Types of Vegan Cheese
From preparing an omelet to making a toasted sandwich, cheese often brings a meal together. Yet those following a vegan or plant-based diet avoid this dairy product entirely but may seek out alternatives. Initially, soy was the main ingredient in most vegan cheese products but now the selection has greatly diversified. The result delivers more…
What Is Vegan Cheese?
As more people adopt a vegan diet or flexitarian lifestyle, demand has grown for meat and dairy substitutes. Vegan cheese has been around for decades and today, choices range from traditional soy to nut-based products. The taste and experience have also improved. Vegan cheese now softens for better meltability and can replicate the taste and…
Pros and Cons of Plant-Based Milk Alternatives
Whether due to lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet, not everyone drinks dairy milk. Alternatives may seem more appealing to these individuals but can trigger allergies or digestive issues, including from nut or soy-based ingredients. At the same time, this group of products has a different nutritional profile than traditional dairy. Whether you’re on…
How to Get Enough Protein as a Vegan or Vegetarian
Vegans and vegetarians are often met with the question: “How will you get enough protein?” Two myths persist around protein: one, that meat is the superior source and two, that vegetarian and vegan diets are low in nutrients. Yet those following either of these diet lower their cholesterol levels, fat intake, diabetes and heart disease…
Different Types of Veggie Burgers
The market for plant-based burgers has experienced significant growth over the past several years, including the popularity of veggie burgers. As the variety continues to grow, understand the more common types of veggie burgers available before your next backyard barbecue or trip to our diner! Mixed Vegetables and Grains Veggie burgers made from various vegetables…
Are Plant-Based and Vegan the Same Thing?
Whether out of concern for animals, sustainability or your own health, interest in vegan and plant-based diets has picked up steam over the past few decades. Five percent of Americans consider themselves vegetarian and two percent follow a vegan diet. At the same time, growing information about the effects of the meat industry on the…
Benefits of Beans as a Protein Source
Much of the conversation around plant-based foods involves replicating the texture and taste of popular meats like chicken and beef. Yet the variety of existing plant-based protein sources get sidelined, including beans! While not a complete protein, beans provide a high amount per serving and are also a good source of fiber, vitamins, phytochemicals and…
The Best Protein Sources for Vegans
Lack of protein is a common concern about vegetarian and vegan diets. Yet going meatless and dairy-free can supply your body with sufficient protein if you take a strategic and knowledgeable approach. What Is Protein? These essential nutrients are made up of 22 amino acids that support your body’s systems, help regulate blood sugar, energy…
Common Vegan Baking Substitutes
When you make a cake or batch of cookies, the recipe typically includes eggs, milk, butter, flour and baking powder. Yet, these dairy and animal products are not part of a vegan diet. It’s possible to bake while maintaining a vegan or plant-based lifestyle! Consider these common ingredient substitutes to update your favorite dessert recipes….
How to Use Different Types of Tofu
Tofu was one of the first meat alternatives in American diets, introduced toward the middle of the 20th century. Yet this vegetarian staple, made from curdled and pressed soybean milk, has been used in Asian diets for centuries, with origins as far back as 950 A.D. in China. Today, the U.S. market includes multiple types…