To say the definition of ‘milk’ has diversified in the last few years would be an understatement. For those of us who are lactose-intolerant, vegan or just plain don’t like the taste of cow milk, we now have the options of almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, even cashew milk! But there’s a new kid on the block, and they’re about to blow your mind. The company Ripple Foods, which specializes in making dairy alternatives, is releasing a new product—Have you heard of milk made from peas?
While this may sound a little weird—anyone else thinking of pea soup?—this pea milk has quite a few health benefits, according to Fast Company. Ripple’s milk actually has 8 grams of protein, the same amount as cow milk and 7 more grams than almond milk. Plus, Ripple claims to be patenting a new technology that allows them to get rid of the pea taste and make a creamy, convincing dairy alternative. Cosmopolitan points out that pea milk includes quite a few more ingredients than cow milk does, if you care. If you’re interested in giving the newest member of the milk family a try, Ripple’s pea milk will be available at Whole Foods beginning May 2.
Did we mention that manufacturing pea milk is a whole lot better for the environment than dairy milk or almond milk? According to Ripple, pea milk requires way less water (like, over 90 percent less) for manufacturing than dairy does. So next time you’re at the supermarket, maybe try going green (not literally), and test out a bottle of this stuff.