OATLY Oat Milk Original scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its moderate amount of added sugar and its classification as a processed food. It offers some micronutrient fortification.
FoodScore: 50/100 (Decent), indicating a moderately processed plant-based beverage.
Contains 2.9g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its processed classification.
Fortified with 11% DV calcium and 21% DV vitamin B12 per 100g serving.
NOVA class 3 (processed), typical for many fortified plant milks.
A 1-cup serving provides 50 calories, comparable to unsweetened plant milks but with added sugars.
Scores +5 points above the beverage category average (45/100 across 71 foods).
OATLY Oat Milk Original receives a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial fortification and factors like added sugar and processing. The product gains 6 points for its micronutrient profile, specifically for the inclusion of calcium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin, which are often lacking in unfortified plant-based beverages. However, it incurs a 1-point penalty due to its 2.9g of added sugar per 100g, which contributes to its overall caloric content without providing additional nutritional benefits. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA class 3, indicating a processed food, results in a 5-point deduction. Ingredients such as low erucic acid rapeseed oil and various phosphates contribute to its processed nature, though they are common in shelf-stable plant milks. Compared to an unsweetened plain almond or oat milk baseline, OATLY Original contains more calories and added sugars, which impacts its score. While it offers fortification, consumers seeking a less processed option might prefer unsweetened varieties.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in oatly oat milk original actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
OATLY Oat Milk Original is fortified with several important micronutrients, making it a valuable option for those seeking to supplement their intake. Each 100g serving provides 11% Daily Value (DV) for calcium and 21% DV for vitamin B12. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, while vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation, particularly important for individuals following a vegan or vegetarian diet who may have limited dietary sources.
Dairy-Free Alternative
For individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, or those choosing to avoid dairy for other reasons, OATLY Oat Milk Original serves as a suitable alternative. It provides a similar creamy texture to dairy milk, making it versatile for various culinary uses. This product allows consumers to enjoy beverages and recipes that traditionally call for milk, without the discomfort or dietary restrictions associated with dairy.
Low in Saturated Fat
This oat milk is naturally low in saturated fat, containing only 0.21g per 100g serving. Diets lower in saturated fat are generally recommended for cardiovascular health. The primary fat source, low erucic acid rapeseed oil, contributes to its smooth texture while keeping the saturated fat content minimal, aligning with dietary guidelines that encourage reduced intake of saturated fats.
OATLY Oat Milk Original scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its moderate amount of added sugar and its classification as a processed food. It offers some micronutrient fortification.
How to eat it
OATLY Oat Milk Original is commonly used as a dairy milk substitute in a variety of daily routines. It's often consumed in coffee, tea, smoothies, or poured over cereal. A typical serving is 1 cup (240ml), which provides 120 calories and 7g of added sugar. Be mindful of these amounts when incorporating it into your diet.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like whole-grain cereals or oatmeal to balance the added sugars and enhance satiety.
Use in smoothies with fruits and vegetables to boost nutrient intake and dilute the impact of the added sugar content.
Consider using it in moderation for coffee or tea, or opt for unsweetened plant milks if you are consuming multiple servings daily.
Store in the refrigerator after opening and consume within 7-10 days for optimal freshness and safety.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which means it contains ingredients beyond whole foods. While generally safe for most consumers, individuals with specific dietary sensitivities should note the presence of low erucic acid rapeseed oil and various phosphates (Dipotassium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Dicalcium Phosphate) which are used as stabilizers and fortifiers. These are common in many plant-based milks and are not typically a concern for the general population. The product is dairy-free, soy-free, and nut-free, making it suitable for those with common allergies to these ingredients. However, individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should be aware that while oats are naturally gluten-free, cross-contamination can occur if not certified gluten-free. This specific OATLY product does not carry a gluten-free claim.
OATLY Oat Milk Original can be part of a healthy diet, especially for those avoiding dairy. It provides fortification with calcium and vitamin B12. However, it contains 2.9g of added sugar per 100g, which contributes to its 'processed' classification. For optimal health, prioritize unsweetened beverages when possible.
How does OATLY Oat Milk Original compare to other plant milks?
Compared to unsweetened plant milks like Silk Unsweetened Almond Milk, OATLY Oat Milk Original has more calories and added sugar. It offers a creamier texture and similar fortification levels in terms of calcium and vitamin B12. For those monitoring sugar intake, unsweetened options are a better choice.
What is low erucic acid rapeseed oil, and is it safe?
Low erucic acid rapeseed oil, also known as canola oil, is a common vegetable oil used in many food products. It is included in OATLY Oat Milk Original as an emulsifier and to provide a smooth texture. It is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies and is a source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
How much OATLY Oat Milk Original can I drink daily?
The amount you can drink daily depends on your overall dietary needs and calorie goals. A 1-cup serving contains 120 calories and 7g of added sugar. If you consume multiple servings, the added sugar and calorie content can accumulate, so moderation is key, especially if you are managing blood sugar or weight.
Can OATLY Oat Milk Original be used in cooking and baking?
Yes, OATLY Oat Milk Original is a versatile ingredient for cooking and baking. Its creamy texture and slight sweetness make it suitable for a variety of recipes, including sauces, soups, and baked goods. It can generally be substituted for dairy milk in a 1:1 ratio, though the added sugar content might affect the final taste of some dishes.