what is in vegan cheese

Vegan cheese is a dairy-free alternative to traditional animal-based cheese. It is made using vegetable proteins, nuts, seeds, and various other natural ingredients like peas or arrowroot. The most common ingredients used in vegan cheese include soy, cashews, almonds, macadamias, and tofu. Vegan cheese is made through similar steps to traditional cheese-making. First, plant proteins are separated from overall plant matter, with the plant protein sources from one of the foods above. Most commonly, bacteria is used to separate out the plant proteins. Then, thickening agents, oils, and other ingredients are added to help create a more cheese-like consistency. These added ingredients also improve the taste and, later, the fermenting steps. Vegan cheese comes in many styles, including cream cheese, blocks of cheese, and soft spreadable cheese. Vegan cheese is seen as a healthier alternative to traditional cheese as it contains healthy fats but no cholesterol, rennet, or any other gross ingredients found in cheese made from cow’s milk.