Bushra Griffith
White cheddar cheese is a beloved variety of cheese, known for its melting ability and versatility. For those following a vegetarian diet, the question of whether white cheddar cheese is suitable can be tricky. Traditional cheddar cheese is often made with animal-derived rennet, obtained from the stomach of calves, which raises concerns for vegetarians. However, it's not all bad news. Many cheddar cheese producers have started using microbial or vegetable rennet, making their products vegetarian-friendly. Some brands even offer vegan white cheddar cheese, which can be a delicious and ethical option. So, is white cheddar cheese vegetarian? The answer is: it depends on the brand and production method. Those adhering to a strict vegetarian diet should look for labels indicating the use of non-animal rennet or seek out vegan alternatives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian-friendly white cheddar cheese | Tillamook, Follow Your Heart, Miyoko's, Lucerne (Safeway), Kraft Grated Parmesan, Laughing Cow, Trader Joe's Grated Parmesan, Kroger Grated Parmesan, Adam's Reserve (Costco), Emborg, Banza, Cheez-it Cheese Crackers Baked Snack White Cheddar, It Doesn't Taste Like Chicken's Vegan Sharp Cheddar Cheese |
| Non-vegetarian white cheddar cheese | Kraft shredded cheeses, Velveeta, Kraft Singles, Great Value Cheddar, Land O' Lakes brand cheeses, Manchego (Kirkland Signature), Great Value cream cheese, Epiros Original Feta, Galbani mozzarella and ricotta, Great Lakes Cheeses, Schreiber cheeses |
| Vegetarian-friendly indicators | Labels that explicitly state the cheese is made with non-animal rennet, "vegetarian safe" labels, "microbial" labels |
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What You'll Learn
Traditional white cheddar is not vegetarian
Whether or not white cheddar cheese is vegetarian depends on how it is made. Traditional white cheddar cheese is not vegetarian because it is made with animal-derived rennet, which is obtained from the stomach of calves. However, some varieties of white cheddar are now produced using microbial or vegetable rennet, making them vegetarian-friendly.
Rennet is an essential component in the cheese-making process, as it helps to coagulate milk, turning it into curds and whey. Traditional rennet is derived from the stomachs of calves, making it unsuitable for vegetarians. However, modern cheesemakers have developed alternative sources of rennet that are suitable for vegetarians, such as microbial rennet produced by bacteria, yeast, or fungi, or vegetable rennet extracted from plants like thistles or nettles.
When shopping for vegetarian-friendly white cheddar cheese, it is important to read the labels carefully. If the cheese is explicitly labeled as vegetarian or made with microbial or vegetable rennet, it is suitable for vegetarians. Some brands, such as Tillamook, offer a wide range of vegetarian cheeses, making it easier for consumers to find vegetarian options. Additionally, some health food stores and specialty grocery stores may carry a wider selection of vegetarian cheese options.
It is worth noting that the regulations and labeling practices for cheese may vary depending on the region. For example, in the United States, cheesemakers are not required to follow traditional recipes, allowing them to use any enzyme source they prefer. This flexibility can make it challenging for consumers to determine whether a particular cheese is vegetarian-friendly. In contrast, European markets may have different standards and regulations, potentially affecting the availability and labeling of vegetarian cheese options.
For those who follow a strict vegetarian diet, it is essential to be vigilant when selecting cheese products. By reading labels carefully, seeking out brands that offer vegetarian options, and exploring specialty stores, vegetarians can find suitable cheese choices, including vegetarian-friendly white cheddar cheese.
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Some brands offer vegetarian white cheddar
White cheddar cheese may not always be vegetarian-friendly. Traditional cheddar cheese is made with animal-derived rennet, obtained from the stomachs of calves. However, some brands do offer vegetarian white cheddar options.
For instance, Tillamook produces a variety of vegetarian cheeses, including cheddar. Other brands that offer vegetarian cheese options include Lucerne (Safeway), whose white cheeses are vegetarian, and Emborg, a Danish brand that makes vegetarian and vegan cheese. Kraft's Grated Parmesan and Swiss cheeses also use microbial rennet, although it's important to check the label for the presence of lipase, which is animal-derived.
Kirkland Signature (Costco) cheeses, except Parmigiano-Reggiano and Manchego, are made with microbial rennet and are suitable for vegetarians. Laughing Cow and Trader Joe's also offer vegetarian-friendly cheeses. Additionally, some recipes for vegan sharp cheddar cheese are available online, which use cashews as a base ingredient to achieve a creamy, tangy, and crumbly texture.
When shopping for vegetarian white cheddar, it's important to read the labels carefully. If the packaging does not explicitly state that the cheese is made with non-animal rennet or is vegetarian-friendly, it is likely not suitable for a strict vegetarian diet. Some companies may use vague terms like “enzymes" without specifying the source, so it may be necessary to contact customer support for clarification.
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How to make vegan white cheddar at home
Traditional cheddar cheese is made with animal-derived rennet, obtained from the stomachs of calves. However, many varieties are now produced using microbial or vegetable rennet, making them vegetarian-friendly.
If you are craving vegan white cheddar, you can make it at home with just a few simple ingredients. Here is a recipe for vegan white cheddar that you can try:
Ingredients:
- Cashews
- Lemon juice
- Refined coconut oil
- Nutritional yeast
- Cornstarch/tapioca starch
- Paprika
- Turmeric
- Salt
- Agar agar powder
- Water
Instructions:
- Softening the cashews by either boiling or soaking them. To boil, add the cashews to a small pot, cover with water, and boil for about 10 minutes until tender. To soak, cover the cashews with water and let them soak for 4 hours or longer.
- Drain and rinse the cashews.
- In a blender, add the cashews, lemon juice, coconut oil, nutritional yeast, cornstarch/tapioca starch, paprika, turmeric, salt, and 1 cup of water. Blend until smooth.
- In a small pot, add the remaining 1 cup of water and the agar agar powder. Bring to a boil and stir until the powder is dissolved.
- Quickly pour the agar agar mixture into the blender with the other ingredients and blend.
- Pour the blended mixture into a prepared dish and refrigerate until set.
- Store the vegan cheddar wrapped in paper towels and plastic wrap or in a container. Consume within a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
This vegan cheddar cheese is perfect for snacking, grilled cheese sandwiches, or adding to a platter with crackers and grapes. It can be grated, melted, or spread on crackers. You can also add ingredients like white miso, vegan lactic acid, or kalamata olives to give it an extra salty and tangy flavor.
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How to store white cheddar
White cheddar cheese is not always vegetarian. Traditional cheddar cheese is made with animal-derived rennet, obtained from the stomachs of calves. However, some varieties of cheddar cheese are now produced using microbial or vegetable rennet, making them vegetarian-friendly. To ensure your white cheddar cheese is vegetarian, look for labels that explicitly state that the cheese is made with non-animal rennet.
Now, here is a guide on how to store white cheddar cheese:
Storing white cheddar cheese is important to ensure it maintains its flavour and texture. Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese, which means it has a higher moisture content than hard cheeses like Parmesan and Gouda. As such, it requires proper storage to prevent spoilage. Here are some steps to follow when storing white cheddar cheese:
- Wrapping: Start by wrapping the cheese in wax or parchment paper. This creates a barrier that helps protect the cheese from moisture loss and absorbs any excess oil or moisture. You can also use reusable containers to store the wrapped cheese, which can help extend its shelf life. Avoid using plastic wrap directly on the cheese, as it can trap moisture and accelerate spoilage.
- Storage location: Once wrapped, place the cheese in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This area of the fridge has a cold and stable temperature, ideal for cheese storage.
- Shelf life: White cheddar cheese has a shorter shelf life compared to harder cheeses. It will typically last a few weeks in the fridge. Examine the cheese regularly for any signs of spoilage, such as an off odour, a slimy or wet surface texture, or the presence of mould.
- Mould: If mould appears on the cheese, it does not necessarily mean the entire block is spoiled. For semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, mould typically does not penetrate far into the cheese. Cut off at least one inch around and below the mouldy spot before consuming the rest of the cheese. However, always be cautious and discard the cheese if there are any doubts about its safety.
- Re-wrapping: Each time you use the cheese, re-wrap it with a fresh piece of wax or parchment paper to maintain its freshness. This helps to reduce exposure to air and slows down the ageing process.
By following these steps, you can effectively store your white cheddar cheese and enjoy it at its best for a longer period.
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Vegetarian-friendly substitutes for white cheddar
White cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its smooth flavour and creamy texture. It is often used in dishes where a more delicate flavour is desired. However, traditional cheddar cheese is made with animal-derived rennet, which is obtained from the stomach of calves, making it non-vegetarian.
If you are looking for vegetarian-friendly substitutes for white cheddar, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you can opt for cheddar cheese varieties produced using microbial or vegetable rennet, which are suitable for vegetarians. Some brands that offer vegetarian-friendly cheddar include Tillamook, Follow Your Heart, Miyoko's, and Emborg. These cheeses typically state on their labels that they are made with non-animal rennet, so be sure to read the ingredient list carefully.
Additionally, there are several vegan cheese options that can serve as substitutes for white cheddar in various dishes. Vegan cheeses are made with plant-based ingredients instead of animal milk and are widely available in different forms, such as shreds, slices, and sauces. Some recommended vegan cheddar options include:
- Violife Mature Cheddar Slices: Soft, flavourful, and meltable.
- Daiya Cutting Board Collection Shreds: An improved version of their classic shredded cheese, with a good melt and taste.
- Parmela Creamery Shreds: Aged shredded cheddar-style cheese made from cashew milk that melts well.
If you're looking for a more general-purpose cheese to replace white cheddar in snacks, sandwiches, or cooking, there are a few vegetarian-friendly options:
- Double Gloucester Cheese: A hard, slightly firmer, and yellow cheese with a strong, nutty flavour. It can be used as a substitute for white cheddar in many recipes, but you may need to adjust the amount used due to its stronger flavour.
- Colby Cheese: A milder-flavoured cheese that is a good option for those who don't like the strong taste of cheddar. It is commonly used in dishes like macaroni and cheese, burgers, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Cantal Cheese: This semi-hard cheese has a creamy texture and a sweet to strong flavour, depending on its age. It is excellent for grating over dishes, pairing with fruits and nuts, or melting on pizzas, soups, and gratins.
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Frequently asked questions
Traditional cheddar cheese is made with animal-derived rennet, obtained from the stomach of calves. However, some cheddar cheese varieties are now produced using microbial or vegetable rennet, making them vegetarian-friendly.
If you are unsure, look for labels that explicitly state that the cheese is made with non-animal rennet.
Yes, Tillamook makes a vegetarian white cheddar cheese. Lucerne (Safeway) brand cheese also makes vegetarian white cheddar cheese.
Yes, there are recipes for making vegan white cheddar cheese at home. These recipes typically involve blending a few easy-to-find ingredients in a food processor and then chilling the mixture in the fridge to set.
Yes, there are pre-made vegan dishes that include white cheddar cheese, such as Banza's vegan white cheddar shells.
