So Delicious Dairy Free Almond Plus Almond Milk Vanilla

by Danone Us

A fortified almond milk with protein additions that's a reasonable dairy alternative, but contains concerning carrageenan and processed sweeteners. The protein fortification is beneficial, but the inflammatory thickeners and added sugars reduce its health value.

• Almond Milk (Water, Almonds) – beneficial · The primary ingredient providing healthy fats, vitamin E, and minimal processing when made from whole almonds and water.
• Dried Cane Syrup – controversial · A less processed form of sugar but still adds empty calories and can contribute to blood sugar spikes and inflammation.
• Pea Protein – beneficial · High-quality plant protein that's easily digestible and provides essential amino acids for muscle health.
• Rice Protein – safe · Complementary plant protein that combines well with pea protein to provide a complete amino acid profile.
• Calcium Phosphate – safe · Added mineral to replace calcium naturally found in dairy milk, important for bone health.
• Magnesium Phosphate – safe · Essential mineral supplement that supports muscle and nerve function, often deficient in modern diets.
• Carrageenan – controversial · Seaweed-derived thickener linked to gut inflammation and digestive issues in some studies, particularly degraded forms.
• Vanilla Extract – safe · Natural flavoring derived from vanilla beans, generally safe and provides authentic vanilla taste.
• Natural Flavor – safe · Undefined natural flavoring compounds that are generally recognized as safe but lack transparency in sourcing.
• Locust Bean Gum – safe · Natural thickener from carob tree seeds that's generally well-tolerated and helps create smooth texture.
• Kosher Sea Salt – safe · Natural salt that enhances flavor and provides essential sodium in appropriate amounts.
• Vitamin A Palmitate – safe · Synthetic form of vitamin A added for fortification, important for vision and immune function.
• Vitamin D-2 – safe · Plant-derived vitamin D that supports bone health and immune function, though D3 is more bioavailable.
• L-Selenomethionine (Selenium) – safe · Highly bioavailable form of selenium, an important antioxidant mineral that supports thyroid function.
• Zinc Oxide – safe · Essential mineral supplement that supports immune function and wound healing.
• Folic Acid – safe · Synthetic form of folate that's important for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.
• Vitamin B-12 – beneficial · Essential vitamin often deficient in plant-based diets, crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

Added plant protein for muscle health

Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals

Dairy-free alternative for lactose intolerant

Contains vitamin B12 often lacking in plant diets

Contains carrageenan linked to gut inflammation

Added sugar from dried cane syrup

Highly processed with synthetic vitamins

Ultra-processed Nova Class 4 food