Oat Milk: The Plant-Based Trend Everyone’s Talking About (But We Use Coconut… For Now)
With more people in the UK ditching dairy, oat milk has become the poster child for plant-based alternatives. From flat whites to overnight oats, it’s hailed for its creamy texture and eco-friendly profile.
At Benergy Oats, we currently craft our overnight oats with coconut milk, chosen for its richness, subtle sweetness, and smooth consistency. But with oat milk on the rise, we’re keeping a close eye—and we might just have something oat-milk-based in the pipeline 👀.
So what’s the fuss about oat milk? And how does it stack up against coconut milk in terms of taste, nutrition, and sustainability?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Oat Milk, Really?
Oat milk is a blend of oats and water, often with added oils, salts, or vitamins. The oats are soaked, blended, and strained to create a smooth, creamy drink that works well in coffee, cereal, smoothies—and maybe soon, in a new Benergy recipe (stay tuned!).
It’s a popular choice for:
- Vegans and dairy-free diets
- People with nut allergies (unlike almond or cashew milk)
- Anyone chasing a more sustainable milk option
Coconut Milk vs. Oat Milk: What’s the Difference?
We chose coconut milk for our overnight oats because it creates a naturally rich texture without added gums or oils. It also brings a gentle tropical note that pairs beautifully with our signature flavours like Chocolate Orange or Berry Crumble.
Here’s how the two compare:
| Feature | Coconut Milk (used in Benergy) | Oat Milk |
| Taste | Subtle, slightly sweet, creamy | Neutral, creamy, mild oat note |
| Texture | Thick, smooth, full-bodied | Creamy, lighter than coconut |
| Calories | Moderate to high | Moderate |
| Protein | Low | Low (2–3g per 250ml) |
| Fibre | Low | Contains beta-glucans (2g fibre) |
| Fat | Medium (mostly MCTs) | Low |
| Sustainability | High (low water use) | Very high (especially UK oats) |
| Allergy-friendly? | Yes (dairy, gluten, soy free) | Yes (check for gluten-free cert) |
Why We Currently Use Coconut Milk at Benergy
Coconut milk offers:
- A naturally indulgent texture that mimics the richness of dairy
- A beautiful base for blending flavour without overpowering
- Shelf-stable convenience and clean ingredient profiles
- Compatibility with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan diets
It’s part of what makes our overnight oats so satisfying, even straight from the fridge.
🥄 Want to taste the coconut-powered difference? Shop Our Signature Overnight Oats
Could We Launch an Oat Milk Product in the Future?
Maybe 👀
We’re exploring new recipes—and oat milk might just have a place in a future Benergy creation. With its subtle flavour and added fibre, it could complement certain flavours or formats (like smoothies or oat drinks? Who knows… 👨🍳)
But if we do, it’ll still follow our core values:
- Minimal ingredients
- Clean nutrition
- Sustainable sourcing
- Incredible flavour
Is Oat Milk Actually Healthy?
That depends on the brand and what’s inside the carton.
Fortified oat milks often include:
- Vitamin B12 – essential for energy and nervous system support
- Calcium – important for bone health
- Vitamin D – key for immunity and mood
However, be careful of:
- Added sugars (especially in flavoured versions)
- Low protein content (compared to cow or soy milk)
- Emulsifiers or oils (used to improve texture and shelf life)
Top tip: Look for unsweetened versions with minimal additives—just like we do when developing anything at Benergy.
Oat Milk and the Planet
Oat milk is one of the most eco-friendly plant-based milks around:
- Uses 80% less water than almond milk
- Produces 70% fewer emissions than dairy milk
- Often made from UK-grown oats, reducing transport impact
It’s a win for those wanting to lower their carbon footprint without giving up on creamy texture.
(We proudly use UK oats in our overnight oats, too—whether they end up in your spoon or your mug.)
The Bottom Line: Coconut Milk Now. Oat Milk? Maybe Soon.
At Benergy, we’re always evolving—but never compromising. Right now, coconut milk reigns supreme in our overnight oats for its texture, richness, and simplicity.
But oat milk has its strengths—and we’re not ruling it out. If we do create an oat milk product, you can trust it’ll match our high standards and natural approach.
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Until Then… Let Coconut Milk Do Its Thing
Try our coconut-based overnight oats and taste the difference for yourself:
- No added gums
- No dairy
- No stress
Just rich, creamy flavour in every chilled spoonful.
🛒 Taste the coconut-rich breakfast everyone’s raving about. Shop Now
FAQs
How healthy is oat milk for you?
Oat milk is considered a healthy alternative to dairy milk, particularly for those with lactose intolerance or plant-based diets. It is low in calories and fat, and typically fortified with vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins. Oat milk contains fiber, which can aid digestion and help maintain a healthy gut. However, it may be higher in carbohydrates and sugars compared to some other milk alternatives, so it's important to choose unsweetened versions if you're watching your sugar intake. Overall, oat milk can be a nutritious choice when included as part of a balanced diet.
Why are people ditching oat milk?
Many people are ditching oat milk due to concerns over its environmental impact, particularly its water usage compared to other plant-based milks. Additionally, some individuals have reported digestive issues or a preference for taste and texture found in other alternatives like almond or soy milk. The rising popularity of other plant-based options and the increasing awareness of allergies and dietary needs also contribute to the shift away from oat milk.
What is the warning about oat milk?
Oat milk is generally considered safe, but there are some warnings to be aware of. Firstly, it may not provide enough protein compared to dairy or soy milk, potentially making it less suitable for certain diets. Additionally, some commercial oat milk brands contain added sugars and preservatives, which can affect health negatively. Lastly, individuals with gluten sensitivities should ensure they choose certified gluten-free oat milk, as cross-contamination can occur during processing. Always check labels to make informed choices.
Is oat milk healthier than almond milk?
Oat milk is often considered healthier than almond milk due to its higher fiber content and lower calorie count, making it a better choice for digestion and weight management. It also contains more carbohydrates, which can provide a quick source of energy. However, almond milk is lower in calories and fat, making it suitable for those looking to reduce calorie intake. Ultimately, the healthiest option depends on individual dietary needs and preferences.
