We haven’t seen much from the iconic Dream brand in quite a while. But they have been busy working on a makeover of their Rice Dream line and creating a new-to-market milk beverage. Dream Whole Ricemilk is one of the first dairy-free “whole milk” alternatives, and it is the first rice-based one. It’s also free of top allergens, added proteins, and coconut!
Dream Whole Ricemilk expands a New Category of Dairy-Free ‘Milks’
There are very few whole milk alternatives available, and they were primarily introduced within the past year – like Silk Nextmilk and So Delicious Wondermilk. So I’m going to cover a bit more detail on Dream Whole Ricemilk. We’ll start with the ingredients, followed by FAQs that I’m anticipating.
“Whole Milk“
Ingredients: water, organic hydrolyzed rice, organic (non-GMO) canola oil, tricalcium phosphate, organic locust bean gum, sea salt, vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol), vitamin A palmitate, vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin), vitamin B2 (riboflavin).
Nutrition (per 1 cup): 170 calories, 8g fat, 25g carbs, 1g fiber, 11g sugars (includes 11g added sugars), 0g protein. Fortified to achieve the following RDA percentages: 25% calcium, 25% vitamin D, 15% vitamin A, 35% riboflavin, 45% vitamin B12.*
How Does Dream Whole Ricemilk Compare to Whole Dairy Milk?
The consistency Dream Whole Ricemilk has that rich mouthfeel, but it seems more drinkable and less unctuous than higher fat dairy milk. It also tastes sweeter. Nevertheless, it contains about the same amount of fat and sugar, and rivals whole dairy milk in several vitamins and minerals. That includes calcium, vitamin D, and higher levels of vitamins B2 and B12. If you are looking for fortification, then this could be your new favorite! However, it is a bit higher in carbohydrates and calories than whole milk. And since it doesn’t contain any added proteins, Dream Whole Ricemilk is not a good source of protein.
It’s Not Sweetened. Why Does Dream Whole Ricemilk have Added Sugars?
Grains, like oats and rice, are carbohydrates that our bodies break down into simple sugars. If you simply blend the cooked grains, those carbohydrates create liquid that is slimy or a bit sludgy. To avoid this, companies use processes that break down the carbohydrates into simple sugars. This gives them a more seamless consistency. But since the rice, in this case, is now in sugar form before it is consumed, the FDA requires the company to list those “natural” sugars as added sugars.
Is Dream Whole Ricemilk Sweet?
Yes, it is notably sweet. I wouldn’t call it overly sweet, but it’s too sweet for using in savory dishes, in my opinion.
What is Dream Whole Rice Milk Good For?
I can guarantee many of you will like it straight up. Dream Whole Ricemilk is smooth, creamy, and has a pleasant sweetness to it. It’s also great in cereal, oatmeal, and smoothies. And it should perform very well in baking and sweeter cooking applications, like custard. I expect that the fat and flavor will enrich the taste and texture of your breads, muffins, and puddings.
Does it Make a Good Creamer?
It does not. Dream Whole Ricemilk became thin and separated when poured into hot tea, and I imagine it will do the same in more acidic coffee.
Why Do They Use Oil?
To create natural creaminess that’s drinkable, you need some fat. Dream Whole Ricemilk is made without any top allergen ingredients and is also coconut-free and vegan. There aren’t a lot of notable fat sources when you remove animal products, tree nuts, coconut, and soy from the equation. Yes, seeds are an option, but seed milk has a very pronounced flavor. It doesn’t usually do as well on the market. Oil creates a creamy emulsion without need for any top allergens and without any pronounced flavors.
I See 2% in the Photo Below. Is that Available Too?
We aren’t sure if the 2% is simply a new look for any of their classic Rice Dream varieties. That package is not yet available, but it should also be landing in stores!
More Facts on Dream Whole Ricemilk
- Price: $4.29 per 32-ounce carton
- Availability: Dream Whole Ricemilk is shelf-stable, and sold at Whole Foods, New Seasons, Haggen, Shop Rite, Price Rite, and on Amazon.
- Certifications: Dream Whole Ricemilk is Certified Organic, Certified Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Verified, Certified Kosher Parve.
- Dietary Notes: By ingredients, Dream Whole Ricemilk is dairy-free / non-dairy, egg-free, gluten-free, nut-free, peanut-free, soy-free, vegan, and vegetarian.*
- For More Product Information: Visit the Dream website at www.dreamplantbased.com.
*Always read the ingredient and nutrition statement prior to consumption. Ingredients, processes, and labeling are subject to change at any time for any company or product. Contact the company to discuss their manufacturing processes if potential allergen cross-contamination is an issue for you. No food product can be guaranteed “safe” for every individual’s needs. You should never rely on ingredient and allergen statements alone if dealing with a severe food allergy.
