Beverages

Beverages, rice milk, unsweetened

FDC 171942fl oz (approximate weight, 1 serving) (240 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 57 · +28 vs Beverages median

Unsweetened rice milk earns a Nutrient Density Score of 57 of 100, a Fair band placing it 11th of 60 beverages, well above the category's median score of 29. It has no single standout nutrient at a notable percent of daily value; its appeal is more about what it lacks, with carbohydrate as the leading macronutrient in a light 47 calories per 100 g.

Rice milk is used the way dairy milk is, poured over cereal, stirred into coffee, or drunk on its own by anyone avoiding dairy or nuts. It contributes very little protein per serving, so drinkers relying on it as a milk substitute in cooking may want to pair it with other protein sources across the day.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around beverages, rice milk, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 0.3 g · 2%Carb 9.2 g · 79%Fat 1 g · 19%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories47 kcal2%
Total fat0.97 g1%
Saturated fat0 g0%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium39 mg2%
Carbohydrate9.2 g3%
Dietary fiber0.3 g1%
Sugars5.3 g
Protein0.28 g1%
Potassium27 mg1%
Calcium118 mg9%
Iron0.2 mg1%
Magnesium11 mg3%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A63 µg7%
Vitamin E0.47 mg3%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 171942

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the beverages median

Nutrient density57 vs 29 median
Protein / 100 g0.3 vs 0.2 median
Fiber / 100 g0.3 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g39 vs 12 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Beverages, Cranberry juice cocktailDensity 59 vs 57Beverages, Protein powder soy basedDensity 69 vs 57Cranberry juice cocktail, bottledDensity 73 vs 57

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Unsweetened rice milk is a thin, mildly sweet, dairy-free liquid made from milled rice and water, used the way cow's milk is used: poured over cereal, stirred into coffee or tea, blended into smoothies, or used as the liquid in pancake batter and other baked goods. It has a naturally thinner body than dairy milk or many nut milks, which can make cereal feel a little more watery, and it doesn't froth well for lattes the way dairy or oat milk does.

Shake well before pouring, since rice starch can settle at the bottom of the carton, and once opened keep it refrigerated and use it within about a week like any perishable milk alternative. At just 47 calories per 100 grams (240 grams to a cup serving) it's a low-calorie pour for cereal or coffee, and its 39 milligrams of sodium per 100 grams keeps it on the low-sodium side of milk alternatives. With only 0.28 grams of protein per 100 grams, it won't contribute meaningfully to protein intake the way soy or dairy milk does, so it's best treated as a mild, low-calorie liquid rather than a protein source.

Frequently asked questions about beverages, rice milk

How many calories are in unsweetened rice milk?

It's light at 47 calories per 100 grams, or about 240 grams to a cup serving.

Is rice milk a good source of protein?

No, it's very low in protein at just 0.28 grams per 100 grams, far less than dairy or soy milk.

How should rice milk be used and stored?

Shake before pouring since rice starch can settle, refrigerate after opening, and use it the same way as dairy milk over cereal or in coffee.

View the USDA source record