Non-dairy creamer powder is a popular coffee creamer substitute for those who cannot or choose not to consume dairy products. But how many calories does non-dairy creamer powder contain? The answer depends on the specific brand and type of non-dairy creamer powder.
What is Non-Dairy Creamer Powder?
Non-dairy creamer powder is made from vegetable oils, usually coconut, palm or soybean oil. It may also contain sweeteners, emulsifiers, sodium caseinate (a milk derivative), and flavors. Non-dairy creamer comes in liquid and powder forms, with the powder being more popular and having a longer shelf life.
There are two main types of non-dairy creamer powder:
- Original or plain non-dairy creamer powder – This contains no sweeteners and is used to replicate the taste and texture of dairy cream.
- Flavored non-dairy creamer powder – This contains added sugars and flavors like French vanilla, hazelnut, or Irish creme.
Non-dairy creamer powder dissolves easily in hot coffee or tea to create a creamy texture and flavor. It does not curdle like dairy milk or cream. People choose non-dairy creamer powder for different reasons, including lactose intolerance, vegan or vegetarian diets, avoiding cholesterol, and preference for the taste.
Calories in Non-Dairy Creamer Powder
The number of calories in non-dairy creamer powder varies by brand and type. But in general:
- Plain or original non-dairy creamer powder contains about 20-40 calories per tablespoon (7-12 grams).
- Flavored or sweetened non-dairy creamer powder contains about 45-60 calories per tablespoon (7-12 grams).
To compare, one tablespoon of heavy whipping cream contains about 50 calories while a tablespoon of half and half contains 20 calories. So non-dairy creamers fall within the range of dairy creamers for calories per tablespoon.
Calories Per Serving by Brand
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the calories in some popular brands of non-dairy creamer powder per typical serving size:
| Brand | Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Mate Original | 1 tbsp (7g) | 25 |
| Coffee Mate French Vanilla | 1 tbsp (7g) | 45 |
| Nestle Coffee Mate Natural Bliss | 1 tbsp (7g) | 35 |
| So Delicious Coconut Milk Creamer | 1 tbsp (9g) | 45 |
| Nutpods Unsweetened | 1 tbsp (11g) | 25 |
| Califia Farms Better Half | 1 tbsp (7g) | 25 |
As you can see, calories range from 25-45 per tablespoon depending on the brand. Flavored creamers tend to be higher in calories than original or plain.
Factors Affecting Calories
Several factors impact the calorie content in non-dairy creamer powder:
Added Sugars
Non-dairy creamers that contain added sugars like corn syrup, sucrose, maltodextrin, or cane sugar tend to be higher in calories. Added sugars increase the carbohydrate and calorie density.
Fat Content
Non-dairy creamers are mainly made from vegetable oils. A higher fat content from these oils results in more calories per serving. Powders made with coconut cream or milk tend to be higher in fat and calories than ones made with soy or almond milk.
Emulsifiers
Emulsifiers like mono- and diglycerides help maintain a smooth, creamy texture. But they add small amounts of fat and calories too.
Mixing Ratio
The mixing directions vary between brands. Some recommend more powder per ounce of coffee than others. Using heaping spoonfuls or multiple spoons per cup will increase calories compared to a standard 1 tablespoon serving.
Serving Size
Pay attention to the listed serving size, which is not always 1 tablespoon. The calories are based on the serving size, so make sure yours matches what is listed.
Type of Creamer
As mentioned earlier, flavored and sweetened non-dairy creamers contain more calories than plain or original versions. French vanilla, hazelnut, and other flavors have added sugars that increase calories.
Comparing Powder vs Liquid Creamers
How do the calories in non-dairy creamer powders compare to liquid non-dairy creamers?
In general, powders are lower in calories density than liquid creamers. Powders contain less water and are more concentrated.
For example, one tablespoon of liquid Coffee Mate Original has 20 calories compared to 25 calories for the powder. The liquid French Vanilla has 30 calories per tablespoon versus 45 calories for the powder.
However, liquid non-dairy creamers are usually measured in fluid ounces rather than tablespoons. So you may end up using more liquid creamer overall, which increases the calories.
High vs Low Calorie Options
Within non-dairy creamer powders, some options are higher and lower in calories:
Higher Calorie Options
- Coffee Mate Liquid Creamer
- International Delight Creamer
- So Delicious Coconut Milk Creamer
- Natural Bliss Creamer
- Flavored non-dairy creamers
Lower Calorie Options
- Nutpods
- Califia Farms Better Half
- Plain or original non-dairy creamers
- Silk Almond Milk Creamer
- Coconut Cloud Creamer
Sticking to plain, unsweetened varieties or using less powder than recommended can also reduce the calories.
Reduced-Calorie Powdered Creamers
Some brands offer reduced-calorie or light versions of their powdered creamers. These provide the flavor and creamy texture with fewer calories per serving. Common ways calories are reduced include:
- Using low-calorie sweeteners like sucralose or stevia instead of sugar
- Adding skim milk powder
- Using less vegetable oil
- Including gums like guar gum to mimic the mouthfeel of fats
- Adding maltodextrin, a starch that provides thickness with minimal calories
Make sure to compare nutrition labels, as reduced-calorie creamers may still have more calories than plain varieties.
Use Less Powder to Reduce Calories
One of the easiest ways to take in fewer calories from non-dairy creamer powder is to use less per serving. Here are some tips:
- Measure precisely with measuring spoons instead of pouring from container.
- Use 3/4 tablespoon instead of a full tablespoon per cup.
- Mix powder with hot water first, then add to coffee to thin it out.
- Add milk or milk alternative like almond milk to dilute the creamer more.
- Gradually reduce amount of powder used over time to adjust tastebuds.
If you typically use 2-3 tablespoons per cup, cutting back to 1 tablespoon or less can make a significant calorie dent over time.
Nondairy vs Dairy Creamers
How do the calories in non-dairy creamer powders compare to dairy-based powdered creamers?
Non-dairy creamers are generally lower in calories than true dairy creamer powders. For example:
- 1 tablespoon dairy coffee creamer powder: ~50 calories
- 1 tablespoon non-dairy creamer powder: 20-45 calories
However, some creamer powders labeled as “non-dairy” actually contain dairy ingredients like milk proteins. Always check the ingredient label if avoiding dairy.
Pure dairy-free creamers made from vegetable oils are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than dairy-based powders. But some dairy powders are now made with skim milk, which reduces the calories.
Should You Avoid Non-Dairy Creamer Powder?
While non-dairy creamer powders are processed and not the most natural choice, they can fit into a healthy diet in moderation. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- Provide creamy texture and taste without dairy allergens
- Lower in calories than most dairy creamers
- Contain no cholesterol
- Allow people with lactose intolerance to enjoy creamy coffee and tea
- Convenient, tasty option for vegetarians, vegans, or those limiting dairy
Cons
- Highly processed and contain additives
- Added sugars in flavored varieties
- Contain vegetable oils high in omega-6 fatty acids
- Not compatible with very low-carb or keto diets due to carb content
- Powdered version has less nutrition than whole milk or cream
Enjoy non-dairy creamer powder in moderation as an occasional treat or addition to coffee. Limit added sugars and flavors by choosing plain varieties. Dilute with milk or water to reduce calorie density. And measure carefully to keep servings and calories controlled.
The Bottom Line
So how many calories are in non-dairy creamer powder? The answer depends on the brand and type. Plain creamers range from 20-40 calories per tablespoon while flavored and sweetened versions are 45-60 calories. Compare nutrition labels and adjust serving sizes to keep calories in check.
