Why has no one introduced a peanut-based beverage until now? This question was posed by Modern Farmer in 2015, during a time when almond milk was capturing the spotlight as the preferred tree nut beverage. At that point, peanuts had lost their place as the most popular nut in the U.S. (despite being a legume). The magazine pointed out that while there are examples of peanut-based drinks in other countries, such products were surprisingly absent from the U.S. market until recently.
It’s not surprising that Elmhurst, a plant-based milk producer that transitioned from traditional dairy, was the first to launch peanut milk. The company already offers beverages made from almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts, as well as grain-based drinks derived from oats and rice. Although peanut milk boasts a delicious flavor and nutritional advantages—such as vitamins B6 and E, magnesium, unsaturated fats, and 6 grams of protein per serving—it is not particularly low in calories. An 8-ounce serving of peanut milk contains about 150 calories and 11 grams of fat, while the chocolate peanut variety has 130 calories and 3 grams of fat, in contrast to just 60 calories in an 8-ounce serving of Almond Breeze or Silk. Additionally, the price of Milked Peanuts is on the higher side at $5.99 per quart.
Moreover, this new product is not suitable for individuals with peanut allergies. According to a recent study, peanuts are the most frequently identified food responsible for severe allergic reactions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reported an 18% increase in food allergies among children from 1997 to 2006. This may explain why manufacturers have hesitated to invest in research and development for such a potentially risky ingredient.
However, consumer interest in plant-based foods and beverages continues to rise. Sales of non-dairy milk in the U.S. have surged by 61% over the past five years, with projections suggesting they could reach $2.11 billion in 2017. From an environmental perspective, producing peanut milk is significantly more sustainable compared to almond milk. It requires less than five gallons of water to cultivate 1 ounce of peanuts, a stark contrast to the 80 gallons needed for the same amount of almonds. Although experts note that water efficiency in almond production has improved recently, the disparity remains notable.
As the demand for plant-based milk expands, a market for peanut milk could emerge. Consumers may seek various types of plant-based milk for different uses—one for their morning coffee, another for cereal, and yet another for cooking. Until the plant-based milk market reaches saturation, we can expect more companies to explore new ingredients in search of the next big flavor.
In addition, for those curious about nutritional supplements, it’s worth asking: what does calcium citrate do? This compound is known for its role in enhancing calcium absorption, making it a popular choice for those looking to improve their bone health. As plant-based options grow, incorporating nutrients like calcium citrate could further enrich these innovative beverages.