Patrick Oconnell
The popularity of vegan cheese has been rising in the UK, with an increase of 165% in sales value over the last two years. With many people turning to veganism for health reasons, it is important to understand the health implications of consuming vegan cheese. Vegan cheese is often made from healthy fats such as coconut oil and fortified with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12 and calcium, making it a good alternative for those who are lactose intolerant. However, it is also often heavily processed and has been criticised for being high in salt and saturated fat.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sales Value | The UK sales value of plant-based cheese has increased by 165% over the last two years |
| Availability | Sainsbury's sells 25 plant-based cheeses, Tesco lists 28 on its website, and Violife is available in most major supermarkets |
| Types | Cream cheese, hard cheese, grated cheese, sliced cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, applewood, chilli |
| Nutritional value | High in salt, saturated fat, and calcium. Can be fortified with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12. Often lower in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories |
| Health warnings | Action on Salt warns that plant-based cheese is almost 10% saltier than regular cheddar, and the government should enforce stricter salt reduction targets |
| Suitability | Suitable for those who are lactose intolerant, kosher, or environmentally conscious |
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What You'll Learn
- Vegan cheese is a good option for people who are lactose intolerant
- It is fortified with vitamins and minerals found in dairy, like vitamin B12 and calcium
- It is often lower in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories than regular cheese
- However, it is also often heavily processed and high in salt
- Popular brands include Violife, Sheese, Honestly Tasty, and Follow Your Heart
Vegan cheese is a good option for people who are lactose intolerant
Vegan cheese can be a good source of calcium and vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12. However, it is important to note that vegan cheese should not be relied upon as the sole source of these nutrients. A varied and balanced diet is key to maintaining good health.
Some popular vegan cheese brands include Violife, Sheese, and Honestly Tasty, which offer a range of flavours and varieties such as cheddar, mozzarella, and blue cheese. These cheeses are widely available in major supermarkets in the UK, making them accessible to those who are lactose intolerant.
While vegan cheese can be a good option for lactose intolerance, it is important to be mindful of the salt content. Some vegan cheeses have been found to be almost 10% saltier than regular cheddar. Therefore, it is advisable to read nutrition labels and consume vegan cheese in moderation.
Overall, vegan cheese can be a healthy option for people who are lactose intolerant, providing a delicious and accessible alternative to dairy cheese.
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It is fortified with vitamins and minerals found in dairy, like vitamin B12 and calcium
The health benefits of vegan cheese are a nuanced topic. While vegan cheese is often lower in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories, it is sometimes highly processed and can be high in salt. However, it is a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12 and calcium, which are also found in dairy products.
Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in several body functions, including red blood cell formation, neurological health, and DNA synthesis. Calcium is a mineral that is crucial for bone health, muscle function, and maintaining healthy teeth.
Some vegan cheeses are fortified with these vitamins and minerals, ensuring that those who choose a plant-based diet can still obtain these essential nutrients. This is particularly important for those who are lactose intolerant, as vegan cheese provides a way to include these nutrients in their diet without the negative side effects associated with lactose intolerance.
It is worth noting that the processing and salt content of vegan cheese can be a cause for concern. Processing can make it harder for the body to process certain ingredients, and a high salt intake is linked to raised blood pressure and negative impacts on health. However, this is not unique to vegan cheese, and the NHS recommends consuming these products in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
In conclusion, while vegan cheese can be a good source of vitamins and minerals typically found in dairy, it is important to consider the overall diet and consume these products in moderation.
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It is often lower in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories than regular cheese
Vegan cheese is often lower in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories than regular cheese. This makes it a healthier option for people with high cholesterol or those looking to reduce their calorie intake. For example, two slices of Violife vegan cheese contain 8.4 g of saturated fat, compared to 7.7 g for the same amount of cheddar cheese. However, it's important to note that some vegan cheeses still contain saturated fat, and the level of fat may be similar to that of dairy cheese.
Vegan cheese is often made from healthy fats such as coconut oil, which can be beneficial for people with certain health issues. Additionally, vegan cheese is a good option for those who are lactose intolerant, as it is dairy-free. It also caters to those following a Kosher diet, as it is permissible to eat vegan cheese with meat.
However, one concern with vegan cheese is that it can be highly processed. Heavily processed foods can contain ingredients that are difficult for the body to process and may lead to potential health issues. It is advisable to opt for high-quality artisanal vegan cheeses made with real ingredients like cashew nuts, vegan cultures, and coconut oil.
While vegan cheese can be part of a healthy diet, it should be consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced overall diet. The NHS in the UK recommends no more than 30g of saturated fat per day for males and 20g for females. People who eat a plant-based diet with the occasional slice of processed dairy-free cheese are unlikely to exceed this recommended amount.
It is worth noting that some vegan cheeses have been criticized for their high salt content. According to Action on Salt, plant-based cheeses have the highest salt levels, with an average of 1.91g per 100g. This is almost 10% saltier than regular cheddar. Excessive salt intake can increase blood pressure and negatively impact health. Therefore, it is important to read nutrition labels and be mindful of salt content when purchasing vegan cheese.
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However, it is also often heavily processed and high in salt
While vegan cheese can be a great alternative to dairy cheese, it is important to be aware of its potential drawbacks. One concern is that vegan cheese is often heavily processed, which can make it harder for your body to process and potentially lead to health issues. Heavily processed foods can contain ingredients that are difficult for the body to process and may cause negative health effects. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for high-quality artisanal vegan cheeses made with real ingredients like cashew nuts, vegan cultures, and coconut oil.
Another issue with vegan cheese is its high salt content. According to Action on Salt, plant-based cheeses have the highest salt levels, with an average of 1.91g per 100g. This is almost 10% saltier than regular cheddar. High salt intake is linked to raised blood pressure and can negatively impact health. The UK's Department of Health and Social Care estimates that reducing salt intake by just one gram per day could save over 4,000 premature deaths annually.
The high salt content in vegan cheese is particularly concerning given that it is often marketed as a healthier alternative to dairy cheese. While vegan cheese can be lower in cholesterol, saturated fat, and calories, the high salt content underscores the importance of consuming it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is worth noting that the salt content can vary between different brands and types of vegan cheese, with Morrisons offering the lowest average salt level of 1.61g/100g.
It is worth noting that some vegan cheeses are fortified with vitamins and minerals found in dairy, such as vitamin B12 and calcium. However, relying solely on vegan cheese as a source of these nutrients is not advisable, as a balanced diet includes a variety of foods. While vegan cheese can be a tasty and ethical alternative to dairy cheese, it is important to be mindful of its potential health drawbacks, such as high salt content and heavy processing.
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Popular brands include Violife, Sheese, Honestly Tasty, and Follow Your Heart
The popularity of vegan cheese is increasing in the UK, with sales of plant-based cheese increasing by 165% over the last two years. There are a variety of vegan cheese brands available, with popular options including Violife, Sheese, Honestly Tasty, and Follow Your Heart.
Violife
Violife is a well-known vegan cheese brand that offers a range of dairy-free cheese alternatives. Their products are made from plant-based ingredients and are designed to mimic the taste and texture of traditional cheese. Violife cheese is often made with coconut oil and vitamin B12, and comes in various flavours and styles, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan.
Sheese
Sheese is another popular vegan cheese brand, produced by Bute Island Foods. With over 30 years of experience in creating vegan foods, Bute Island offers a wide range of Sheese flavours that are free from dairy, gluten, and GMOs. Sheese is also Kosher and Vegan Certified, making it a versatile option for those with dietary restrictions.
Honestly Tasty
Honestly Tasty has been praised for raising the bar on vegan cheese. They use interesting ingredients and incorporate fermentation and ripening steps to create unique flavours. Their Shamembert, Bree, and Blue cheese alternatives are recommended by many. Honestly Tasty products can be found at Ocado and Marks and Spencer stores in the UK.
Follow Your Heart
Follow Your Heart is a brand that specialises in vegan alternatives, including dairy-free cheese. They believe in creating delicious and innovative plant-based options that delight taste buds and transform meals. Their cheese alternatives aim to provide a better, more sustainable food choice for consumers.
While the availability of vegan cheese options is increasing, it's important to consider their nutritional value. Vegan cheeses may be fortified with vitamins and minerals found in dairy, such as vitamin B12 and calcium. However, it's recommended to consume them in moderation and ensure a varied overall diet, as relying solely on vegan cheese for these nutrients may not be sufficient.
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Frequently asked questions
Vegan cheese is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy. It is often lower in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories than regular cheese. However, it is often heavily processed and can be high in salt. As with all foods, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Vegan cheese is made from a variety of plant-based ingredients, such as nuts (cashews), seeds, coconut oil, and soy. Some vegan cheeses are also fortified with vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12 and calcium.
Vegan cheese can have a tangy taste with a hint of saltiness. Some varieties aim to replicate specific types of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, while others have unique flavours like black truffle, smoky charcoal, or Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
