The subject of non-dairy creamers is a rather controversial one in the coffee world. These additives come in liquid or granular form and are intended to act as a substitute for milk or cream in coffee, tea or other beverages. There are some who think such substances detract from the taste of coffee; I happen to be one of them. Nevertheless, such substances can act as a useful substitute for those who are lactose-intolerant or for other reasons cannot tolerate the taste of milk or cream.According to Wikipedia, the first non-dairy creamer was introduced by Nestle in 1961. To replicate the "mouth feel" of milk fats, many non-dairy creamers contain vegetable-based fats, although non-dairy non-fat creamers/whiteners also exist. Other common ingredients include sodium caseinate (a milk protein that does not contain lactose), corn syrup or other sweeteners, and flavorings.
One interesting fact is that non-dairy creamers are highly flammable. A small spark can set fire to the substance if the powder is dispersed into the air. According to Wikipedia, this phenomenon was demonstrated on the television show "Mythbusters."
Although there exist a variety of non-dairy creamers on the market, Nestle's Coffee Mate remains the most popular brand currently sold. Today, Coffee Mate has expanded their products to include a variety of regular and fat-free flavors. Among the most popular of Coffee Mate's current flavors is Original, French Vanilla, Irish Cream, Hazelnut, Vanilla Nut and others. The powdered form has a shelf life of approximately two years, while the liquid version expires after 14 days. In 2005, Nestle also introduced reduced carb and sugar free flavors.
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