Thinking of going dairy free? Maybe you’re lactose intolerant, milk allergic, or vegan. Perhaps you have strong ethical beliefs that guide your dietary choices. Whatever the reason, there’s never been an easier time to live sans dairy!

Manufactures have taken notice of the dairy free niche and created products accordingly. As a result of good old fashioned competition in the industry, taste and consistency have come a long way as well. Don’t be afraid to check out multiple brands. There can be significant differences.

Have you checked out the seemingly endless varieties of milk substitutes? Soy, rice, almond, coconut, hemp, oat, flax, and even quinoa have been processed to create “milk”. One of these creamy drinks is sure to please. No need to sacrifice nutrition or taste. Some of these beverages are calcium and vitamin fortified. Many come in flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, mocha, and egg nog.

The dairy free industry includes other incredible products as well. Milk free cheeses are getting remarkably close to the real thing. Kosher consumers are taking note of their new dietary options as well. A kosher “cheese”burger. Amazing! Most of these cheeses are soy and rice based. Some companies are making incredible strides in achieving the melty, stretchy qualities that we love in cheese.

It doesn’t end there, yogurts, sour creams, “buttery” spreads, and cream cheese can all be made without milk. These products open so many possibilities for those living dairy free. Decadent cheesecakes, rich mousses, chocolaty puddings, and ice-creams are all a reality. Dreamy frozen treats made from soy, rice, almond, or coconut have become quite popular.

These products form the staples of your dairy free recipes. Many can be substituted one for one in your favorite milk-based recipes. Other substitutes may not work as well. Scour the internet for dairy substitutions to learn how to make the most successful recipes.

In addition to all of these dairy-like products you still have all of the wonderful foods that are naturally dairy free. Poultry, beef, soy, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and grains. The delicious combinations are endless. You don’t even have to venture into the world of dairy substitutes. Calcium can be found in other foods and so can vitamins A and D.

Whether you choose to avoid milk for health or ethical reasons know that it is very manageable. You can do this! Still on the fence about going dairy free? Jump on over it’s a beautiful, healthy, and delicious world.