If you’re anything like me, nothing makes you smile more than a nice cup of coffee or tea with a splash of creamer as you wake up for the day. And if you’ve ever worked in an office, your company likely accompanies its coffee station with a variety of tiny cups of International Delight Creamer.
International Delight Creamer is considered gluten-free. The main ingredients in International Delight Creamer are water, cane sugar, certified-sustainable palm oil, and natural and artificial flavoring. International Delight’s website states that International Delight does not contain gluten. The best healthier gluten-free alternatives include Laird Superfood Pumpkin Spice Creamer, Nutpods French Vanilla, and Picnik French Vanilla Keto Creamer.
Now, let’s learn more about the history of International Delight Creamer, the nutritional content of different International Delight Creamer flavors, what it pairs well with, and more.
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Background Information
International Delight Creamer claims to be the first non-dairy creamer in a liquid state that hit the shelves back in 1987. The brand was launched by WhiteWave Foods, which is a subsidiary of a company that offers a lot of milk and dairy products, Dean Foods. Now, it is owned by Danone. They currently gross around €24.65 billion Euro annually.
While Danone offers many gluten-free products, WhiteWave Foods’ Horizon Brand, where International Delight was initially launched, has products that contain gluten, such as their Macaroni and cheese. Danone’s website states that many of its products are certified gluten-free, however on the International Delight website, there is no sign of “Certified” gluten-free anywhere. It is a bit tricky to determine.
International Delight generates over 24 flavored seasonal creamers annually and has even licensed certain flavors they coin “American Favorites” which cannot be replicated by other entities. Some of these flavors include the classic Almond Joy, York Peppermint Pattie, and Cinnabon. If you’re American, you’ve likely tried or at least heard of one or all three of these tried and true American sweet treats.
An interesting fact about International Delight is that around 70% of its consumers are women. Perhaps we love our flavored coffees more than men. There is some controversy around the packaging of single-serve creamers and coffee cups not being recyclable. International Delight states on their website that their packaging is recyclable, but only if you are purchasing half or full-size bottles of creamer.
Delicious Drinks Infused with International Delight Creamer
Need some inspiration for drinks to make with International Delight creamer? We got you.
If you’re looking for something that isn’t gluten-free, try classic Folgers Coffee for that traditional earthy coffee taste many people know and love. The simplicity of Folgers paired with the vibrant creaminess of International Delight makes for a pleasant beverage. An addition to add a little crunch to your coffee could be Biscoff Cookies. Again, these cookies are not gluten-free, so if you are gluten-intolerant, try a gluten-free cookie brand like Highkey’s Keto Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Not big on coffee? Flavorful creamer also pairs well with a warm cup of tea.
Is International Delight Creamer Healthy?
If you’re dairy-free or vegan or have underlying health problems, International Delight won’t be the best choice for you. It’s also not suggested for those who are trying to watch their sugar intake. As you can see from the nutritional information and active ingredients listed above, International Delight uses artificial flavoring and added sugar and several additives.
An ingredient to watch out for is dipotassium phosphate, which is relatively safe for healthy individuals but those with common health problems should proceed with caution. Dipotassium Phosphate is used in food as an additive to emulsify and stabilize the viscosity of a product. Carrageenan, another additive to International Delight can be harmful to humans as well. It is extracted from “Irish Moss” or Red Seaweed and is known to cause digestive problems, bloating, and inflammation.
If you’re looking for a healthier, gluten-free alternative to International Delight Creamer, we’ve done the research for you! Check below to see a few of the best options out there.
Nutritional Facts for International Delight Creamer
French Vanilla
A delectable combination of creamy and sweet, French Vanilla is a classic International Delight Staple. Enjoy instant gratification as the delightfully rich flavors touch your lips.
Ingredients:
- Water
- Cane Sugar
- Palm oil
- Contains Ms 2% or less of:
- Sodium Caseinate (a milk derivative, but not a source of lactose)
- Dipotassium Phosphate
- Carrageenan
- Mono and Diglycerides
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Sodium Stearoyl
- Lactylate
- Salt
Nutritional Facts (per 1 Tbsp/15mL):
- Calories 35
- Total Fat: 1.5g, 2% DV
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g, 3% DV
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg, 0% DV
- Sodium: 10mg, 0% DV
- Total Carb.: 5g 0% DV
- Dietary Fiber: 0g 0% DV
- Sugars: 5g
- Incl. 5g added sugars, 10% DV
- Protein: 0g
Caramel Macchiato
Looking to spice up your morning with a kick of flavor? International Delight’s Caramel Macchiato has the oh-so-sweet touch that will turn your morning coffee into a creamy dream. Compared to the French Vanilla, the Caramel Macchiato is a tad bit on sweeter side.
Ingredients:
- Water
- Cane Sugar
- Palm oil
- Contains Ms 2% or less of:
- Sodium Caseinate (a milk derivative, but not a source of lactose)
- Dipotassium Phosphate
- Carrageenan
- Mono and Diglycerides
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Sodium Stearoyl
- Lactylate
- Salt
Nutritional Facts (per 1 Tbsp/15mL):
- Calories 35
- Total Fat: 1.5g, 2% DV
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g, 3% DV
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg, 0% DV
- Sodium: 10mg, 0% DV
- Total Carb.: 5g 0% DV
- Dietary Fiber: 0g 0% DV
- Sugars: 5g
- Incl. 5g added sugars, 10% DV
- Protein: 0g
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Fall in love with International Delight Creamer’s seasonal Pumpkin Pie Spice flavor. Not only is the creamer aromatic but it will be sure to warm your tummy.
Ingredients:
- Water
- Canesugar
- Palm oil
- Contains Ms 2% or less of:
- Sodium Caseinate (a milk derivative, but not a source of lactose)
- Dipotassium Phosphate
- Carrageenan
- Mono and Diglycerides
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Sodium Stearoyl
- Lactylate
- Salt
Nutritional Facts (per 1 Tbsp/15mL):
- Calories 35
- Total Fat: 1.5g, 2% DV
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g, 3% DV
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg, 0% DV
- Sodium: 10mg, 0% DV
- Total Carb.: 5g 0%
- Dietary Fiber: 0g 0%
- Sugars: 5g
- Incl. 5g added sugars, 10% DV
- Protein: 0g
Healthier, Dairy-Free Alternative Creamers
Laird Superfood Creamer – Pumpkin Spice
Laird Superfood has a wide selection of creamers that are certified gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, vegan, keto-friendly, and Non-GMO. Laird has over 14 creamers packed with superfoods and natural flavors. They have unique varieties of ingredients in their creamers such as cacao, functional mushrooms, and turmeric. They also have the option for unsweetened or sweetened creamer, depending on what you’re looking for.
This creamer is a great alternative to International Delight Creamers as it is made with real ingredients, made from plants, and does not contain any artificial flavors or refined sugars. If you’re on the go, this creamer is perfect for you because there is no refrigeration required. Oh, and did we mention the Pumpkin Spice creamer, among other flavors, is positively delicious?
Ingredients:
- Coconut Milk Powder
- Organic Coconut Sugar
- Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
- Pumpkin Powder
- Pumpkin Spice Blend
- Aquamin (Seaweed-Derived Calcium)
- Contains tree nuts (coconut)
Nutritional Facts (per 1 Tbsp/2g):
- Calories 10
- Total Fat: 1g, 1% DV
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g, 3% DV
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg, 0% DV
- Sodium: 10mg, 0% DV
- Total Carb.: 1g 0%
- Dietary Fiber: 0g 0%
- Sugars: 1g
- Incl. Added Sugars: <1g, 1% DV
- Protein: 0g
Nutpods – French Vanilla
If you’re looking for dairy-free gluten-free options, Nutpods is another choice comparative to Lairds. Their creamers are either oat-based or almond and coconut-based. This product has low sodium, is sugar-free, kosher, vegan, and gluten-free verified. They have dozens of flavors, including a variety of holiday-inspired creamers such as Peppermint Mocha, Holiday Nog, and the Winter Collection. They even have a limited edition Cotton Candy variety if that intrigues you.
Enjoy the essence of vanilla bean without the added sugar. Be sure to shake well to blend the liquids as they separate if stagnant for long periods of time. Below are the nutritional facts and ingredients for the French Vanilla creamer.
Ingredients:
- Purified Water
- Coconut Cream
- Almonds
- Natural Flavors
- Acacia Gum
- Dipotassium Phosphate
- Sunflower Lecithin
- Sea Salt
- Gellan Gum
Nutritional Facts (per 1 Tbsp/15mL):
- Calories 10
- Total Fat: 1g, 1% DV
- Saturated Fat: 0g, 0% DV
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg, 0% DV
- Sodium: 10mg, 0% DV
- Total Carb.: 0g 0%
- Dietary Fiber: 0g 0%
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Picnik Keto Creamer – French Vanilla Keto Creamer
With outstanding branding and the promise of delivering a functional creamer to kickstart your day, Picnic is another delightful creamer option for the gluten-intolerant. Picnic prides itself on being plant-based, dairy-free, non-GMO, and a good source for added focus and clarity. It’s gluten-free and unsweetened, but watch out for additives like Dipotassium Phosphate and Calcium Carbonate. It also has Sodium Citrate which can cause muscle twitches, cramps, or mood changes.
The blend of signature adaptogens and collagen is designed to make you feel good and energized. The MCT oil is added to give your brain that extra boost it needs to tackle your day. Be sure to keep Picnik refrigerated after opening and used within 14 days.
Ingredients:
- Oatmilk (water, Whole-Grain Gluten-Free Oats)
- MCT Oil
- Picnik Adaptogen Blend (Grass-fed Collagen, L-Tyrosine, L-Theanine, Eleuthero Extract, Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract, Ashwagandha Root Extract, Cordyceps Mushroom Extract)
- Contains 1% or less of:
- Natural Vanilla Flavor
- Sunflower Lecithin
- Acacia Gum
- Dipotassium Phosphate
- Calcium Carbonate
- Sodium Citrate
- Tara Gum
- Gellan Gum
Nutritional Facts (per ½ cup/118mL):
- Calories 40
- Total Fat: 2.5g, 3% DV
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g, 13% DV
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg, 0% DV
- Sodium: 105mg, 5% DV
- Total Carb.: 3g 0% DV
- Dietary Fiber: 0g 0% DV
- Sugars: 0g
- Incl. 0g added sugars, 10% DV
- Protein: 1g
- Calcium: 251mg, 20% DV
- Potassium: 323 mg, 6% DV
Final Thoughts
Aside from International Delight Creamer, all three of the above-listed alternative creamers are certified gluten-free! If you’re looking to go the healthy route and stick to natural ingredients with no added sugar, Laird Superfood Creamer is your best bet. They have an eclectic array of flavors so you’ll definitely have options in case you want to switch up the scene every once in a while.
Related Questions
Does International Delight Creamer contain lactose?
No, while International Delight does not contain lactose, it does contain a milk derivative called sodium caseinate.
How long does an International Delight creamer last?
Use within two weeks of opening. Check the used by date but go by your best judgment if you can feel it going rancid.
Is International Delight Creamer bad for you?
The short answer is yes, International delight creamer contains ingredients that may be widely considered as unhealthy, including added chocolates and sugars. While delicious, it might not be the healthiest option when considering creamers.