What does“use of the whole oat”in Willa’s Oat Milk mean?

While some oat milks only use the starchy part of the oat, we use the whole or entire oat, including the germ, which is highly nutritionally dense. How do you know if an oat milk uses the whole oat, and it includes all its nutrients? Instead of just “oats”, you will see the words “whole grain” next to “oat” in the ingredients list.

Why is Organic and Non-GMO important for Oat Milk?

Roundup weedkiller is increasingly associated with oats . According to CNN , “Some types of oat cereals, oatmeal, granola and snack bars contain higher levels of a chemical found in the weed killer Roundup than what the Environmental Working Group considers safe…Almost three-quarters of food samples tested showed higher glyphosate levels than what the group's scientists believe to be "protective of children's health.” An important note regarding this is that genetic modification (GMOs) crops are designed to tolerate pesticides like Roundup (Glysophate). This means non-organic oats that are not labeled “Non-GMO” likely contain high level of Roundup (Glysophate) because they were designed to withstand it.

Why should I care that phosphates are not in Willa’s Barista Oat Milk?

Phosphate ingredients, which usually start with “phos-” on an ingredients label, are an acidity regulator commonly used in plant milks, as well as processed food. Americans get 30-50% more phosphates in their diet than they should, contributing to a higher propensity for many health issues , even in healthy adults. For this reason, the Center for Science and Public Interest suggests we “cut back” on phosphate ingredients . These associated health issues found here and here range from bone density, to kidney and heart health, leading nutritionists to suggest even banning these ingredients. Phosphate ingredients were nearly banned in the EU in 2017, and may be up for a vote again in the future. In fact, Panera voluntarily removed phosphates ingredients from their menu items. They may also be associated with tiredness , according to this study , as well as digestive issues .

What is gellan gum? Why is it added to Willa’s Barista Oat Milk?

Gellan gum is created through a fermentation process. It was originally discovered in lily pads in Pennsylvania. Gellan gum has not been found to be harmful by global environmental and health organizations . It is also Whole30 approved . We use Non-GMO for our barista blend to ensure your coffee drinks steams and foams like a dream, without us needing to use anything harmful. Gellan gum can be used as a replacement for Carrageanan, as well as Phosphates. Phosphates have been found to be harmful to humans by several organizations as well as numerous medical studies .

What is calcium carbonate? Why is it added to Willa’s Barista Oat Milk?

Many of our earliest fans told us that their non-dairy diets made it challenging for them to get enough calcium. So, we added calcium carbonate, which is commonly found in calcium supplements.

Why is there sugar in Willa’s Barista Oat Milk?

Whole oats naturally have sugar. Our oats however, have less natural sugar than many of our competitors because we use the whole oat, keeping the bran and germ, whereas other oat milks only use the starchy sugary part of the oat. If you’ve ever made whole oats, you know they need a little salt and a little sugar to balance their natural oaty-ness. We add 1 gm of sugar per cup, which is equivalent to a ¼ teaspoon per cup of oat milk.

Is Willa’s Barista Oat Milk gluten-free?

There are no gluten ingredients in our oat milk. However, our organic oats are not officially certified gluten free. Our suppliers may harvest oat on fields previously used to grow wheat or next to a wheat field resulting in a slight chance of cross-contamination.

Is Willa’s Barista Oat Milk vegan?

Yes, it sure is. There are no dairy, meat, egg, or animal ingredients.

Is Willa’s oat milk healthy?

With Willa’s, you know you are getting the full whole grain oats with the bran and germ included , which are packed with all of the oats’ nutritional, prebiotic , and fiber benefits. They’re also packed with vitamins and minerals. Oats provide a number of health benefits .Oats are associated with heart health, as well as gut health. Oat fiber may also help to prevent sharp rises in blood sugar and insulin levels, which means they make you feel more satisfied and satiated after a meal. What’s more, oats are rich in antioxidants, especially avenanthramide. This antioxidant has been linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer and lower blood pressure . As a great source of prebiotics or prebiotic fiber , oats feed the probiotics or good bacteria in our gut microbiome, which also has positive benefits for mental health.

What does it mean to be a barista blend milk?

Our barista blend is formulated to steam like a dream and produce lovely latte art for espresso drinks. That being said, it still tastes delicious on its own or in place of non-barista oat milks.

What else can you make with Willa’s Barista Oat Milk?

Willa’s Barista Oat Milk tastes great in smoothies, chocolate pudding ,hot chocolate, matcha tea, or overcereal orgranola.

Can you heat Willa’s oat milk in microwave?

You can. With some oat milks, you might find they separate, clump, and coagulate. But with Willa’s you shouldn’t see separation, unless it’s been sitting out for awhile. In that case, give it a stir.

Where to get Willa’s oat milk?

Currently, we’re offering pre-orders via our site. If you are interested in ordering through us via a distributor, please email info@willaskitchen.com.