Introduction
In recent years, the demand for lactose-free products has been on the rise, including lactose-free cheese. People with lactose intolerance or sensitivities often struggle to find suitable cheese options that are both delicious and safe for consumption. In the United Kingdom, there are several brands that offer high-quality lactose-free cheese alternatives. In this report, we will explore the top 10 lactose-free cheese brands in the UK, providing insights into their products, market presence, and financial performance.
1. Arla Lactofree
Overview
Arla Lactofree is one of the leading lactose-free cheese brands in the UK. They offer a range of cheese products, including cheddar and mozzarella, that are free from lactose. Arla Lactofree has gained popularity for its high-quality products and commitment to providing delicious alternatives for those with lactose intolerance.
Financial Data
While specific financial figures for Arla Lactofree are not publicly available, the brand is backed by the Arla Foods cooperative, one of the largest dairy companies in the world. This financial backing ensures the quality and consistency of Arla Lactofree products.
2. Violife
Overview
Violife is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of dairy-free and lactose-free cheese options. Their products are made from plant-based ingredients and are suitable for vegans as well. Violife has gained a strong following for its delicious and versatile cheese alternatives.
Financial Data
Violife is owned by Upfield, a global plant-based food company. Upfield reported revenues of €3.2 billion in 2020, highlighting the growth and success of its plant-based brands like Violife.
3. Applewood
Overview
Applewood is a popular brand in the UK known for its smoked dairy-free cheese options. While not specifically marketed as lactose-free, many of Applewood’s products are naturally low in lactose or free from lactose altogether, making them suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Financial Data
Specific financial data for Applewood is not publicly available, but the brand is owned by Norseland, a leading cheese producer in the UK. Norseland’s parent company, TINE SA, reported revenues of NOK 24.2 billion in 2020, reflecting the success of its cheese brands.
4. Tesco Free From
Overview
Tesco Free From is Tesco’s own-brand range of free-from products, including lactose-free cheese options. Tesco offers a variety of cheese alternatives, from cheddar to soft cheeses, catering to customers with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Financial Data
While specific financial data for Tesco Free From is not available, Tesco is one of the largest retailers in the UK, with reported revenues of £57.9 billion in 2020. The success of Tesco’s own-brand products like Free From demonstrates the demand for lactose-free options in the market.
5. Nush
Overview
Nush is a smaller brand that specializes in dairy-free and vegan cheese alternatives. Their products are made from cashew nuts and are free from lactose, making them suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Financial Data
Specific financial data for Nush is not publicly available, but the brand has gained a strong following for its high-quality and innovative dairy-free products. Nush’s focus on plant-based ingredients aligns with the growing trend towards more sustainable and ethical food choices.
6. Koko Dairy Free
Overview
Koko Dairy Free is a brand that specializes in coconut-based dairy alternatives, including lactose-free cheese options. Their products are free from dairy, lactose, and gluten, catering to individuals with various dietary restrictions.
Financial Data
Specific financial data for Koko Dairy Free is not publicly available, but the brand has gained popularity for its unique coconut-based products. Koko Dairy Free’s commitment to providing delicious and accessible dairy alternatives has contributed to its success in the market.
7. Bute Island Foods
Overview
Bute Island Foods is a UK-based company that specializes in dairy-free and vegan cheese alternatives. Their products are free from lactose, making them suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Bute Island Foods offers a variety of cheese options, from cheddar to blue cheese, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Financial Data
Specific financial data for Bute Island Foods is not publicly available, but the company has established itself as a leading provider of dairy-free cheese alternatives in the UK. Bute Island Foods’ focus on quality and innovation has helped them gain a loyal customer base and expand their product range over the years.
8. Follow Your Heart
Overview
Follow Your Heart is an international brand known for its plant-based and lactose-free cheese alternatives. Their products are made from non-GMO ingredients and are free from lactose, making them suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences. Follow Your Heart offers a wide range of cheese options, from shredded to sliced, providing versatility for various culinary applications.
Financial Data
Specific financial data for Follow Your Heart is not publicly available, but the brand has a strong presence in the plant-based food market, reflecting the increasing demand for dairy-free alternatives. Follow Your Heart’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing has resonated with consumers seeking more environmentally friendly food options.
9. Sheese
Overview
Sheese is a brand that specializes in dairy-free and vegan cheese alternatives, including lactose-free options. Their products are made from plant-based ingredients and are free from lactose, catering to individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Sheese offers a variety of cheese flavors, from mature cheddar to garlic and herb, providing diverse choices for consumers.
Financial Data
Specific financial data for Sheese is not publicly available, but the brand has gained recognition for its high-quality dairy-free products. Sheese’s commitment to providing delicious and accessible cheese alternatives has helped them establish a strong presence in the market and attract a loyal customer base.
10. Daiya
Overview
Daiya is a Canadian brand that offers dairy-free and lactose-free cheese alternatives. Their products are made from plant-based ingredients and are free from lactose, making them suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Daiya’s cheese alternatives are known for their meltability and rich flavor, making them popular choices for cooking and snacking.
Financial Data
Daiya is owned by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a Japanese multinational company. While specific financial data for Daiya is not publicly available, the brand has a strong presence in the dairy-free market, reflecting the demand for high-quality and flavorful cheese alternatives. Daiya’s focus on innovation and taste has helped them differentiate themselves in a competitive market landscape.
In conclusion, the lactose-free cheese market in the UK offers a variety of options for consumers with dietary restrictions or preferences. The top 10 brands highlighted in this report provide high-quality and delicious alternatives to traditional dairy cheese, catering to individuals with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or those seeking plant-based options. As the demand for lactose-free products continues to grow, these brands are well-positioned to meet the needs of a diverse and health-conscious consumer base.
