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Tea and coffee remain an essential part of daily routines in many Indian households, with milk being the one main ingredient. However, the recent milk price hike encouraged many families to reconsider everyday food and beverage expenses. As a result, some people are now exploring affordable drink alternatives that use little to no milk while still fitting into their daily routines. From herbal teas to homemade summer coolers, several options can work as lighter, budget-friendly substitutes for milk-based beverages.

Affordable alternatives to milk-based drinks

Green tea

Green tea remains one of the most popular alternatives to milk-based teas. It is refreshing, light to drink, affordable, and commonly associated with antioxidants and hydration benefits.

Black tea

Unlike traditional chai, black tea can be made without milk while still offering a strong flavour and caffeine content. Drinking it has its own benefits, like it helps boost heart health, supports healthy digestion, and improves energy.

Coconut water

Coconut water naturally has electrolytes, and they work as a cooling beverage during hot weather. It serves as an excellent hydrator and also supports heart and kidney health.

Herbal teas

Drinks like chamomile, peppermint, and ginger-infused water are becoming more popular among people who are looking for lighter beverages. These teas are highly affordable in comparison to any milk-based drinks. By eliminating milk, the cost is significantly lower. However, the price matters entirely based on the brand. This helps in cutting down the addiction to milk tea.

Sattu drink

Sattu-based drinks are affordable and filling. And as beneficial sattu is with milk for muscle gain, water-based sattu is best for weight loss and cooling the body. It is consumed in several Indian states as a cooling beverage.

Fruit-infused water

Water infused with fruits such as cucumber, lemon, berries, and topped with mint works as a refreshing alternative to sugary and milk beverages, which are heavy to consume.

Homemade vegetable juices

Vegetable juices can be a highly affordable alternative to any milk-based drink when made at home. Stick to locally sourced vegetables like lauki, carrots, spinach, and tomatoes because these help in cutting down costs.