As I’ve delved deeper into my Paleo lifestyle, I’ve found myself consuming more and more coconut milk. There are quite a few different brands available, each varying in ingredients and cost. This post will guide you through the main brands available, where to get them, and most importantly – which is the best coconut milk in Australia! If you find any other brands, please send me the details so I can include them.
Why Fewer Ingredients Are Better
When it comes to choosing coconut milk, simplicity is key. Products with fewer ingredients tend to be less processed and more natural. This aligns perfectly with the Paleo philosophy of eating whole, unprocessed foods. Avoiding added sweeteners, emulsifiers, stabilisers, and thickeners ensures you’re consuming a product closer to its natural state. Fewer ingredients also mean a lower chance of ingesting potential allergens or additives that could disrupt digestion or cause inflammation.
Tips for Choosing Coconut Milk
Avoid the “light” and “reduced fat” versions and opt for brands with the simplest ingredients. Make sure there are no added sweeteners. I always try to go for the Ayam brand (I think this is the best coconut milk in Australia) as the label shows it contains just coconut and water! You can also use coconut cream in much the same way. It is essentially the same as coconut milk – just without as much water, making it a lot thicker. You can always water it down yourself.
Prices can vary significantly, so I tend to stock up when there’s an offer on.
Brand Analysis: Best to Worst
Here's a summary from best to worst based on the purity and simplicity of ingredients – with the best coconut milk in Australia at the top – and the worst at the bottom:
| Brand | Liquids | Coconut Derivatives | Emulsifiers | Stabilisers and Thickeners | Salts and Minerals | Additives & Other Ingredients |
| Ayam Pure Coconut Cream | x | Coconut Kernel Extract (100%) | x | x | x | x |
| Ayam Regular Coconut Cream | Water | Coconut Kernel Extract (100%) | x | x | x | x |
| Ayam Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Kernel Extract (89%) | x | x | x | x |
| Ayam Premium Light Coconut Cream | x | Coconut Kernel Extract (74%) | x | x | x | x |
| Ayam Coconut Milk Light | Water | Coconut Kernel Extract (74%) | x | x | x | x |
| Ayam Coconut Milk Tetra Hedron | Water | Coconut Kernel Extract (63%) | x | x | x | x |
| Coles Asia Premium Thai Coconut Cream | Water | Coconut Extract (98%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Coles Asia Premium Thai Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Extract (82%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Essentials Coconut Cream | x | Coconut Extract (76%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Coles Organic Coconut Milk | Water | Organic Coconut Extract (74%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Ayam Coconut Cream Tetra Edge | Water | Coconut Kernel Extract (67%), Coconut Water (32%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Macro Organic Light Coconut Cream | Water | Organic Coconut Extract (66%) | x | Organic Guar Gum | x | x |
| TCC Premium Coconut Cream | Water | Coconut Extract (65%) | 435 | 466 | x | x |
| Macro Organic Light Coconut Milk | Water | Organic Coconut Extract (62%) | x | Organic Guar Gum | x | x |
| Coles Light Coconut Cream | Water | Coconut Extract (62%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Coles Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Milk (50%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Essentials Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Extract (50%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Aldi Just Organic Coconut Milk | Water | Organic Coconut Extract (44%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Coles Light Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Extract (40%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Mr Chen's Premium Thai Coconut Cream | Water | Coconut Extract (90.91%) | x | 412 | x | x |
| Coles Organic Coconut Cream | Water | Organic Coconut Extract (82%) | x | Guar Gum | x | x |
| Ayam Coconut Milk Powder | x | Coconut Milk Solids (79%) | x | x | x | Maltodextrin, Milk Protein |
| TCC Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Extract (53%) | 435 | 466 | x | x |
| Pandaroo Coconut Cream | Water | Coconut Extract (45%) | 435 | 412, 466 | x | x |
| Pureharvest Coco Quench Coconut Milk | Filtered Water | Organic Coconut Milk (20%) | x | x | Sea Salt | Organic Brown Rice |
| TCC Coconut Milk Lite | Water | Coconut Extract (19%) | 435 | 466 | x | x |
| Macro Organic Coconut Milk Unsweetened | Filtered Water | Organic Coconut Milk (12%) | x | x | Sea Salt | Organic Brown Rice |
| Kara UHT Coconut Milk | x | Fresh Coconut Milk (99.9%) | x | Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum, Carrageenan | x | x |
| Valcom Premium Coconut Cream | Water | Coconut Extract (93%) | 435 | 412, 466 | x | x |
| Valcom Premium Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Extract (90%) | 435 | Guar Gum, Gellan Gum | x | x |
| Kara Coconut Cream | Coconut Cream | 435 | 466, 415 | x | x | |
| Kara Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Milk | 435 | 466, 415 | x | x |
| Maggi Coconut Milk Powder | x | Coconut Milk Solids (79%) | x | x | Sodium Phosphate | Maltodextrin, Sodium Caseinate |
| Coles Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk | x | Coconut Syrup, Coconut Milk | x | Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum | Salt | x |
| Coles Unsweetened Coconut Milk | Water | Coconut Cream (8%) | x | Locust Bean Gum, Sodium Alginate, Guar Gum | Sea Salt | x |
| Ssm UHT Natural Coconut Cream | x | Fresh Natural Coconut Extract (99.9%) | x | Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum, Carrageenan | x | x |
Importance of Checking Labels
- Reading Labels: It's crucial to read labels carefully. Products with fewer ingredients are closer to their natural form, aligning with the Paleo philosophy.
- Avoid Additives: Emulsifiers and stabilisers can affect the natural integrity of the coconut milk. Choosing brands with fewer of these additives ensures a more natural product.
- Coconut Percentage: Higher coconut percentage means a richer product, but it's essential to balance this with the number of additives.
Recommendations Based on Usage
- For Cooking: For recipes requiring a rich coconut flavour, opt for brands with higher coconut content like Ayam Pure Coconut Cream or Ayam Regular Coconut Cream (AKA the best coconut milk in Australia!)
- For Drinking: For beverages, consider brands like Coles Organic Coconut Milk or Pureharvest Coco Quench Coconut Milk, which offer a balance of coconut content and fewer additives.
Why Choose Coconut Milk?
Coconut milk is a versatile ingredient in many recipes, from smoothies to curries. It's prized for its creamy texture and rich flavour. For those following a Paleo diet, coconut milk is an excellent alternative to dairy, providing healthy fats and essential nutrients.
Health Benefits of Coconut Milk
- Rich in Lauric Acid: This fatty acid is known for its antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which can help boost the immune system.
- Good Source of Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs): MCTs are easily digestible and can provide a quick energy source, which is beneficial for those on a Paleo or ketogenic diet.
- Dairy-Free: Ideal for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies, coconut milk provides a creamy texture without the lactose.
Uses of Coconut Milk in Cooking
- Smoothies and Shakes: Coconut milk can be a delicious base for smoothies, adding a creamy texture and tropical flavour.
- Curries and Soups: It’s a staple in many Asian cuisines, providing a rich and creamy base for curries and soups.
- Baking: Use coconut milk in place of dairy milk for baking to add moisture and a hint of coconut flavour to cakes, muffins, and bread.
How to Make Your Own Coconut Milk
If you prefer to have complete control over the ingredients in your coconut milk, making it at home is simple. If you have the time – this really will be the best coconut milk in Australia! Here’s a quick recipe:
- Ingredients: 1 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut, 2 cups of water.
- Instructions: Blend the shredded coconut and water in a high-speed blender for about 2-3 minutes. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or a fine mesh sieve. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips for Storing Coconut Milk
- Unopened Cans: Store in a cool, dry place. Check the expiration date and rotate your stock to use the oldest cans first.
- Opened Cans: Transfer any unused coconut milk to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Homemade Coconut Milk: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Shake well before using, as it may separate.
Common Questions About Coconut Milk
Is Coconut Milk the Same as Coconut Cream?
No, coconut cream is thicker and richer than coconut milk, containing less water.
Can You Freeze Coconut Milk?
Yes, you can freeze coconut milk, although it may separate upon thawing. Simply blend it to restore its consistency.
What’s the Difference Between Canned and Carton Coconut Milk?
Canned coconut milk is typically thicker and richer, suitable for cooking, while carton coconut milk is lighter and often used as a beverage.
Environmental Impact of Coconut Products
Coconut farming has a lower environmental impact compared to other crops like almonds or soy. However, it’s important to choose brands that support sustainable and ethical farming practices.
What am I missing? Have you got some other brands in your part of Australia or NZ? Which brand do you think is the best coconut milk in Australia?
Check back tomorrow to find out more about those added ingredients and whether we should be eating them…
The Ingredients Lists in Detail
Coconut Milk Products
Aldi Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (62%), Water, Stabiliser (Sodium Carboxy Methyl Cellulose), Emulsifier (Polysorbate 60), Thickener (Guar Gum).
Aldi Just Organic Coconut Milk
Ingredients: Organic Coconut Extract (44%), Water, Stabiliser (412).
Australia's Own Unsweetened Coconut Milk | 1L
Ingredients: Australian Water, Organic Coconut Cream (min 7.5%), Salt, Vegetable Gums (Locust Bean Gum, Sodium Alginate, Guar Gum).
Ayam Coconut Milk | 270mL
Ingredients: Coconut Kernel Extract (89%), Water.
Ayam Coconut Milk Light | 270mL
Ingredients: Coconut Kernel Extract (74%), Water.
Ayam Coconut Milk Tetra Hedron | 65mL
Ingredients: Coconut Kernel Extract (63%), Water, Vegetable Gum (Guar Gum).
Ayam Coconut Milk Powder | 150g
Ingredients: Coconut Milk (94%), Maltodextrin (from Tapioca), Milk Protein.
Coles Asia Premium Thai Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (82%), Water, Stabiliser (Guar Gum).
Coles Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Milk (50%), Water, Stabiliser (Guar Gum).
Coles Light Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Extract (40%), Stabiliser (Guar Gum).
Coles Organic Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Organic Coconut Extract (74%), Water, Stabiliser (Guar Gum).
Coles Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk | 320g
Ingredients: Coconut Syrup, Coconut Milk, Sugar, Salt, Stabilisers (Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum).
Coles Unsweetened Coconut Milk | 1L
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Cream (8%), Sea Salt, Vegetable Gums (Locust Bean Gum, Sodium Alginate, Guar Gum).
Essentials Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (50%), Water, Thickener (Guar Gum).
Kara UHT Coconut Milk | 8 x 400mL
Ingredients: Fresh Coconut Milk (99.9%), Stabilizers (Xanthan Gum E415, Guar Gum E412, Carrageenan E407).
Kara Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Milk, Stabiliser (466), Thickener (415), Emulsifier (435).
Maggi Coconut Milk Powder | 1kg
Ingredients: Coconut Milk Solids (79%), Maltodextrin, Sodium Caseinate (Milk), Stabiliser (Sodium Phosphate).
Macro Organic Coconut Milk Unsweetened | 1L
Ingredients: Filtered Water, Organic Coconut Milk (12%), Organic Brown Rice, Calcium Carbonate, Sea Salt.
Macro Organic Light Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Organic Coconut Extract (62%), Water, Thickener (Organic Guar Gum).
Pandaroo Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Extract (45%), Emulsifier & Stabiliser (435, 466).
Pandaroo Lite Coconut Milk | 165mL
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Extract (25%), Stabiliser & Emulsifier (E412, E435, E223).
Pandaroo Lite Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Extract (25%), Emulsifier & Stabiliser (412, 435, 466).
Pureharvest Coco Quench Coconut Milk | 1L
Ingredients: Filtered Water, Organic Coconut Milk (20%), Organic Brown Rice, Sea Salt.
TCC Coconut Milk Lite | 400mL
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Extract (19%), Thickener (466), Emulsifier (435).
TCC Coconut Milk | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (53%), Water.
Valcom Premium Coconut Milk | 1L
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (90%), Water, Stabilisers (Guar Gum, Gellan Gum).
Coconut Cream Products
Ayam Coconut Cream Tetra Edge | 200mL
Ingredients: Coconut (99%) (Coconut Kernel Extract (67%), Coconut Water (32%)), Vegetable Gum (Guar Gum).
Ayam Premium Light Coconut Cream | 270mL
Ingredients: Coconut Kernel Extract (74%), Water.
Ayam Pure Coconut Cream* | 270mL
Ingredients: Coconut Kernel Extract (100%).
Ayam Regular Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Kernel Extract (100%).
Coles Asia Premium Thai Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (98%), Water, Stabiliser (Guar Gum).
Coles Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (75%), Water, Thickeners (466, 412), Emulsifier (435).
Coles Light Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (62%), Water, Stabiliser (Guar Gum).
Coles Organic Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Organic Coconut Extract (82%), Water, Stabiliser (Guar Gum).
Essentials Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (76%), Water, Thickener (Guar Gum).
Kara Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Cream, Stabiliser (466), Thickener (415), Emulsifier (435).
Macro Organic Light Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Organic Coconut Extract (66%), Water, Thickener (Organic Guar Gum).
Mr Chen's Premium Thai Coconut Cream Gluten Free | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (90.91%), Water, Thickener (412).
Pandaroo Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Water, Coconut Extract (45%), Emulsifier (435), Thickener & Stabiliser (412, 466).
Ssm UHT Natural Coconut Cream | 200mL
Ingredients: Fresh Natural Coconut Extract (99.9%), Stabiliser (Xanthan Gum E415, Guar Gum E412, Carrageenan E407).
TCC Premium Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (65%), Water, Stabiliser (466), Emulsifier (435).
Valcom Premium Coconut Cream | 400mL
Ingredients: Coconut Extract (93%), Water, Stabilisers (412, 466), Emulsifier (435).
*this wins my award for the best coconut milk in Australia!
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