<p>The invention provides low protein and protein-free liquid creamer compositions, and processes for making them. The liquid creamer composition includes an emulsifying component comprising a combination of at least two low molecular weight emulsifiers; a hydrocolloid system comprising microcrystalline cellulose (MCC)/carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)/carrageenan; a chelating system comprising at least one chelating agent of an organic or inorganic acid or organic or inorganic acid salt; a buffer system comprising at least one buffering agent; and a whitening agent in an amount sufficient to provide additional whitening to an aqueous media to which the creamer is added. The composition has a vegetable oil content of about 0.1% to about 33% by weight of the composition and a protein content of no more than 3% by weight of the composition. The composition is in the form of an aseptic liquid creamer that is shelf-stable for at least nine months, and provides high whitening capacity and a pleasant mouth-feel wi
