SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE VANILLA GREEK STYLE CULTURED ALMOND MILK, VANILLA scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and **added sugar content**, despite providing some beneficial micronutrients.
This product receives a FoodScore of 45/100, categorized as Decent.
It provides 3.5g of fiber and notable amounts of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12.
A significant concern is its NOVA class 4 status, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Compared to generic dairy yogurt, it has less protein but is a dairy-free alternative.
Consider this product as an occasional option rather than a daily staple due to its added sugar.
Scores +12 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE VANILLA GREEK STYLE CULTURED ALMOND MILK, VANILLA earns a FoodScore of 45/100. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and less desirable components. The product receives bonuses for its fiber content, providing 3.5g per serving, and for its micronutrient profile, specifically 14% DV for calcium, 17% DV for magnesium, and 44% DV for vitamin B12. However, significant penalties are applied due to its added sugar content of 4.94g per 100g, which contributes to a less favorable nutritional profile. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA class 4 indicates it is an ultra-processed food, incurring a substantial penalty. Ingredients like dried cane syrup are sources of this added sugar. While it offers a dairy-free alternative, its nutritional density, particularly in protein (3.53g per 100g), is lower than that of a generic dairy Greek yogurt, which typically provides more protein per serving.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in so delicious dairy free vanilla greek style cultured almond milk, vanilla actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Bone Health with Calcium and Vitamin D
This SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE product is fortified with calcium and vitamin D, contributing to bone health. Each serving provides 14% of the Daily Value for calcium, a mineral essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. While the vitamin D content is not specified as a percentage, its inclusion supports calcium absorption, which is crucial for bone mineralization. This makes it a useful option for individuals seeking to increase their intake of these bone-supporting nutrients, especially those avoiding dairy.
Contributes to Nerve and Muscle Function with Magnesium
The product contains 71mg of magnesium per 100g, which is 17% of the Daily Value. Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those that regulate nerve and muscle function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure. Adequate magnesium intake is also important for energy production and protein synthesis. Including this product can help contribute to your daily magnesium needs, supporting overall physiological processes.
Provides Vitamin B12 for Energy and Neurological Health
SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE VANILLA GREEK STYLE CULTURED ALMOND MILK is a significant source of vitamin B12, offering 44% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. It plays a key role in energy metabolism and maintaining a healthy nervous system. For individuals following a plant-based diet, where B12 can be scarce, this fortified product offers a convenient way to help meet daily requirements for this essential vitamin.
SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE VANILLA GREEK STYLE CULTURED ALMOND MILK, VANILLA scores 45/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and added sugar content, despite providing some beneficial micronutrients.
How to eat it
This Greek-style cultured almond milk is typically consumed as a snack, part of breakfast, or as an ingredient in smoothies. A common portion is one container, which aligns with the serving size. Be mindful of its added sugar content when combining with other sweetened foods.
Pair with unsweetened berries or nuts to add more fiber and healthy fats without increasing added sugar.
Use as a base for smoothies, blending with spinach or kale to boost nutrient density and dilute the sweetness.
Consider using half a container if you are monitoring your added sugar intake, especially if consuming other sweetened items.
Swap for a higher-protein, lower-sugar plain Greek yogurt if your primary goal is protein intake and less added sugar.
Store in the refrigerator and consume by the 'best by' date for optimal freshness and live culture activity.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed. While generally safe for consumption, individuals sensitive to certain food additives might want to review the ingredient list. It contains chicory root extract, a source of inulin, which can cause digestive discomfort like bloating or gas in some individuals, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The product is dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, but it does contain almonds, which are a common tree nut allergen. Always check the label for specific allergen warnings if you have sensitivities.
Is SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE VANILLA GREEK STYLE CULTURED ALMOND MILK healthy?
This product scores 45/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It provides some beneficial micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12, along with fiber. However, it is an ultra-processed food and contains added sugar, which lowers its overall nutritional quality compared to less processed options.
How does SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE compare to traditional dairy Greek yogurt?
Compared to a plain, traditional dairy Greek yogurt like FAGE Total 0% Milkfat Plain Greek Yogurt, SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE has significantly less protein (3.53g vs. typically 17-20g per 100g) and contains added sugar, which plain dairy Greek yogurt does not. However, it offers a dairy-free alternative for those with dietary restrictions and provides similar fortification with calcium and vitamin B12.
What is 'chicory root extract' in this product?
Chicory root extract is a source of inulin, a type of soluble fiber. It is often added to foods to boost fiber content and can also act as a prebiotic, supporting gut health. However, in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive digestive systems, consuming larger amounts of inulin can lead to digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas.
What is a recommended portion size for this product?
The recommended serving size is one container. This portion provides 81.76 calories, 3.5g of fiber, and 4.94g of added sugar. If you are monitoring your sugar intake, you might consider consuming half a container or balancing it with other unsweetened foods throughout your day.
Can I use this product in cooking or baking?
Yes, SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE VANILLA GREEK STYLE CULTURED ALMOND MILK can be used in cooking or baking as a dairy-free alternative. Its vanilla flavor and slight sweetness make it suitable for recipes where these characteristics are desired. However, be mindful of the added sugar content when adjusting other sweeteners in your recipe.