Taste and Texture: A Mixed Bag of Reviews
The flavor profile of Better Goods vegan cheese varies depending on the product line and formulation. The popular shredded cheddar and mozzarella blend receives generally positive marks for its cheesy, tangy flavor that mimics traditional dairy. However, some reviewers note a mild, processed aftertaste, which can be a common issue with vegan cheese alternatives. The meltability is a point of contention among consumers, especially after a recipe change occurred in 2024.
The Controversial Recipe Change
Initial formulations of the Better Goods shredded vegan cheese used a base of potato starch and coconut oil. This version was widely praised for its excellent melting performance, with many customers noting its perfect creaminess when used in dishes like mac and cheese or on pizzas. However, Walmart later changed the recipe to be cashew-based, which led to significant changes in texture.
Customer reviews reflect this shift dramatically. The cashew-based version is described as having a different texture and not melting as nicely as the previous coconut oil formula. While the flavor was reportedly unaffected, the change disappointed many long-time fans who valued the superior melt of the older recipe. The switch also raised major health concerns for individuals with nut allergies, as the new formula posed a serious risk to those who had been safely consuming the product before.
Comparison: Better Goods vs. Popular Vegan Cheese Brands
To better understand where Better Goods stands, let's compare it to other popular vegan cheese brands on the market.
| Feature | Better Goods (New Formula) | Violife | Daiya (New Formula) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Primarily Walmart stores | Widely available at many grocery stores | Widely available at many grocery stores |
| Price | Generally very affordable ($4+) | Mid-range to high-end | Mid-range |
| Main Ingredient | Cashew base | Coconut oil base | Cassava and coconut oil base |
| Melting | Mixed reviews; can be inconsistent and sticky | Highly regarded for its superior melt | Improved melt compared to older formula |
| Flavor | Mild, tangy, nutty notes | Tangy, with a wide range of flavor profiles | Savory, with noticeable nutritional yeast flavor |
| Texture | Pliable when cold, can be sticky when melted | Smooth, creamy, and less grainy | Smooth, less waxy than older recipes |
| Allergen Info | Contains tree nuts (cashews) | Generally nut-free, check specific products | Free of most major allergens |
What to Consider Before Buying Better Goods
Nut Allergy Warning
Perhaps the most important factor to consider is the recipe change to a cashew base. For anyone with a nut allergy, especially those who previously enjoyed the coconut-oil based product, this is a serious health risk. Always check the ingredient list on the packaging, as reports indicate the labeling of the change was not always prominent.
Intended Use
Better Goods cheese receives much higher praise when used in applications where its melting properties are less critical. For example, some customers report it works perfectly on salads or on top of dishes where a perfect stretch isn't necessary. However, for applications like pizza where a strong, gooey melt is desired, alternatives like Violife or even the newer Daiya formulas might be a better bet. Some have found success with the Better Goods mac and cheese kits, praising the creamy sauce, but experiences differ greatly.
Budget and Accessibility
One of the biggest draws of the Better Goods brand is its affordability, with prices often significantly lower than competitors. As a Walmart exclusive, it's also highly accessible for many shoppers. This makes it a great entry point for those new to vegan cheese who want to experiment without a high upfront cost.
Customer Feedback
Online reviews, particularly from the r/dairyfree and r/vegan subreddits, offer a valuable snapshot of public opinion. While some users praise the taste and price, many others express frustration over the recipe change and the inconsistent melt. This highlights a divided user base and the importance of managing expectations before purchasing.
Conclusion
So, is Better Goods vegan cheese good? The answer is that it depends on specific needs and expectations. For those seeking an affordable, flavorful vegan cheese for dishes like salads, it can be a great option. However, its inconsistent melt and the significant, potentially dangerous, recipe change to a cashew base mean it's not a universal solution for all vegan cheese needs. For consumers with nut allergies or those looking for a consistently excellent melting performance, competitors like Violife remain a safer and more reliable choice. Always check the ingredients and consider your intended use before making a purchase.
Tips for Cooking with Better Goods Vegan Cheese
- Embrace the Melt: For best melting results on dishes like pizza, place the shreds directly on the dough before adding sauce and toppings to shield it from direct, high heat.
- Perfect for Salads: When using on salads or cold applications, the taste and texture are less likely to disappoint compared to melted recipes.
- Enhance the Flavor: Some users enhance the mac and cheese version by adding nutritional yeast or other seasonings to boost the cheesy flavor.
- Check for Nuts: Absolutely verify the ingredients on the packaging if anyone in a household has a nut allergy, as the recipe has been changed to a cashew base.
- Adjust Expectations: Understand that vegan cheese will not behave exactly like dairy cheese, especially regarding melt and stretch. Better Goods is a decent budget option, but you may need to adjust your cooking methods accordingly.
A Final Word on Better Goods
The brand has carved out a niche as an affordable, accessible vegan option, primarily sold at Walmart. However, the recipe change has complicated its reputation, alienating some long-term customers and posing a risk to those with allergies. The core flavors remain generally agreeable, but its application is best suited for dishes where its specific melting characteristics are less critical. This brand may be a good entry point for newcomers, but experienced vegan cheese enthusiasts might prefer more consistent, higher-end alternatives.
Customer Loyalty and the Recipe Switch
The ingredient change was a major blow to customer loyalty, particularly within the allergy community. Reviews show a strong negative reaction from parents and individuals who depended on the previous coconut-based, nut-free formula. The frustration points to poor communication from the brand and the potential for a dangerous situation when regular customers assume a product's formula hasn't changed. This serves as a cautionary tale for both producers and consumers in the plant-based food market.
The Price-to-Performance Ratio
For many, the lower price point is a strong incentive to overlook some of the product's shortcomings. For casual use, like sprinkling on chili or tacos, the value proposition is hard to ignore. However, for special occasion meals or dishes where cheese is the star, the risk of a subpar melt or texture might not be worth the savings. Customers must weigh the cost against the desired outcome for their specific culinary needs.
The Evolving Vegan Cheese Market
The plant-based cheese market is rapidly evolving, with new brands and formulations appearing regularly. Better Goods is a reflection of this dynamic landscape, where affordability and accessibility are becoming increasingly important. Brands like Violife, Follow Your Heart, and Miyoko's Creamery offer more premium options with different strengths, from meltability to artisanal flavor. Better Goods fills a specific, budget-friendly role, but it faces stiff competition from companies that have perfected aspects like melting or overall texture. It is a stepping stone for many, but rarely the final destination for vegan cheese connoisseurs.
