Oat milk's annual growth rate is currently around 10%, and experts predict this trend is not going away. Why the surge? Well, with an estimated 30-50 million lactose-intolerant Americans, the demand for dairy alternatives is skyrocketing by the day.
Our choices for this review, Oatly Barista Edition, Califia Organic Oatmilk Original, and Kirkland Oat, have been carefully selected for a few very good reasons:
They are herbicide and heavy metal-free, addressing recent concerns about these contaminants in oat products. A 2023 study by Mamavation confirms their safety.
They don’t curdle in coffee and froth-ability.
Overall taste-worthiness beyond coffee.
So let’s get into it, and start with the outside player in the field.
1. Kirkland Oat Milk: Simple Goodness for a Complex World
Kirkland Oat Milk might not have the flashiest packaging, but what it lacks in fanfare, it makes up for in pure, delicious goodness. And there are more than a few things that set it apart:
What they promote: 20g of rolled oats in every serving.
Organic Love: Absolutely! It is USDA Organic certified.
Clean Ingredients: Kirkland boasts a remarkably simple ingredient list added to the oats. And they have no thickeners, gums, or artificial flavors to muddy the waters (or your oat milk!).
Creamy Dream: Don't let the simple ingredients fool you. Kirkland Oat Milk delivers a smooth and creamy texture that perfectly complements your coffee, cereal, or smoothie. It does have a slight oat taste, but it doesn’t stick around.
Right Price: Here's the kicker: Kirkland Oat Milk is significantly more affordable than most other brands, making it a budget-friendly choice for the eco-conscious consumer. You can get 6 x 32 oz. cartons in one pack. Available at Costco or online (without a membership needed).
Best Used By: 10-12 months, not refrigerated, which is great as they come in a six carton pack, and once opened, you should use it within 7-10 days.
2. Califia Organic Oatmilk Original: A Subtle Oat Experience
Califia Organic Oatmilk Original stands out with its clean, minimalistic packaging that delivers promises of pure, delicious flavor and texture. Here’s why it captivates oat milk enthusiasts:
Marketing strategy: Focuses on sustainability through recycled packaging, nutritional excellence with enriched products, broad accessibility via major retailers, and innovative product diversification, all supported by celebrity endorsements and extensive advertising.
Texture: It boasts a subtle texture, similar to 2% milk, perfect for drinking and enhancing smoothies and cereals. For me, it falls a little flat in coffee, however, if you are looking for an understated addition, it works.
Certified Organic: Califia Organic Oatmilk is USDA certified organic, containing only three ingredients: purified water, organic oats, and sea salt. It has no oils or gums, which makes it a very clean option compared to other oat milk.
Price Consideration: Available in a 48-ounce bottle, it is priced high. The product is available in major retailers like Kroger, Whole Foods, and Sprouts Farmers Market nationwide.
Best Used By: Typically found in the refrigerated section, Califia Organic Oatmilk has a shelf life of 4-6 months when unopened and should be consumed within 7-10 days after opening.
3. Oatly Barista Edition: A Masterful Blend for Coffee Lovers
Oatly Barista Edition stands out with its sleek packaging and focus on crafting the perfect oat milk for coffee. This is why it’s a favorite among baristas and coffee aficionados:
Marketing Hook: Carbon Footprint per cup, while referring to their ingredients as boring, but important.
Creamy Texture and Microfoam Magic: Barista Edition boasts a smooth texture ideal for latte art and creamy cappuccinos.
Subtle Oat Flavor: Barista Edition strikes a balance, complementing coffee's richness with a hint of oat without being overpowering. Subtle may be a strong word here, as you have to look for it, but it’s our biggest full-cream dairy impersonator on the list—that is when you try it on its own or with cereal.
Fortified with Vitamins and Minerals: Oatly Barista Edition is a good source of calcium and vitamins A, D2, and B12.
Not Organic: While Oatly offers some organic oat milk options, Barista Edition is not currently certified organic in the US, but other countries have the same product listed as organic.
Price Point: Due to its focus on barista-quality performance, Oatly Barista Edition comes in a smaller 32-oz carton and is about double the price of Kirkland.
Best Used By: 10-12 months, with 7 days to use once opened. Also, it always seems to be refrigerated in stores - it can be found online or in stores at Target, Walmart, and Kroger.
The Verdict: Best Oat Milk - Win With Each Providing Great Options
Best for Coffee: Kirkland and Oatly
Best for Cereals and Smoothies: Califia and Oatly
Best for Drinking: Califia and Kirkland
Best for Budget: Kirkland
Minimalist and Sustainability Living
The evidence is clear: Oat Milk is a fantastic dairy alternative that's good for you and the planet. For me, a coffee companion is the most important, and Kirkland works best. It also froths like nobody’s business, elevating your daily enjoyment with its smoothness and quality. Ultimately, the best oat milk for you depends on your priorities.