What is hazelnut milk?

What is hazelnut milk?

Hazelnut milk is a plant-based milk made from hazelnuts and water. It is typically produced by blending the nuts with water and straining the pulp, leaving a smooth, creamy liquid. Some store versions contain only filtered water and hazelnuts, while others add sweetener, salt, thickeners, calcium and vitamins.

What does hazelnut milk taste like?

Nutty and rich, though taste varies by brand. People use it in coffee, hot chocolate, cereal, oatmeal and smoothies.

Is hazelnut milk safe for nut allergies?

No. Hazelnuts are one of the nine tree nuts responsible for most tree nut allergies, according to Thermo Fisher Scientific. Hazelnut is the most common tree nut allergy in Europe, and about 30 percent of people with a tree nut allergy react to more than one nut. Reactions typically begin within minutes and can range from hives to anaphylaxis. If you have a tree nut allergy, avoid hazelnut milk and ask your allergist before trying other nut milks.

How do you read the label?

• Ingredients: the shortest list is hazelnuts and water; check for added sugar or thickeners.
• Nutrition: the nut share in the drink is small, so do not expect it to match whole hazelnuts. Per-cup protein and fat vary by brand.
• Fortification: some brands add calcium and vitamins, others do not.
• May contain: check the allergy line.

How does it compare with other plant milks?

Compare protein, sugar and fortification on the label with other plant milks; they vary by brand.

Can you make it at home?

Yes: soak the hazelnuts, blend with fresh water, strain, then chill. Homemade milk has no preservatives and is not fortified, so use it within a few days, our own cautious rule, and discard it if it smells off.

Who should talk to a professional first?

Anyone with a nut allergy, or choosing a main drink for a child. This is general information, not medical advice.