THE PLAIN ONE DAIRY-FREE OATMILK
Summary
This oat milk is fortified with beneficial vitamins and minerals, enhancing its nutritional profile. However, the presence of vegetable oil, which is high in omega-6 fatty acids, and the use of natural flavors, which lack transparency, are concerns. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the inclusion of healthy ingredients like oats and essential nutrients.
At a glance
Key ingredients 20
Oat BaseGood
Oat base provides a source of dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It is minimally processed, retaining much of the natural benefits of oats. Oats are known for their heart health benefits and ability to support digestive health.
Benefits
Rich in beta-glucans, which can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
Filtered WaterNeutral
Filtered water is used as a base for the beverage, providing hydration. It is a neutral ingredient with no direct nutritional impact. The filtration process ensures the removal of impurities and contaminants.
Benefits
Essential for hydration and acts as a solvent for other ingredients.
Gluten-Free Oat ConcentrateGood
Gluten-free oat concentrate is a concentrated form of oats, providing a rich source of fiber and nutrients. It is processed to remove gluten, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. This ingredient supports heart health and digestive function.
Benefits
Provides soluble fiber which can aid in lowering cholesterol and improving gut health.
AmylaseNeutral
Amylase is an enzyme used to break down starches into sugars, aiding in the processing of oat milk. It is a natural enzyme with no direct nutritional impact. Its use is common in food processing to improve texture and digestibility.
Benefits
Facilitates the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, improving digestibility.
GlucanaseNeutral
Glucanase is an enzyme that breaks down glucans, enhancing the texture and consistency of the product. It is a natural enzyme with no direct nutritional impact. Its use helps in maintaining the quality and stability of the beverage.
Benefits
Improves the texture and consistency of the product, enhancing consumer experience.
Vegetable OilVery Bad
Vegetable oil is often high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess. It is typically processed and refined, which can strip away beneficial nutrients. The use of vegetable oil is discouraged due to potential health concerns related to its fatty acid profile.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Vitamins And MineralsGood
Vitamins and minerals are added to enhance the nutritional profile of the product. They are essential for various bodily functions and overall health. Fortification ensures that the beverage provides additional nutrients that may be lacking in a plant-based diet.
Benefits
Provides essential nutrients that support overall health and well-being.
Calcium CarbonateGood
Calcium carbonate is used to fortify the beverage with calcium, supporting bone health. It is a common fortification agent in plant-based milks. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to kidney stones or impaired absorption of other minerals.
Benefits
Supports bone health by providing a source of calcium.
Zinc GluconateGood
Zinc gluconate is added to provide zinc, an essential mineral for immune function and metabolism. It is a bioavailable form of zinc, ensuring effective absorption. Zinc is crucial for numerous enzymatic reactions and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Risks
Excessive zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption and cause gastrointestinal issues.
Benefits
Supports immune function and metabolic processes.
Vitamin E AcetateGood
Vitamin E acetate is a form of vitamin E used for fortification, providing antioxidant benefits. It helps protect cells from oxidative damage. Vitamin E is important for skin health and immune function.
Risks
High doses may interfere with blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding.
Benefits
Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
Vitamin A PalmitateGood
Vitamin A palmitate is a form of vitamin A used to fortify the beverage, supporting vision and immune health. It is a stable form of vitamin A, ensuring effective delivery in fortified foods. Adequate vitamin A intake is essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to toxicity, causing liver damage and other health issues.
Benefits
Supports vision and immune health.
RiboflavinGood
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is added to support energy production and cellular function. It is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in metabolism. Riboflavin is important for maintaining healthy skin and eyes.
Benefits
Supports energy production and overall cellular health.
Vitamin D2Good
Vitamin D2 is added to enhance the vitamin D content, supporting bone health and immune function. It is a plant-based form of vitamin D, suitable for vegans. Adequate vitamin D intake is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia, causing nausea and kidney problems.
Benefits
Supports bone health and immune function.
Vitamin B12Good
Vitamin B12 is added to support nerve function and red blood cell formation. It is an essential nutrient, particularly important for those following a plant-based diet. Adequate B12 intake is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining neurological health.
Benefits
Supports nerve function and red blood cell production.
Dipotassium PhosphateNeutral
Dipotassium phosphate is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier in the beverage. It helps maintain the texture and consistency of the product. While it has no direct nutritional benefits, it is generally recognized as safe for consumption.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to imbalances in phosphate levels.
Sea SaltGood
Unrefined sea salt — a minimally processed, natural source of sodium and essential trace minerals, and a legitimate whole-food seasoning. Treated as a positive ingredient.
Risks
Excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Provides essential sodium for fluid balance and nerve function.
Locust Bean GumNeutral
Locust bean gum is used as a thickening agent to improve the texture of the beverage. It is derived from the seeds of the carob tree and is a natural additive. It is generally recognized as safe and has no significant nutritional impact.
Benefits
Improves texture and consistency of the product.
Gellan GumNeutral
Gellan gum is used as a gelling agent to stabilize the beverage. It is a polysaccharide produced by fermentation and is widely used in food products. It has no direct nutritional benefits but helps maintain product quality.
Benefits
Stabilizes the product, ensuring consistent texture and quality.
Natural FlavourBad
Natural flavour is a catch-all term that can include a variety of substances, making it difficult to assess its impact. It is often used to enhance taste but lacks transparency regarding its composition. The use of natural flavours is discouraged due to potential undisclosed additives.
Risks
Lack of transparency can lead to undisclosed allergens or additives.
Ascorbic AcidGood
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is added for its antioxidant properties and to enhance the nutritional profile. It helps protect cells from oxidative stress and supports immune function. Ascorbic acid is essential for collagen synthesis and overall health.
Risks
High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Benefits
Acts as an antioxidant and supports immune health.
Processing
Processed Foods
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