Can Vegans Eat Philadelphia Cream Cheese? Understanding the Options

November 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2023 report, the global vegan food market is experiencing rapid growth, including the introduction of popular brands creating dairy-free versions of classic products. This shift is good news for those asking, 'Can vegans eat Philadelphia cream cheese?', as the company now offers a plant-based spread to cater to the market.

Quick Summary

The traditional Philadelphia cream cheese, made with milk and cream, is not suitable for vegans. However, the company has introduced a line of plant-based, non-dairy spreads in the US and UK made with ingredients like coconut oil, fava bean protein, and oats, providing a vegan-friendly option.

Key Points

Traditional vs. Vegan: Standard Philadelphia cream cheese is not vegan because it is made with milk and cream.
New Plant-Based Options: Philadelphia now offers a dairy-free, plant-based cream cheese alternative for vegans.
Ingredient Variations: The plant-based version uses different formulations in the US (coconut oil, fava bean protein) and UK (almonds, oats).
Label Verification: Vegans should look for explicit 'plant-based' or 'suitable for vegans' labeling, as traditional versions are still widely available.
Alternative Brands: Many other brands like Kite Hill, Violife, and Miyoko's also offer diverse vegan cream cheese options.
Checking Ingredients: Always read ingredient lists for non-vegan components like milk, casein, or whey, even if a product is labeled 'dairy-free'.
Nutritional Differences: Vegan cream cheese is typically cholesterol-free and lower in saturated fat unless coconut oil-based, while regular dairy options contain more protein.
Recyclable Packaging: Philadelphia promotes that its new plant-based tubs are designed to be recyclable.

The Traditional Answer: Why Classic Philadelphia is Not Vegan

For many years, the answer to "can vegans eat Philadelphia cream cheese?" was a definitive no. This is because the original product is made from dairy ingredients—specifically milk and cream. Veganism is a lifestyle that seeks to exclude all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty, which extends to avoiding products derived from animals, including dairy. Since traditional cream cheese is a dairy product, it is not considered vegan-friendly. The main ingredients of the classic Philadelphia Original, as per the packaging, include pasteurized milk, cream, and whey protein concentrate. These are all direct animal by-products that vegans avoid.

The Rise of Plant-Based Options

In recent years, the food industry has seen a massive surge in demand for plant-based alternatives. Responding to this growing market, Kraft Heinz, the company behind Philadelphia, launched a plant-based version of its iconic cream cheese. This development has fundamentally changed the conversation for vegans, offering them a long-awaited option. The availability of this product has made it possible for vegans to enjoy a familiar brand on their bagels, in recipes, and for other uses, without compromising their dietary ethics. The introduction of the vegan variety is an important milestone for the brand, making it more accessible to a broader range of consumers.

Unpacking the Plant-Based Philadelphia

So, what exactly is in the vegan version of Philadelphia cream cheese? The ingredients vary slightly depending on the market. In the US, the plant-based spread is made with ingredients like coconut oil, fava bean protein, and modified potato starch, designed to replicate the creamy texture and flavor of the original. Meanwhile, the UK version uses a base of almonds and oats. Both formulations are crafted to deliver the smooth, rich taste and spreadability that Philadelphia is known for, without any dairy components. The company has put extensive research and testing into ensuring the taste and texture mirror the original, a point of pride for their product development teams.

Other Vegan Cream Cheese Alternatives

While the introduction of a plant-based Philadelphia is a welcome addition, it is not the only vegan cream cheese on the market. A variety of brands offer their own dairy-free versions, often made from different bases. These alternatives provide vegans with a wide range of flavors and textures to choose from. Common bases include nuts like cashews or almonds, coconut oil, and soy. Each base contributes a distinct flavor profile and consistency, so a vegan might prefer one brand over another depending on their personal taste and intended use. Popular brands include Kite Hill, Violife, Miyoko's, Tofutti, and Daiya.

How to Tell if a Product is Vegan

For new vegans or those unsure about ingredients, checking labels is crucial. A certified vegan label or a clear "Suitable for Vegans" text is the most reliable indicator. However, careful reading of the ingredient list is also essential. Non-vegan ingredients to watch out for include casein, whey, and modified milk ingredients. Even products labeled "dairy-free" or "lactose-free" are not always vegan, as they may contain other animal by-products, though these labels are reliable for the plant-based Philadelphia. The list of allergens will often highlight milk if it is present.

Comparison: Traditional vs. Vegan Philadelphia

To understand the difference between the two products, here is a comparison table:


Feature	Traditional Philadelphia Cream Cheese	Plant-Based Philadelphia Spread
Key Ingredients	Milk, cream, whey protein concentrate	Coconut oil, fava bean protein, modified potato starch (US); Almonds, oats (UK)
Vegan Status	No (Contains dairy)	Yes (Made from plant-based ingredients)
Lactose Content	Contains lactose	Lactose-free
Cholesterol	Contains dietary cholesterol	Cholesterol-free
Protein Content	Generally higher (approx. 2g per serving)	Generally lower, can vary by region/formulation
Saturated Fat	High due to dairy content	Can be high depending on the base (e.g., coconut oil)
Usage	Spreads, baking, dips	Same as traditional, designed for versatility

Conclusion: Making the Vegan Choice

While the original Philadelphia cream cheese is not an option for those on a vegan diet, the brand's response to the growing plant-based market has been a positive development. The availability of Philadelphia's dedicated plant-based spreads means vegans no longer have to miss out on the familiar taste and texture of their favorite cream cheese brand. For those with dietary restrictions or ethical preferences, this new product provides a mainstream, accessible choice. Furthermore, the wider availability of other vegan cream cheese brands offers a broad spectrum of alternatives, allowing vegans to find the perfect spread for their needs. Always remember to check the label for certification or carefully read the ingredients to ensure the product aligns with a vegan lifestyle.

Visit Vegan.com for additional vegan cream cheese brand options and insights

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Philadelphia now produces a line of plant-based, non-dairy spreads. In the US, it's called 'Plant-Based Non-Dairy Spread' and is available in Original, Strawberry, and Chive & Onion flavors.

The plant-based Philadelphia spread uses different ingredients depending on the region. The US version is made from coconut oil, fava bean protein, and potato starch, while the UK version uses a blend of almonds and oats.

The most reliable way is to check for a 'Suitable for Vegans' label or read the ingredient list for any dairy-derived ingredients such as milk, cream, whey, or casein. The allergen information often highlights milk content.

The original Philadelphia cream cheese is generally suitable for vegetarians, as it does not contain animal rennet. However, it is not vegan as it contains milk and cream.

In the US, it is available at major retailers and grocery stores nationwide. For example, in the UK, it can be found at stores like Tesco and Ocado. Availability may vary based on location.

Vegan cream cheese is cholesterol-free but often has lower protein content than its dairy counterpart. The saturated fat content can be similar, especially if made with coconut oil, so checking the nutritional label is recommended.

Other popular vegan cream cheese brands include Kite Hill, Violife, Miyoko's, Tofutti, and Daiya. Many of these are made from nut bases like cashews or from coconut oil and are widely available.