Calories in Rice Milk: Nutritional facts for Rice Milk Types

A 100g serving of unsweetened rice milk contains 47 calories, while a 100g serving of organic whole plant-based rice milk provides 71 calories. A 100g serving of fresh raw rice milk supplies 58 calories.

One liter (1000g) of unsweetened rice milk contains 470 calories, while one liter (1000g) of organic whole plant-based rice milk provides 710 calories. One liter (1000g) of fresh raw rice milk supplies 580 calories.

A single-serve carton of unsweetened rice milk (240g or 8oz) contains 113 calories, while a carton of organic whole plant-based rice milk (240g or 8oz) provides 170 calories. Market formulations yield distinct caloric figures, as a cup of Better Than Milk Rice Milk (240ml) contains 150 calories. A serving of Okf Rice Milk (6 fl oz) provides 72 calories, whereas a portion of Macro Rice Milk (100ml) supplies 55 calories.

Rice milk is a hypoallergenic beverage suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance, soy allergies, or nut sensitivities. Rice milk provides a rapid source of energy due to the high carbohydrate content derived from the natural starch of the grain. 

• Supports Hypoallergenic Diets: The beverage lacks common allergens such as casein, whey, and nut proteins, making the liquid safe for sensitive immune systems. A study by Vanga, S. K., & Raghavan, V. (2018), "How well do plant based alternatives fare nutritionally compared to cow’s milk?," confirmed that rice milk serves as the most viable alternative for patients with multiple food allergies due to the absence of reactive proteins.
• Provides Rapid Energy: The breakdown of rice starch yields simple sugars that the body absorbs quickly for immediate metabolic fuel. Research by Atkinson, F. S., et al. (2008), "International tables of glycemic index and glycemic load values: 2008," established that rice-based beverages possess a high glycemic index, ensuring efficient glycogen replenishment for athletes post-exercise.
• Enhances Bone Strength: Manufacturers fortify the liquid with calcium and Vitamin D to mimic the nutritional profile of dairy. A study by Shkembi, B., et al. (2021), " Calcium Absorption from Food Products: Food Matrix Effects," demonstrated that calcium-fortified plant beverages maintain bone mineral density effectively when consumed regularly.

Rice milk remains safe for most populations, yet specific nutritional drawbacks exist regarding sugar content and trace mineral contamination. Nutritionists recommend limiting intake to 240ml daily and choosing unsweetened soy milk as a higher-protein alternative to mitigate potential blood sugar spikes. The following list details specific negative health implications.

• Contains Inorganic Arsenic: The rice plant naturally absorbs arsenic from soil and water, which concentrates in the grain and resulting milk. A study by Hojsak, I., et al. (2015), "Arsenic in rice: a cause for concern," advised that infants and young children should avoid exclusive consumption of rice drinks to prevent excessive exposure to this heavy metal.
• Elevates Blood Glucose: The beverage possesses a high glycemic load due to the enzymatic conversion of starches into sugars during processing. Research by Hu, E. A., et al. (2012), "White rice consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes: meta-analysis and systematic review," found that high intake of rapidly digested rice products correlates with an increased risk of insulin resistance.
• Lacks Protein Content: The liquid offers negligible protein compared to cow or soy milk, failing to support muscle repair independently. A study by Singhal, S., et al. (2017), "A Comparison of the Nutritional Value of Cow's Milk and Nondairy Beverages," noted that rice milk contains the lowest protein concentration among popular plant-based alternatives, necessitating dietary supplementation.

Yes, rice milk is good for health because the beverages provide a safe, digestible option for individuals with severe food allergies and offer fortified micronutrients supporting skeletal health. Digestive health benefits from the absence of lactose and allergenic proteins which prevents gastrointestinal distress as explored by Vanga, S. K., & Raghavan, V. (2018), "How well do plant based alternatives fare nutritionally compared to cow’s milk?." Cardiovascular function remains stable due to the naturally low fat and cholesterol-free profile of the grain as detailed in the study by Mäkinen, O. E., et al. (2016), "Foods for Special Dietary Needs: Non-dairy Plant-based Milk Substitutes and Fermented Dairy-type Products." Immune defense strengthens through the addition of Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D in commercial formulas as confirmed by the study from Abbaspour, N., et al. (2014), "Review on iron and its importance for human health."

Yes, rice milk is good for the stomach due to the hypoallergenic nature of the grain and the absence of fermentable sugars that cause bloating. The beverage ranks as a low-residue food, meaning the body digests the liquid almost entirely with minimal waste. Dietitians suggest a consumption rate of 240ml daily to avoid overloading the system with simple carbohydrates. A study by Misselwitz, B., et al. (2019), "Update on lactose malabsorption and intolerance," confirmed that lactose-free beverages like rice milk prevent the abdominal pain and diarrhea associated with dairy consumption. Research by Gibson, P. R., & Shepherd, S. J. (2010), "Evidence-based dietary management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms: The FODMAP approach," identified rice milk as a Low-FODMAP food suitable for managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Further evidence by Vanga, S. K., & Raghavan, V. (2018), "How well do plant based alternatives fare nutritionally compared to cow’s milk?," highlighted the high digestibility score of rice proteins, reducing the risk of gastric irritation.

Calorie levels change mainly due to added sweeteners and flavor components. Chocolate rice milk ranks highest per serving because added sugar offsets cocoa bitterness. Unsweetened rice milk sits at the lower end, though natural starch conversion results in a higher carbohydrate level than almond or hemp milk. Protein-enhanced options fall in the middle, offering extra macronutrients with a balanced calorie range.

No, rice milk is not a low-calorie alternative to regular milk when compared to skim or almond milk, as the beverage contains a high concentration of carbohydrates derived from the grain. A standard cup of unsweetened rice milk contains 113 calories, which exceeds the 83 calories found in non-fat dairy milk. The enzymatic hydrolysis process used to create the milk converts rice starch into sugar, resulting in a calorie density comparable to 2% cow's milk.

Yes, rice milk can be used in smoothies as a lightweight liquid base that adds natural sweetness without the thickness of yogurt or bananas. The high carbohydrate content aids in masking the bitterness of leafy greens like kale or spinach.

The concept of rice milk dates back centuries to the creation of Horchata in North Africa and Spain, though the original version utilized tiger nuts before evolving into the rice-based Horchata de Arroz in Mexico. Commercial rice milk as a dairy alternative emerged in the United States during the early 1980s. Robert Nissenbaum founded Rice Dream in California in 1982, pioneering the enzymatic process that creates the naturally sweet, shelf-stable beverage found in supermarkets today. The product gained widespread popularity in the 1990s as awareness of lactose intolerance and soy allergies increased, establishing the liquid as a staple in the growing plant-based market.