New Milk: The World’s First Cow-Free Barista Milk Launches

A new product, New Milk, touted as the world’s first barista-style milk made without cows, has officially entered the market in Israel. This innovative offering, developed by the Israeli biotech firm Remilk in collaboration with Gad Dairy, is designed to cater to both plant-based consumers and those who prefer traditional dairy but are concerned about its environmental impact.

New Milk utilizes a process known as precision fermentation, which replicates the taste and functionality of conventional dairy while eliminating animal involvement. The product is lactose-free, cholesterol-free, and fortified with calcium and vitamins, providing similar health benefits to traditional milk. According to Dr. Ori Cohavi, Remilk’s Chief Technology Officer and co-founder, the experience of using New Milk is virtually indistinguishable from that of whole cow milk in coffee. He stated, “From the consumer perspective, the experience would be identical to having whole cow milk with your coffee.”

Targeting Coffee Shops First

Unlike other dairy alternatives, such as the recently launched Cow Free milk by Strauss Group in partnership with ImaginDairy, New Milk is focusing on the foodservice industry as its primary launch platform. Dr. Cohavi explained that approximately 87% of milk consumption in Israel occurs in coffee settings. “Coffee drinking is more than a habit. It’s a ritual, a daily cultural moment that people care deeply about,” he said.

The choice to introduce New Milk in coffee shops allows consumers to experience the product prepared by expert baristas, highlighting its flavor and texture. Dr. Cohavi noted that coffee shops serve as “the ultimate proving ground” for their product, as baristas are among the most discerning users of milk. Success in this sector could pave the way for broader acceptance in other markets.

In addition to coffee shops, the wider foodservice industry has expressed interest in New Milk, particularly for its potential in desserts. Local chefs who have experimented with Remilk products reported achieving results comparable to those using traditional cow-based ingredients. There are plans to expand the offering to include other dairy products like yogurt and cream cheese.

Retail Launch Planned for 2026

While New Milk is currently being trialed in foodservice settings, Remilk and Gad Dairy are preparing for a retail launch projected for 2026. This nationwide rollout in Israel will include various milk products, with plans to follow up with yogurt and cream cheese. “The retail launch will have nationwide coverage, to be carried in the largest grocery stores that are already served by Gad Dairy’s distribution network,” Dr. Cohavi stated.

Consumer interest in these products appears promising. A market survey conducted by Remilk revealed that over 57% of Israeli consumers prefer to avoid cow milk due to health concerns. However, many remain hesitant to switch to plant-based alternatives primarily due to taste and health concerns regarding high sugar levels in those products.

The launch of New Milk holds global significance for food technology companies specializing in precision fermentation. Although initially limited to the Israeli market, insights gained from this launch could inform consumer preferences for cow-free milk, an emerging category in dairy alternatives. It may also provide valuable data for global regulators, potentially unlocking markets in regions such as the European Union.

Dr. Cohavi emphasized the importance of the recent product launches from both Remilk and ImaginDairy, stating, “The fact that two precision-fermentation companies had significant product launches within days of each other in one small country illustrates the thriving foodtech and alt protein ecosystem in Israel.” With Israeli consumers known for their openness to innovative products, this development may signal a promising future for cow-free dairy alternatives in markets around the world, including the United States.