The global vegan cheese market is on a trajectory to nearly double in size, with projections estimating it will reach $1.4 billion by 2031. This remarkable growth is fueled by increasing consumer demand for plant-based non-dairy cheese alternatives, driven by health, ethical, and environmental concerns accounting for 16% annual growth.
Vegan cheese, made from ingredients such as almonds, cashews, oats, and coconuts, has come a long way from its early days. It’s now tastier, more versatile, and widely available, meeting consumer needs for alternatives to traditional dairy. Ricotta-style vegan cheese is seeing particularly high demand, as it appeals to home cooks and foodies looking to elevate plant-based recipes without compromising on flavour.
Source: © Olgacanals | Dreamstime.com - Selection of Vegan Cheeses
In the UK, the surge in plant-based living is opening doors for innovative vegan cheese makers like La Fauxmargerie, Donna Garfield's prize winning artisan range and the established Bute Island Cheese With an already booming vegan food market, British brands have an opportunity to expand into premium categories or offer more accessible options for the growing number of flexitarians. Local brands are experimenting with bold flavours and better textures to win over a loyal customer base, from artisan cheese lovers to everyday shoppers seeking dairy-free staples.
Source: Garfields Vegan Blue Cheese - Bute Island Cream Cheese - La Fauxmagerie artisan cheeses
New Zealand, already renowned for its traditional dairy exports, is ripe for vegan cheese innovation. Local producers like Savour and OneLove Planet Cheese are already leveraging the country’s reputation for high-quality products to create premium plant-based alternatives. As global consumers increasingly look for sustainable food options, vegan cheese from New Zealand could find success on international shelves as well as domestically.
Australia’s vegan cheese market is steadily growing, with consumers embracing plant-based options alongside their mainstream dairy counterparts. Local brands are already making a splash, offering cheeses that melt, slice, and pair beautifully with everything from pizza to crackers. With a growing number of Australians embracing vegan and flexitarian diets, the demand for accessible and flavourful vegan cheeses is only set to increase. See the top ten 2024 Australian vegan cheeses here.
For consumers, the rise of vegan cheese means a more stable availability, variety and improved quality on supermarket shelves. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply curious about trying plant-based options, the growing competition in this space promises better-tasting, healthier, and more affordable products. From nut-based bries to oat milk mozzarella, there’s something for everyone.
This is great news not only for your tastebuds but also for the planet. With sustainability a key driver behind the shift to non-dairy plant-based foods, buying vegan cheese is an easy way to support a greener future.
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