Almond milk is one of the most popular plant-based milk alternatives. It is made by blending almonds with water and then straining the mixture to remove the solids. While almond milk is a great source of nutrients, some people are concerned about the presence of cyanide in the milk.
What is Cyanide?
Cyanide is a highly toxic chemical compound that is found in many substances, including almonds. It is formed naturally in the kernels of bitter almonds and other stone fruits, such as apricots, peaches, and cherries. In small doses, cyanide is harmless to humans. However, in large doses, it can cause serious health problems, including death.
How is Cyanide Related to Almond Milk?
The cyanide in almond milk comes from the almonds used to make it. Most of the almonds used to make almond milk are sweet almonds, which contain very low levels of cyanide. However, some almond milk manufacturers use bitter almonds or apricot kernels, which contain higher levels of cyanide. This is because bitter almonds have a stronger almond flavor than sweet almonds, so they are sometimes used to enhance the taste of the milk.
Is Almond Milk Safe to Drink?
Despite the presence of cyanide in almond milk, it is generally considered safe to drink. The amount of cyanide in sweet almonds is very low, and the levels are even lower in almond milk. In fact, the cyanide levels in almond milk are so low that they are not considered harmful to humans.
However, if you are concerned about the cyanide levels in almond milk, you can choose to make your own almond milk using sweet almonds. This will ensure that the cyanide levels are kept to a minimum.
Conclusion
Almond milk is a great alternative to dairy milk for people who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a healthier option. While almond milk does contain cyanide, the levels are so low that they are not considered harmful to humans. If you are concerned about the cyanide levels in almond milk, you can choose to make your own almond milk using sweet almonds.