Oat milk is a beverage commonly adored by vegans, the lactose intolerant and milk-haters alike. In recent years, oat milk has quickly risen in popularity as a dairy milk alternative that offers a multitude of benefits. 

For one, this particular dairy milk alternative happens to be nut-free, unlike its close competitor, almond milk. Consumers with nut or soy allergies can safely drink oat milk without any concerns about allergens. 

Oat milk also offers a creamier texture and more naturally sweet taste than many other dairy milk alternatives, pushing it to the forefront of non-dairy milks. 

Naturally, as consumers began favoring oat milk over other alternatives, it became more readily available and many popular brands released their own oat milk. Each brand of oat milk differs a little in texture, taste and, most importantly, price. 

As someone who passionately despises dairy milk and cherishes grocery shopping, I deem myself qualified to provide you with the five best oat milks, ranked by taste and price.

5. Planet Oat

Planet Oat is a classic choice that many people tend to favor for its low price and accessibility. Ringing in at $3.49 for a 52 oz. carton at Woodman’s Market, this brand is one of the best deals you can find. As for its taste, I rate Planet Oat a solid 7/10,

4. Elmhurst

Elmhurst oat milk is set apart from many brands by its steep price. A small 32 oz. carton of this oat milk will run you $6.99 at Woodman’s Market. I rate the taste of this oat milk an 8/10, though the fact that it costs nearly $7 makes it a rare buy for me.

3. Oatly

Oatly is a slightly less expensive option that will cost $5.69 for a 64 oz. carton at Target. Though this brand is a little more costly than Planet Oat, it boasts a smoother consistency and a nicer texture. I rate its taste a 10/10.

2. Chobani

This particular brand of oat milk rings in at a reasonable $4.79 for a 52 oz. carton at Target. With a creamy and smooth consistency, I rate its taste a 9/10. This brand of oat milk also features a carton with a lovely design that I could stare at for hours.

1.Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s non-dairy oat beverage is the all-around winner for its sensible price and superb taste. At $2.49 for 32 oz., this oat milk is less than half the price of Elmhurst’s oat milk, with nearly identical ingredients. 

With a smooth texture and naturally sweet taste, I rate it a 9/10 for taste. This oat milk is also shelf stable until opened, so you can easily stock up on a few cartons to have it on hand at all times. 

As a self-proclaimed oat milk connoisseur, I strive to provide the masses with accurate and helpful information about oat milk. Consider this ranking the next time you’re at the grocery store and find yourself teary-eyed while making difficult decisions in the dairy milk alternatives aisle. 

O’Brien can be reached at [email protected].