If we analyze it, until recently coffee shops did not have non-dairy alternatives. Fortunately, things have changed and most establishments have vegetable drinks (milks). However, one of them has become a fundamental ingredient for certain preparations, and that is: The oat drink. This product is leading the coffee industry.
According to reports, in 2017 only 10 coffee shops in the United States included oat milk or drinks as a non-dairy product. Specifically the brand Oatly. In 2019, the numbers have skyrocketed and there were already 3,500 coffee shops throughout the country, this being quite a boom between consumers and baristas.
But what made it so popular? Why do customers prefer it? How does he behave with coffee? We will answer these and other questions throughout this article, with the help of the team of specialists at Incapto Coffee. So, we invite you to continue reading and learn more about this incredible product.
oat drink What is it and how is it produced?
It is one of the best alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or simply lead a vegan lifestyle. The oat drink, is characterized by its balanced, smooth flavor with a sweet touch.
If we talk about its commercial production, this involves the harvest and transportation of the oats to the place where it will be processed. Once this process is finished, it is stored in huge sterilized silos. Subsequently, the oats are added with water and then beaten or mixed until a thick liquid consistency is achieved.
They add enzymes to this mixture, which will accelerate the elimination of carbohydrates in the oats. This helps sweeten the product in a much more natural way.
Once the previous process is completed, the mixture is filtered to remove the remains of any hard fiber, in order to obtain a softer and thicker liquid. What would be the real oat drink. It is possible to add some flavors or reinforce with vitamins and minerals, to increase its nutritional value.
Finally, it is pasteurized, which means that it will have to be Subtly raise the temperature of the drink. What function does this have? Well, it will guarantee that the product is safe and at the same time, extends its useful life. Regarding storage, the liquid is placed in sterilized silos before being packaged and offered to the public.
How does its consumption become popular?
As incredible as it may seem, the oat drink has already been on the market for 20 years. The first to be marketed were Pacific Foods in the United States in 1996. And Oatly in the 90s in Sweden. If we know what you are wondering: Why did she become so famous many years later? Specialists attribute it to the new consumer behavior over the last decades, as well as rise of veganism.
Both aspects are related to the popularity not only of the oat drink, but also other beverages of plant origin. It is no secret that the vegan lifestyle has spread throughout the world. Its objectives are based on promoting environmental care and a healthy lifestyle. In the UK, the vegan community had significant growth after going from 150,000 to 540,000. This is undoubtedly a clear example that most people want to be healthier and responsible consumers, which is why dairy alternatives are part of this change.
In summary, one of the most notable points that gives a clearer vision of the increase in consumption of oat drink, is due to awareness regarding environmental conflicts. All of this, without overlooking the stimulation of sustainable consumption.
The figures are increasingly satisfactory
The statistics are quite accurate and positively reflect the consumption of the oat drink. Between 2017 and 2019 it increased by 71% in the United Kingdom. While in the United States, profits from the sale of this drink reached $29 million during 2019.
In 2020, large chains such as Peet's Coffee, Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks shared with the world that they began to include oat drink in their respective menus.
How does the oat drink with coffee?
If you love a good cup of coffee, especially ones that are very foamy, but you lead a vegan lifestyle or are dairy intolerant. You don't have to worry, since you can continue enjoying a good cappuccino or latte, thanks to the oat drink, one of the best alternatives these days.
It turns out that the oat drink It acts in a similar way as cow does with coffee. Because it is able to balance and give it that sweet touch, working wonderfully with those fruity and complex coffees.
Thanks to its similarities with the cow's milk, this drink combines perfectly with others offered in coffee shops. For example, Oatly and Minor Figures launched canned milk-based drinks, ideal for making nitrogen lattes, chai lattes, iced mochas, to name a few.
Now, the mixtures of oat drink for baristas typically work for cream and pour latte art.
How to use it correctly?
Those oat drinks that are prepared for professional use. That is to say, in coffee shops (the packaging indicates that they are a collection for baristas) it is usually creamed the same as cow's milk, and they can even make incredible art lattes.
The manager of Joe Coffee Company, Eric Grimm, explains that the steam wand can be placed inside the jug, using the same position as when texturing cow's milk. In fact, the same steam temperature can be applied, which is approximately 55-65°C / 131-149°F. It should be noted that oat drink requires more air than regular milk, to stabilize the foam level as much as possible.
This will achieve a softer texture, which will help maintain a better shape for longer.
Attention, it is extremely important that you let it rest for about 40 seconds, before proceeding to pour it. This will make the texture of the drink much more balanced.
Either because you want to experiment by trying a cappuccino with oat milk or you simply feel the need to change your lifestyle for a healthier one. And of course, for the conservation of the planet. This vegetable drink alternative is one of the most successful options for professionals in the field. In Incapto Coffee, we have a cappuccino maker ideal for heating oatmeal drink or any other, at a much lower temperature, being one of the most successful accessories for this type of preparations.
On the other hand, when you go to the nearest coffee shop, don't forget to ask for oatmeal drink to be included in your coffee. So that you can make a comparison and determine which one best suits your preferences.
SourceOat Milk: Why is it so popular in coffee shops?