Introduction

Vegan cheese has become increasingly popular in recent years as more people are opting for plant-based alternatives to traditional dairy products. One of the main ingredients used in making vegan cheese is nuts, soy, and coconut. In this report, we will explore how vegan cheese is made from these ingredients, including the process, key players in the industry, and financial data.

Process of Making Vegan Cheese from Nuts, Soy, and Coconut

Nuts

Nuts such as cashews, almonds, and macadamia nuts are commonly used in making vegan cheese due to their creamy texture and rich flavor. To make nut-based vegan cheese, the nuts are first soaked in water to soften them. Then, they are blended with water, nutritional yeast, salt, and other flavorings to create a smooth, creamy base. The mixture is then strained to remove any remaining solids, resulting in a cheese-like consistency.

Soy

Soy is another popular ingredient used in making vegan cheese. Soybeans are first processed into soy milk, which is then fermented with probiotic cultures to create a tangy flavor similar to traditional cheese. The soy milk is then heated and combined with thickeners such as agar agar or tapioca starch to achieve the desired texture. The mixture is then allowed to set and mature, resulting in a firm and flavorful vegan cheese.

Coconut

Coconut is a versatile ingredient that can be used to make a variety of dairy-free products, including vegan cheese. Coconut milk is often used as a base for coconut-based vegan cheese, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor. To make coconut-based vegan cheese, coconut milk is combined with agar agar, nutritional yeast, and salt, then heated and allowed to set. The result is a smooth and creamy cheese alternative with a hint of coconut flavor.

Key Players in the Vegan Cheese Industry

Miyoko’s Creamery

Miyoko’s Creamery is a leading producer of vegan cheese made from nuts and other plant-based ingredients. The company was founded in 2014 by Miyoko Schinner, a renowned vegan chef and cookbook author. Miyoko’s Creamery offers a wide range of artisanal vegan cheeses, including cashew-based soft cheeses and aged nut cheeses. The company has seen significant growth in recent years, with sales reaching $30 million in 2020.

Violife

Violife is another major player in the vegan cheese industry, specializing in cheese alternatives made from coconut oil and other plant-based ingredients. The company was founded in Greece in 2015 and has since expanded its product line to include a variety of flavors and textures, including sliced cheese, grated cheese, and cream cheese. Violife has a strong presence in the European market and reported sales of €50 million in 2020.

Financial Data and Industry Insights

The global vegan cheese market is expected to reach $4.5 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate of 8.6%. This growth can be attributed to increasing consumer demand for plant-based alternatives, as well as improvements in taste and texture of vegan cheese products. Major players in the industry are investing in research and development to create innovative new products and expand their market reach.
In conclusion, vegan cheese made from nuts, soy, and coconut offers a delicious and cruelty-free alternative to traditional dairy cheese. With the rise of plant-based eating and growing consumer interest in sustainable food options, the vegan cheese industry is poised for continued growth and innovation. Companies like Miyoko’s Creamery and Violife are leading the way in providing high-quality vegan cheese products that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.