got all the essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium for overall health and wellbeing. Plus it’s low in fat and cholesterol so great for those watching their calories or wanting to maintain a healthy weight.

It tastes mild and pairs well with hot drinks like tea, nice and smooth to drink.

One of the best things about pea milk is its environmental benefits. It has a smaller farming footprint than other plant-based milks, so it’s a more sustainable option.

The distance it travels to get to consumers can vary depending on where the crop is grown but it’s still more favourable than almond milk. This combination of sustainability and nutrition makes pea milk a contender in the non dairy aisle.

Pros of Pea Milk

• Low in Fat and Cholesterol: Great for weight management and heart health.
• Nutrient Dense: Packed with vitamins and minerals for health.
• High in Plant Based Proteins: Supports muscle and satiety.
• Versatile in Hot Drinks: Tastes mild with tea and coffee, nice to drink.

Cons of Pea Milk

Availability and Cost: Expensive and hard to find in some areas.
• Taste: Not to everyone’s taste.
• Unflavoured: Healthier without added sugars.

Try pea milk in your favourite tea and see why it’s becoming a hit among health conscious tea lovers. It’s got nutrition and sustainability. What more could you ask for?

12. Potato Milk Alternatives

The newest kid on the block in the milk alternatives world is potato milk, a drink made from potatoes, filtered water and sometimes pea protein and rapeseed oil.

This combination gives a creamy texture and a unique flavour profile, perfect for hot drinks like tea. Low in fat and cholesterol, it’s a great option for those who want to live healthy and enjoy good drink experiences.

It’s packed with proteins, vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron so every sip is a source of nutrition.

What sets potato milk apart in the plant based world is its sustainability potential. The agricultural footprint of potato farming is smaller than some other crops like almonds, so it’s a more eco friendly option.

Plus production of potato milk produces less carbon emissions than traditional dairy farming so it’s in line with the values of environmentally conscious consumers.

Pros of Potato Milk

• Low Fat and Cholesterol: For weight loss and heart health.
• Nutrient Rich: Provides vitamins and minerals for overall body functions.
• Proteins Included: Plant based protein source.
• Creamy: Perfect for hot drinks like tea and coffee.
• Environmental: High sustainability and low carbon footprint.

Cons of Potato Milk

• Cost and Availability: Expensive and not available in all markets.
• Sweet Varieties: Go for unsweetened ones to avoid added sugars.
• Acquired Taste: The flavour might not be for everyone.

Find out why potato milk is winning over health conscious tea lovers, taste and nourishment without compromising on eco-friendliness.

Enjoy the creamy texture and flavour in every sip, reap the benefits of its nutritional profile and make a positive impact on the environment. Guilt free tea time with this sustainable and nutritious option.

13. Flax Milk Alternatives 

Flax milk is a standout non dairy option especially for those who want to avoid soy or nut based products. Made from water, ground organic flax seeds and other natural ingredients, flax milk fits many dietary needs with its mild flavors and smooth texture making it perfect for adding to hot drinks like tea.

For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan flax milk is a solution, it’s naturally lactose free, gluten free and cholesterol free. Its hypoallergenic properties make it a milk alternative for those with specific dietary restrictions.

One of the best things about flax milk is its nutritional profile, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals. It has magnesium, vitamin D, calcium and beneficial omega 3 fatty acids which help maintain heart health by regulating blood cholesterol levels.

Low in fat and cholesterol but flax milk lacks protein, something to consider if you get your protein from plant based sources.

Flax Milk Pros

• Hypoallergenic: For those with allergies or dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance and vegan diets.
• Nutrient Dense: Has essential vitamins and minerals.
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Helps heart health by regulating cholesterol.
• Low in Fat and Cholesterol: A healthy option for a balanced diet.

Flax Milk Cons

• Availability and Cost: Not available in all markets and may be more expensive.
• Protein Deficient: Lacks protein content.
• Flavor Profile: Mild nutty taste may not be for everyone.
• Storage: Must be refrigerated to stay fresh and shelf life.

Flax milk is becoming popular among health conscious tea lovers because of its mild flavor, creamy texture and many health benefits. It’s also low impact on the environment, every cup is a nourishing experience that’s sustainable.

Know that every sip is good for you and the planet.

So What’s the Best Milk Alternative for Tea?

We’ve got 13 dairy free milk options, but which one is the best? When it comes to replacing cow’s milk with dairy free milk alternatives, your top choice depends on personal preference and any dietary restrictions you may have. But if you want our expert opinion, here are our top plant milk picks to go with black tea bags or loose leaf tea:

Our Favourites

Oat Milk: Smooth and slightly sweet, oat milk goes perfectly with black tea. Its creamy texture is a tea lover’s favourite.

1. Almond Milk: Nutty undertones, almond milk goes with the boldness of black tea. Lower in calories and a mild flavour that doesn’t overpower the tea.
2. Coconut Milk: A favourite for its creamy texture, coconut milk adds a hint of tropical flavour that turns your regular cup of tea into an exotic experience. Lovely when frothed lightly.
3. Soy Milk: One of the most protein-rich non-dairy milks, soy milk has a full-bodied texture that goes with black tea. Neutral flavour allows the tea to shine.

Each of these plant milks has its own characteristics that will enhance your tea time. Try them out and see which one suits your taste and lifestyle best and you’ll have a great tea time every time.

Our Winner: Oat Milk is the Best Milk Alternative for Tea

Our favourite dairy free milk for tea is oat milk. Smooth and creamy, oat milk adds a natural sweetness to black tea without overpowering the tea leaves.

As the UK’s new favourite plant milk, oat milk is now widely available in supermarkets and cafes across the country. It’s not just for tea, it goes well with coffee, hot chocolate and other drinks, so it’s a fridge essential.

Oat milk is also praised for its low environmental impact. Compared to other plant-based milks like almond or coconut, oat milk has a smaller farming footprint and uses less water in production. So it’s a great choice for those who are eco-conscious and want to make a positive change.

For those looking for healthier options, following a vegan lifestyle or managing dietary restrictions, oat milk is an easy, tasty and planet-friendly alternative to dairy. With oat milk you can enjoy every sip knowing you’re making a nutritious and eco-friendly choice.

Our Runner Up: Cashew Milk

Cashew milk has many of the same benefits as oat milk but with a few key differences that earn it our runner up spot. Lower in calories, fat and carbs, it’s a great option for those looking to lose weight or have specific dietary needs, including those with diabetes.

Smooth and creamy, this milk alternative enhances the flavour of tea without overpowering it, a lovely mellow taste many like.

While it has many benefits, cashew milk didn’t make our top spot for two reasons. Firstly, it’s not as widely available as other milks like oat or almond milk.

Secondly, it’s an allergy risk that oat milk isn’t, as it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies, making it less usable and appealing. While it’s a great option for those without dietary restrictions, its lack of availability and allergenic properties mean it just misses out on our number one spot.

Tips on Making Tea With Milk Alternatives

Making tea with milk alternatives requires more thought and preparation than just choosing your favourite non dairy milk. Here are some tips to help you perfect your tea making and get a nice brew:

1. Temperature is Key: Use cold or room temperature milk to avoid lumps and an over sweet taste. Cold milk won’t dissolve fully so balancing temperatures is important.
2. Start Small: Add small amounts of milk to your tea. It’s easier to add more if needed than to remove excess.
3. Mixing Methods: For a smoother, creamier brew use a blender or whisk to mix your milk alternative with the tea. This ensures even distribution and texture.
4. Coconut Milk Handling: If you’re using coconut milk, heat it before adding it to your tea. Heating helps dissolve the fats better so you get better texture and flavour.
5. Milk Stability: Not all milk alternatives can be boiled. Some will react and form lumps. Always check the label for instructions on how to use your chosen plant-based milk.
6. Frothy Finish: For a frothy texture use oat or soy milk which generally produce more foam than other alternatives and add a lovely extra dimension to your tea.
7. Timing is Everything: Add your milk alternative after the tea has been brewed and when the tea is being poured out. Don’t boil the milk with the tea as this can cause separation or change the flavour.

By following these tips you’ll get just the right amount of creamy goodness in your tea and the flavours of both tea and milk alternative will balance beautifully. Experiment with different variations to find your perfect blend.

Why Choose a Dairy Milk Alternative?

Choosing a dairy milk alternative has become more popular and the reasons are as varied as the options. People may start exploring non-dairy options due to lactose intolerance which affects around 68% of the global population.

This varies by region, 10% in some Northern European countries compared to 95% in parts of Asia and Africa. Beyond physical intolerance many people choose dairy free milk to follow a vegan lifestyle or other dietary preferences that prioritise health and ethical considerations.

The growing awareness of environmental issues is another reason, dairy alternatives like oat and almond milk have a lower carbon footprint than traditional cow’s milk. The demand for plant-based options has led to new and improved products to suit changing consumer tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you’ve found your favourite milk alternative or are still trying out, the secret to a real and delicious brew is using good quality ingredients. At our store we get that and offer a wide range of premium teas.

Browse our selection, loose leaf to tea bags, herbal, chai, matcha tea, fruit and green tea. With the right milk alternative and good tea your tea drinking can be lovely and lifestyle friendly.