We Asked 3 Dietitian’s Their Favorite Coffee Creamer

We Asked 3 Dietitian’s Their Favorite Coffee Creamer

  • Nutritionists love the simple ingredients with no artificial sweeteners or fillers.
  • Each serving contains only 3 grams of added sugar and contains no saturated fat.
  • It is made from almond milk and offers a creamy texture and delicious taste.

With countless coffee creamers on the shelves—from oat to coconut and every flavor imaginable—deciding on a healthy option can be overwhelming. To help you choose, we asked nutritionists which option stands out from the rest. In unison, they all pointed out the organic vanilla almond creamer from Califia Farms.

For those of us who don’t like drinking black coffee, there are a few starting points when choosing a coffee creamer. April Milevski, MS, RDN says: “I always start with the list of ingredients. Short, recognizable ingredients are best, without unnecessary additives. Then I check the added sugar content.” Many milk creamers on the market rely on additives to stay smooth and durable. However, some studies have shown that ingredients like carrageenan, a thickener derived from seaweed, can negatively impact gut health. Other research has shown that additives like titanium dioxide may be linked to inflammation. However, these results come from animal studies, so further research is needed to clarify their results. A splash of these additives here and there might not make much of a difference, but for daily coffee drinkers (especially those who pour liberally), these additional ingredients can add up over time.

Here’s why this choice stands out from the rest and what makes it a smart addition to your morning cup.

Califia Farms Organic Vanilla Almond Coffee Creamer Nutrition

One of the many reasons why the Califia Farms Organic Vanilla Almond Creamer is a top choice is its short list of ingredients, which include organic almond milk (water, organic almonds), organic cane sugar, baking powder, and natural organic flavoring. Each serving contains just 3 grams of added sugar, compared to many other creamers that can contain double or triple the amount. To put this in perspective, the American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 6 teaspoons (about 25 grams) of added sugar per day for women and 9 teaspoons (about 36 grams) per day for men. Here are the nutritional information for a 1-tablespoon serving of Califia Farms Organic Vanilla Almond Coffee Creamer:

  • Calories: 20
  • Carbohydrates: 3 grams (g)
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Total sugar: 3g
  • Added sugar: 3g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Total fat: 0g
  • Saturated fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 10 mg

Why nutritionists love this coffee creamer

Minimal added sugar

Most of us start our morning with breakfast and a cup of coffee. Ideally, our first meal is balanced and contains protein and fiber to ensure stable energy levels and prevent early afternoon accidents. That first sip of coffee often sets the tone for the day, and starting with less added sugar can make it easier to make healthier choices at your next meal. Alyssa Smolen, MS, RD says, “Creamers can add extra fat and calories to your morning drink. Try to stay under 20% of the recommended daily intake of added sugars.”

Less fat

Unlike many coffee creamers that are high in dietary fat, Califia Farms Organic Vanilla Almond Coffee Creamer does away with it completely. Gila Singer, MS, RD, CSG, CDN, FAND notes, “It contains no dietary fats while still providing the flavor and creaminess you desire.” Because it’s made from almond milk, Califia Farms offers a plant-based alternative that doesn’t rely on the same fats or additives commonly used to thicken dairy creams. This also means it’s free of saturated fats, making it a heart-healthy choice to start your morning. Smolen notes, “This creamer contains less than 20% of the recommended daily intake of added sugars and 7% of the recommended daily intake of saturated fat. It is a great choice for a healthy daily drink.”

No artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners, flavors and fillers can make other coffee creamers last longer, but they can also have an impact on our bodies. Milevski explains, “I recommend limiting artificial sweeteners as they can affect gut health, glucose response, and cravings for sweet foods.” Some research shows that while artificial sweeteners can often be used as a low-calorie replacement for patients with diseases such as diabetes and obesity, their long-term health effects may be more complex. This study links high consumption of artificial sweeteners to an increased risk of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease, highlighting why it’s worth being careful about how much you consume.

Additionally, other additives such as gums and fillers can add creaminess but can be difficult to digest in large quantities. Califia Farms Organic Vanilla Almond Creamer completely eliminates these additives and uses a short list of simple ingredients that keep your coffee smooth and flavorful without any extras.

Our expert opinion

Coffee is often the first thing we reach for in the morning, and the creamer we choose can do more than just shape the taste of our cup. Many coffee creamers contain added sugar, saturated fats, and artificial sweeteners, which can have long-term negative effects on your health. Califia Farms’ Organic Vanilla Almond Coffee Creamer takes a different approach but still places emphasis on flavor. With an almond milk base and simple, recognizable ingredients, it delivers a creamy, satisfying texture without compromising on nutrition.