Patrick Oconnell
The Laughing Cow cheese brand has recently released a vegan version of its iconic cheese wedges. The dairy-free cheese spread alternative was developed in collaboration with Follow Your Heart, a established vegan food brand. The Laughing Cow's new plant-based cheese is available in two flavours: Original and Garlic & Herb. The product is individually wrapped and can be spread, dipped, or used in recipes. The release of The Laughing Cow's vegan cheese follows the launch of other vegan versions of Bel Group's cheeses, including Boursin Dairy-Free Cheese Spread Alternative and Babybel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Company | The Laughing Cow |
| Company Type | French dairy company |
| Company Name | Bel Group |
| Other Brands Owned | Boursin, Babybel |
| Vegan Cheese Type | Spreadable cheese alternative |
| Flavors | Original, Garlic & Herb, Pepper Jack, Smoked Gouda |
| Ingredients | Almond milk, coconut milk, food starches, pea protein, vitamin B12 |
| Calories | 35 per wedge |
| Nutritional Information | Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Plant-Based, good source of calcium |
| Reviews | Mixed, some positive, some negative |
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What You'll Learn
- The Laughing Cow has launched vegan cheese spreads in Original and Garlic & Herb flavours
- The vegan cheese is made with almond milk and fortified with vitamin B12
- The product is Certified Plant-Based, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Vegan
- The vegan cheese has received mixed reviews, with some criticising its texture and taste
- Other brands like GOOD PLANeT Foods, Miyoko's Creamery, and Follow Your Heart also offer vegan cheese spreads
The Laughing Cow has launched vegan cheese spreads in Original and Garlic & Herb flavours
The Laughing Cow is owned by French dairy company Bel Group, which also owns Boursin and Babybel. The company's move into plant-based cheese reflects the growing market for dairy-free goods and the pressure for dairy-based brands to diversify. The vegan cheese category surged to $270 million in 2020, with a 42.5% growth from the previous year. Bel Group's previous launches of vegan cheese, including Boursin Dairy-Free Cheese Spread Alternative and Babybel's plant-based cheese rounds, were a massive success and encouraged the company to expand its vegan offerings.
The Laughing Cow's vegan cheese spreads are available at Whole Foods stores in the US and come in individually wrapped wedges, perfect for packing in lunches or enjoying as a midday snack. The product is Certified Plant-Based, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan, and a good source of calcium.
While some consumers have praised the taste and creaminess of the vegan cheese spreads, others have criticised the product for its unpleasant taste and texture. Some have also pointed out that the Original flavour tastes bland compared to the dairy-based version.
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The vegan cheese is made with almond milk and fortified with vitamin B12
There are several vegan cheese spreads on the market that are similar to the traditional Laughing Cow cheese wedges. The Laughing Cow itself has released a plant-based, vegan version of its popular cheese wedges, which are made with almond milk and fortified with vitamin B12. This vitamin is essential for the body as it helps create DNA and red blood cells, and also plays a role in developing the central nervous system. Since the body doesn't produce vitamin B12 naturally, it must be obtained from foods of animal origin or supplements.
The Laughing Cow's plant-based cheese wedges are a delicious, creamy, spreadable cheese alternative that combines almond milk with garlic and herbs. These wedges are perfect for spreading on crackers, pretzels, veggies, and even apples. They are also lactose-free, Certified Plant-Based, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Vegan. Each wedge contains 35 calories and is a good source of calcium, making it a healthy and tasty snack option for vegans and those who are lactose intolerant.
While some consumers have praised the taste and texture of this vegan cheese spread, others have found it bland and unpleasant. One reviewer, who has been vegan for over 20 years and has experience with various vegan cheeses, expressed disappointment with the product, noting that it lacked the tangy flavour of the original dairy-based version.
In addition to The Laughing Cow's plant-based option, there are other vegan cream cheeses available, such as the Phillie brand, which has received mixed reviews. Some consumers have found it gritty and slimy, while others have enjoyed the flavour. Violife is another brand that offers a well-liked vegan cream cheese, although their shreds and slices have yet to impress consumers.
Overall, while there are some negative reviews, The Laughing Cow's plant-based, almond milk-based, vitamin B12-fortified cheese wedges seem to be a popular option for those seeking a vegan cheese spread similar to the traditional Laughing Cow.
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The product is Certified Plant-Based, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Vegan
Yes, there are vegan cheese spreads on the market that resemble Laughing Cow in terms of texture and packaging. These products are designed to offer a plant-based alternative to traditional cheese spreads, providing a dairy-free and vegan-friendly option.
The product in question is Certified Plant-Based, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Vegan. This means that it meets specific standards and requirements set by these certifying bodies. The Certified Plant-Based designation indicates that the product is entirely free of animal products and by-products, ensuring it aligns with a vegan lifestyle and ethical choices.
The Non-GMO Project Verification signifies that the product has undergone a rigorous review process to ensure it meets the Non-GMO Project's standards. These standards include stringent requirements regarding the avoidance of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The certification assures consumers that the product has been produced without the use of GMOs, which is an important factor for those seeking to avoid potential health and environmental risks associated with GMO consumption.
Additionally, being Certified Vegan guarantees that the product is free from animal exploitation and cruelty. This certification extends beyond the absence of animal ingredients to include the entire manufacturing process, ensuring that no animal testing has been conducted and that the product is free from animal-derived GMOs, ensuring it meets the ethical standards of veganism.
These certifications provide assurance to consumers seeking vegan, plant-based, and non-GMO options. They offer transparency and trust, allowing consumers to make informed choices that align with their values and preferences. By meeting these standards, the product caters to a growing demand for ethical, sustainable, and plant-based alternatives in the food industry.
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The vegan cheese has received mixed reviews, with some criticising its texture and taste
The Laughing Cow's plant-based cheese has received mixed reviews from consumers. While some praise its flavour and creaminess, others have criticised its texture and taste. The product is available in two flavours: Original and Garlic & Herb. The Original flavour has been described as bland, gelatinous, and gritty, with an unpleasant aftertaste. The Garlic & Herb flavour, on the other hand, has received more positive reviews, with some consumers finding it tasty and creamy, although others still found the texture distracting.
Some consumers have expressed disappointment, especially those who remember the taste of the dairy-based version and had high hopes for the vegan alternative. The texture of the vegan cheese has been a common point of criticism, described as "bland", "gritty", "slimy", and "dry". One consumer compared the experience of eating the cheese to "eating damp sand".
However, it's important to note that tastes and preferences vary, and some people may enjoy the vegan cheese despite its mixed reviews. Additionally, the product's convenience as a snack and its dairy-free, vegan-friendly nature are also factors that may appeal to consumers.
The vegan cheese market is growing, and companies like Bel Group, which owns The Laughing Cow, are recognising the importance of diversifying their offerings to include plant-based alternatives. This expansion provides consumers with more choices and allows them to make sustainable and ethical decisions without compromising on taste and convenience.
While The Laughing Cow's plant-based cheese may not have universally positive reviews, it contributes to the growing trend of vegan cheese options, giving consumers the power to choose products that align with their dietary preferences, health needs, and ethical values.
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Other brands like GOOD PLANeT Foods, Miyoko's Creamery, and Follow Your Heart also offer vegan cheese spreads
While some people enjoy the taste of The Laughing Cow's vegetable cheese, others find it unpleasant, with an off-putting aftertaste. If you're looking for vegan cheese spreads that better satisfy your taste buds, there are several other brands to consider.
GOOD PLANeT Foods, for instance, offers "delicious and joyful cheesy recipes". Miyokos Creamery, based in Sonoma County, California, produces award-winning, phenomenally vegan plant milk butter and cheese. Their products are crafted with simple organic ingredients and no added oils or gums, resulting in a subtly tangy flavour and creamy texture. Miyokos Creamery also offers a bold Jalapeño Cheese Spread, perfect for those who enjoy spicy food.
Follow Your Heart provides a range of vegan food products, including plant-based cheeses, dressings, and dips. Nuts for Cheese is another brand to consider, offering plant-based cheeses made from nuts and cashews. If you're looking for a vegan cream cheese, Violife and Philly are two brands that have been recommended by consumers.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, The Laughing Cow carries a few plant-based products including its spreadable cheese alternative in Original and Garlic and Herb flavours. The product is made with almond milk and fortified with vitamin B12.
The vegan Laughing Cow is available at Whole Foods stores and other major retailers.
Yes, there are many vegan cheese spreads on the market that are similar to Laughing Cow. GOOD PLANeT Foods, Follow Your Heart, and Miyoko's Creamery all offer vegan cheese spreads.
