Bushra Griffith
Trader Joe's has become increasingly innovative with its vegan cheese products, offering a varied selection of vegan cheeses that are affordable and tasty. The grocery store has received particular acclaim for its vegan cream cheese, which has been praised as the best-tasting plain vegan cream cheese on the market. However, with products like vegan feta, cheddar-style slices, and dairy-free mozzarella shreds, the question arises: are these vegan cheeses also gluten-free? This is especially pertinent as some of these products may contain ingredients that could have gluten depending on the source.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Yes |
| Gluten-free | Yes, but may contain gluten as "natural flavors" |
| Dairy-free | Yes |
| Calories | 60 per slice |
| Protein | None |
| Base | Cashew |
| Texture | Creamy and smooth |
| Taste | Mild with a tangy aftertaste |
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What You'll Learn
Trader Joe's Dairy-Free Mozzarella Style Shreds
Trader Joe's has been pushing the boundaries of food innovation with its vegan and gluten-free products. One such product is the Trader Joe's Dairy-Free Mozzarella Style Shreds, which has been available for a couple of years.
These mozzarella-style shreds are made from cashews and coconut oil, as well as yeast extract and cultures. They have a nutty flavour with a hint of sweetness and a texture similar to regular cheese. The shreds are thick and slightly chalky, and some reviewers have noted that they are missing the tang that comes with regular mozzarella.
The shreds can be used in various dishes, such as quesadillas, homemade pizza, and chicken salad. They melt well, making them suitable for grilled cheese or burgers. However, they do not have the same cheese pull as dairy-based mozzarella.
It is important to note that while Trader Joe's offers a variety of vegan cheese options, including mozzarella-style shreds, slices, and feta, some of their products may contain dairy. For example, their Almond Mozzarella is not vegan, as it contains dairy. Therefore, it is always good to carefully check the labels and ensure that the product is suitable for your dietary needs.
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Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese
Trader Joe's is well-known for its innovative vegan and gluten-free products. The company offers a range of vegan cheese options, including hard and soft cheeses, cheese spreads, and slices, that cater to various dietary restrictions and preferences. One of their popular products is the Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese, which has received positive reviews from consumers.
The product has received acclaim from consumers, especially those who are vegan or dairy-free due to allergies. Some reviewers claim it to be the best-tasting plain vegan cream cheese on the market, surpassing other brands in terms of taste and texture. It is also praised for its affordability and value, making it a popular choice among those seeking dairy-free alternatives.
While some consumers have noted that the Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese has a distinct taste that differs from traditional cream cheese, they have grown to love its unique flavour. The product is versatile and can be used in various recipes, including cheesecakes, dips, and spreads, making it a favourite among those who enjoy vegan cuisine.
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Trader Joe's Dairy-Free Cheddar Style Slices
At 60 calories per slice, the nutritional profile of the cheese is similar to that of regular cheese, although it contains no protein. The ingredients include water, cashews, coconut oil, modified food starch, potato starch, sea salt, natural flavours, nutritional yeast, annatto extract, lactic acid, yeast extract, and cultures.
Reviews of the product are mixed. Some people find that the cheese works well in grilled cheese sandwiches or burgers, as it melts easily and improves in texture once melted. However, others have noted that it does not add any cheese flavour to the dish and that it is overly sweet and grainy, with a strong coconut taste.
When eaten raw, the cheese has been described as reminiscent of Velveeta but with more flavour. It has also been noted that the product works well when melted into a sandwich or used in a dish like mac n cheese.
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Trader Joe's Vegan Feta
Trader Joe's offers a variety of vegan cheese options, including hard and soft cheeses, cheese spreads, and slices. One of their popular products is the Trader Joe's Vegan Feta, which has received positive reviews from vegan cheese enthusiasts.
Product Description
Preparation and Serving Suggestions
When cooked, the vegan feta can be baked with tomatoes and onions and blended into a savoury sauce for pasta. Baking it with vegetables enhances the rich savouriness of the cheese, making it a tasty addition to pasta dishes.
Customer Reviews
Reviews for Trader Joe's Vegan Feta have been mixed. Some customers have praised its flavour and texture, claiming it to be comparable to dairy feta. They appreciate its versatility and how it elevates their vegan dishes. However, others have noted a strong plastic smell and a lingering aftertaste, which detracts from the overall experience.
Discontinuation Concerns
There were reports in July 2024 that Trader Joe's Vegan Feta had been discontinued, causing disappointment among its loyal customers. However, more recent reviews from February 2025 indicate that the product may still be available or has been reintroduced. It seems to be gaining popularity, with positive reviews praising its taste and texture compared to other vegan feta brands.
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Trader Joe's Vegan Cheese: Taste and Texture
Trader Joe's offers a varied selection of vegan cheeses that are both affordable and tasty. The selection includes hard and soft cheeses, cheese spreads, and cheese slices.
Vegan Cream Cheese
The vegan cream cheese has a creamy, smooth texture and a tangy aftertaste. It is a coconut oil-based spread that also contains soy. It is best served on a New York-style everything bagel with smoked paprika. It is also great on rice crackers.
Dairy-Free Cheddar Style Slices
The dairy-free cheddar-style slices are made with cashews and have a similar calorie count to regular cheese. They are described as tasting similar to Velveeta but with more flavor. The slices work well in grilled cheese sandwiches, melting quickly and improving in texture once melted. However, they do not provide a cheese pull and taste overly sweet and grainy, with a hint of coconut.
Vegan Feta
The vegan feta is made of coconut oil, potato starch, and potato protein. It has a strong fermented smell and a creamy texture. It can be used in a Greek salad or cooked with tomatoes, onions, and olive oil and blended into a pasta sauce. It has a rich, savory flavor that is salty and slightly tangy, similar to its dairy counterpart.
Vegan Cheese Spread
The vegan cheese spread can be used as a dip with pita chips or spread on toast or a bagel. It can also be added to boiled potatoes with vegan butter, roasted garlic, and seasoning. It has a creamy, light, and fluffy texture.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Trader Joe's vegan cheeses, such as the Dairy-Free Cheddar Style Slices, are gluten-free. However, it's important to check the ingredient list for specific products, as some may contain gluten.
Trader Joe's offers a variety of gluten-free vegan cheeses, including Dairy-Free Cheddar Style Slices, Dairy-Free Mozzarella Style Shreds, and vegan cream cheese.
While the ingredient lists for Trader Joe's vegan cheeses do not explicitly mention gluten, it's important to be cautious. Gluten can sometimes be hidden under the label of "natural flavors," so further investigation or contacting the manufacturer may be necessary to confirm the gluten-free status of a product.
