
Most store-bought cashews are exported from India and Vietnam, where workers are paid almost nothing for dangerous work with cashews. Many providers may offer more ethical ways to produce almond milk.Ĭashews, on the other hand, have been known for labor concerns and poor working conditions. Almonds are also a source of concern when it comes to the honey bee crisis- they pollinate almond trees, and the use of heavy pesticides can impact the honey bee population. Each almond uses over three gallons of water in the production process. The vast majority of the world’s almonds are grown in California, and it takes an exorbitant amount of water to produce them. Environmental and Ethical Concernsīecause many people choose to avoid dairy milk because of ethical and environmental concerns, those same questions may come up when choosing between almond and cashew milk as well. In most cases, cashew and almond milk can be used interchangeably in recipes, though you may be sensitive to the changes in taste or texture and have a strong preference. Some people do not enjoy the taste of almond milk and therefore prefer cashew milk as it is more versatile. It also means fewer thickening agents may be used.Īdditionally, cashew milk has an earthier taste with less nutty notes. Taste and TextureĬashew milk has a creamier texture than almond milk, making it ideal for recipes like soups and cream sauces, as well as coffee creamers. Almond and cashew milk are both lower in calories compared to cow’s milk, and unsweetened nut milks have less sugar. While they contain some micronutrients like calcium and vitamins A, E, and D, both cashew and almond milk are fortified to similar levels as this is legislated by the Food and Drug Administration.ĭairy milk has more naturally occurring protein and calcium, as well as potassium in many cases. Store-bought versions of these milks often dilute the nutritional value, though this is equal across almond and cashew milk both.Ĭashews are known for being very rich in healthy fats and copper. Other nutrients like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc are present in both, making both almonds and cashews two of the healthiest nuts available. However, they have different benefits and areas in which they are lacking and may compare to dairy milk in different ways.Īlmonds are slightly higher in fiber and protein than cashews, though it’s a very small difference. Nutritional Profileīoth almonds and cashews are known as healthy foods and carry those properties into their respective milk.

While different flavoring or sweeteners can be added to either, the basic process of making a nut milk involves soaking nuts until they are soft, then blending them with water and removing any solid pulp.Ĭommercial nut milks may be made using preservatives, thickeners, or stabilizers to fortify the milk with other nutrients and can be compared by brand. Both almond and cashew milk are made in similar ways and with the same ingredients- water, and pure almond or cashew pieces.


Unlike traditional milks, nut milks are not made using animals in any way. Read on to understand the difference and why you may choose one nut milk over the other. Whatever your reasoning, you may be wondering if you should choose almond or cashew milk on your next grocery run. Some people choose these alternatives because they are lactose intolerant or cannot consume animal milk, while others have ethical reasons for a vegan option.

This trend shows no sign of stopping- reports from 2020 expect a 10% annual growth rate by 2024 in the plant-based milk market. Nut-based milks are one of the more popular choices in this category, with almond milk as the first pioneer and cashew milk following. Plant-based milks are more popular than ever, and a wide variety of options are available to choose from.
