We're nuts about almond milk as a calcium-rich and low calorie alternative to dairy #CarryGobySeanKellz #FutureGroupNG via @i_amreginaldjr

SALES of this nutritious drink are booming as more people look for alternatives to dairy. Angela Dowden examines its popularity

Sales of almond milk has skyrocketed by 400 per cent last year due to its health benefits [GETTY]

Almonds have long been a super-food. Now almond milk, made from almonds and water, is the hot new alternative to dairy milk.
Sales soared 400 per cent in Waitrose last year and in America almond has already overtaken soya in the alternative milk market.
TV chef Gordon Ramsay is a fan and foodies rate almond milk for its subtle, nutty taste. The drink is also lactose-free for those with an intolerance.
Here are five reasons to give it a try and five ideas for how to enjoy it.
Low calorie:
At just 27 calories per 200ml glass (for the Almond Breeze unsweetened brand) almond milk has a surprising 60 per cent fewer calories than skimmed dairy milk making it a great choice for anyone watching their weight.
Heart-friendly:
Almonds are naturally high in unsaturated fats and low in the saturated kind which make it a good option for keeping cholesterol levels in check.
Contains vitamin E:
One glass of almond milk provides 1mg of this important vitamin which is a third of the NHS recommended daily intake for women. Vitamin E helps protect cells from damage and is important for the immune system.
Rich in calcium:
The amount in almond milk is on a par with the level in cow’s milk so you can switch to the almond alternative knowing that you will still get the same bone benefits as standard milk. Don’t forget though that almond milk is lower in protein.
Eco-friendly:
Meat and dairy products account for around half the food-generated greenhouse gas emissions globally and between 10 and 18 per cent of human-created emissions overall. Almond milk is a more planet-friendly and sustainable alternative.

Five ways to use it:

1. Combine 200g pudding rice, three tablespoons of sugar, a pinch of salt and 150ml almond milk to make almond rice pudding. Place on the hob at low heat, stirring until the fluid is absorbed.
Gradually add 800ml more of almond milk, stirring and cooking until thick (about 20 minutes). Before serving stir in a final 150ml almond milk.
Serve cold or warm topped with cherry jam as a treat.
2. Make a morning smoothie with 150ml vanilla-flavoured almond milk, 100g frozen berries, a quarter of a banana and quarter of a mango. Blend until smooth and serve.
3. Make a delicious vegetable side dish by folding wilted spinach and parmesan into an almond milk béchamel sauce.
4. Add to creamy passanda and korma curries instead of cream or coconut milk to keep down the saturated-fat content.
5. Make porridge with it and add a few chopped almonds on top.
For more recipe ideas visit bluediamondalmonds.co.uk