Calories in Soy Milk: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Soy milk is a plant-based milk alternative made from whole soybeans or soy protein isolate, prized for its protein content that rivals cow's milk. One cup of unsweetened soy milk provides approximately 7 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, and is typically fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. It is the most protein-rich of all common plant milks and is widely used by those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply prefer a dairy-free option.

Calories by serving size:

Most commercial soy milks are fortified to match or exceed the calcium and vitamin D levels found in cow's milk. Soy milk also naturally contains isoflavones, plant compounds that have been studied for their potential cardiovascular and bone-health benefits, though their effects can vary between individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does soy milk compare to cow's milk?

Unsweetened soy milk has fewer calories than whole cow's milk (80 vs 150 kcal per cup) and comparable protein (7 g vs 8 g), making it the closest plant-based match to dairy in terms of protein content. Cow's milk naturally contains more calcium, but fortified soy milk typically matches it at around 300 mg per cup. Soy milk is lower in saturated fat and contains no cholesterol, while cow's milk provides more vitamin B12 and naturally occurring vitamin D.

How does soy milk compare to almond milk and oat milk?

Soy milk has significantly more protein than almond milk (7 g vs 1 g per cup) and more than oat milk (7 g vs 3 g per cup), making it the best plant milk for protein. Almond milk is the lowest in calories at about 30 to 40 kcal per cup unsweetened, while oat milk is the highest at about 120 kcal. For those prioritizing protein intake on a dairy-free diet, soy milk is generally the strongest choice among plant milks.

How much protein is in soy milk?

One cup of unsweetened soy milk provides approximately 7 grams of complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids in adequate proportions. This is notably higher than any other widely available plant milk and is nearly equal to the 8 grams found in a cup of cow's milk. This makes soy milk particularly valuable for vegans, children, and anyone relying on plant-based sources for their protein needs.

Is soy milk healthy?

Soy milk is considered a healthy beverage by most nutrition experts and is the only plant milk recommended by the USDA Dietary Guidelines as a nutritional equivalent to dairy milk. It provides high-quality protein, healthy unsaturated fats, and is typically fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Research has consistently shown that moderate soy consumption is safe and may offer benefits for heart health, though individuals with soy allergies should obviously avoid it.

What is the difference between sweetened and unsweetened soy milk?

Unsweetened soy milk contains about 80 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrates per cup, while sweetened versions typically have 110 calories and 12 grams of carbohydrates due to added sugars. The additional 8 grams of sugar in sweetened soy milk is comparable to about two teaspoons of table sugar. For those watching their sugar intake or managing blood sugar levels, unsweetened soy milk is the better choice, as it retains all the protein and nutrient benefits without the added calories.