Macadamia Nut Milk
What is Macadamia Nut Milk?
Macadamia nut milk is a popular non-dairy alternative to cow’s milk. It is made by blending macadamia nuts, also known as Queensland nut or bush nut, with water, and then strained to remove the impurities. The liquid has a thick and creamy consistency and a nutty and fruity flavor.
- However, it is a very expensive option because macadamia nuts are the most expensive nuts in the world.
- Nonetheless, it has become a popular milk alternative to those on plant-based diets.
Some popular macadamia nut milk brands are:
- Suncoast Gold
- Milkadamia
- Australia’s Own
- Macamilk
Origin
Macadamia nuts originated in Queensland, Australia. The nuts commercially produced today have their origin in a single tree in the province. However, scientists believe that there is scope for diversity to be found among the wild varieties. The oldest macadamia tree planted by humans is in Brisbane and dates back to 1858. Also, macadamia nut milk was originally created in Australia and is still a rarity in most parts of the world. Nonetheless, the popularity of veganism has boosted its demand across the globe.
Commercial production
The first step in preparing macadamia nut milk is to soak the nuts. Then, they are blended with water. After that, the mixture is strained to remove any residue and then blended again. Finally, flavoring agents such as vanilla, sugar, honey, and salt or additives to maintain shelf life are added.
Nutrition
Nutritional profile for macadamia nut milk (10 oz):
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Regular consumption of these nuts may help in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and colon cancer. Also, the nutrients in them and, thus in macadamia nut milk, help keep metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and diabetes in check. Macadamia nut milk may help in preventing degeneration of the brain and related diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Macadamia nut milk recipes
This nut milk is often used as a substitute for dairy milk. Here are a few recipes to try:
FDA regulations
The FDA regulates macadamia nuts and classifies them as a raw agricultural commodity, therefore, it oversees their growing, harvesting, packing, and holding. However, there are no current regulations for macadamia nut milk.
References
Irene Kim, What makes macadamia nuts the most expensive nuts in the world, at $25 per pound, Business Insider India, https://www.businessinsider.in/retail/what-makes-macadamia-nuts-the-most-expensive-nuts-in-the-world-at-25-per-pound/articleshow/68290727.cms
Vanga, Sai Kranthi, and Vijaya Raghavan. “How well do plant-based alternatives fare nutritionally compared to cow’s milk?.” Journal of food science and technology vol. 55,1 (2018): 10-20. doi:10.1007/s13197-017-2915-y, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756203/
Griel, Amy E et al. “A macadamia nut-rich diet reduces total and LDL-cholesterol in mildly hypercholesterolemic men and women.” The Journal of nutrition vol. 138,4 (2008): 761-7. doi:10.1093/jn/138.4.761, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18356332/