Did you know that producing just one liter of almond milk requires over 1,600 gallons of water? This staggering figure becomes even more concerning when you consider that 80% of the world’s almonds are grown in California, a region that has been grappling with severe droughts for nearly a decade. These water demands should be reason enough to reconsider reaching for that carton of almond milk.
But it’s not just the water usage that’s troubling—almond milk is also playing a significant role in harming the global bee population. Each year, California brings in over a million bee hives to pollinate its almond orchards. Unfortunately, about 25% of these hives are damaged or destroyed annually, largely due to the heavy use of pesticides. This is alarming because bees are vital to our entire food system. Without them, our global food chain could collapse.
While it's encouraging to see more people moving away from dairy, almond milk may not be the most environmentally friendly alternative. If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, consider choices like hemp, cashew, macadamia nut, goat, or oat milk. Just be sure to go organic, as non-organic crops are often sprayed with Glyphosate, a herbicide linked to cancer. Soy milk is another option, though I’d recommend avoiding it due to the fact that most soy is genetically modified.
Personally, I prefer coconut milk for its creamy texture and pleasant flavor. It’s not only delicious but also has a relatively low environmental impact. While it may not be the most nutritious choice, I don’t drink milk for its nutritional value—I mainly use it in smoothies, where the taste and texture are what matter most.
It’s easy to focus on eating what's good for our health, but we need to remember that sustainability matters too. Just because a product is beneficial for us doesn’t mean it’s also good for the planet. Choosing food that is both healthy and eco-friendly is key to making a positive impact.