Is Bettergoods Exclusively Vegan?
Contrary to some assumptions, Bettergoods is not an exclusively vegan brand. It is a new, chef-inspired private-label food line from Walmart that is structured around three distinct product categories: culinary experiences, plant-based options, and "made without" items. This means the product line includes both traditional food items containing animal products and a variety of innovative vegan options. Therefore, shoppers must be diligent and check the product labeling, as not every item under the Bettergoods name is vegan or even vegetarian. The inclusion of a robust plant-based line, however, represents a significant move by Walmart to provide accessible and affordable vegan alternatives to a wider audience.
How to Identify Bettergoods Vegan Products
For those specifically seeking vegan options, Walmart has made the identification process straightforward. Bettergoods' plant-based items are purposefully packaged in green to stand out on the shelves. In addition to the color-coded packaging, the labels will explicitly state "plant-based" or "vegan friendly" on the product. Despite this, it is crucial to read the full ingredient list and any allergy warnings, especially if you have a severe allergy. For example, some Bettergoods chocolates, while made with vegan ingredients, may have a "may contain traces of milk" warning due to shared manufacturing equipment. This level of scrutiny is standard for navigating mixed-market brands.
Popular Bettergoods Vegan Options
The plant-based pillar of the Bettergoods brand includes a wide and growing selection of products. Below is a list of some of the popular vegan items you can find:
- Oat Milk Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts: These indulgent treats come in several flavors, such as Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, and Mint Chocolate Chip, and are known for their creamy texture.
- Plant-Based Macaroni and Cheeze: Available in both Original and White Cheddar styles, this boxed meal is a convenient and satisfying option.
- Plant-Based Chick'n Nuggets: Found in the frozen food section, these nuggets have received positive reviews for their flavor and texture.
- Plant-Based Shredded Cheese Alternatives: These cashew-based cheeses are designed to melt and pull like dairy cheese, making them ideal for pizzas, tacos, and more.
- Plant-Based Milk: The brand offers different varieties of non-dairy milk, including both almond and oat milk options.
- Confectionery: Items like the Plant-Based Oat Chocolate Bar with Cherries and Pistachios are a delightful vegan treat.
Bettergoods vs. Other Plant-Based Brands
To illustrate where Bettergoods fits into the broader plant-based market, here is a comparison with other popular vegan and mixed brands.
| Feature | Bettergoods (Walmart) | Daiya | Trader Joe's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand Type | Mixed-market private label with a dedicated plant-based pillar | Exclusively plant-based and dairy-free | Mixed-market grocery store with many dedicated vegan products |
| Product Focus | Chef-inspired, affordable, across culinary, plant-based, and 'made without' categories | Specializes in dairy-free products like cheese, cheezecake, and yogurt | Known for trendy, unique products across all categories, including many vegan items |
| Price Point | Generally very affordable, with many items under $5 | Mid-range price point, often comparable to other specialty vegan brands | Mid-range to premium pricing, known for competitive value |
| Identification | Green-labeled "plant-based" or "vegan friendly" packaging | Often features prominent "dairy-free" or "vegan" branding on the package | May have "vegan" written on the label, but requires reading the ingredients list carefully |
| Cross-Contamination | Possible for non-dedicated lines; check labels for disclaimers | Generally produced in a dedicated facility, but always check for specifics | Varies widely by product; label reading is a must |
| Availability | Exclusive to Walmart stores nationwide | Widely available in major grocery chains across North America | Exclusive to Trader Joe's stores |
Why Walmart Launched Bettergoods
Walmart's decision to launch the Bettergoods brand, and specifically to include a prominent plant-based pillar, is a strategic response to evolving consumer preferences. As more consumers explore plant-based diets for reasons ranging from health to sustainability, retailers are under pressure to offer accessible and appealing options. The Bettergoods brand provides Walmart with a way to capture a share of this growing market by offering innovative and affordable alternatives to more expensive branded products. This makes plant-based eating more accessible for a wider range of customers, helping to normalize it as a mainstream dietary choice.
Conclusion
To reiterate, Bettergoods is not a vegan brand, but it is a major market player offering a wide array of vegan products. The brand's clear labeling and color-coding make it easier for consumers to navigate their choices. The most important step for any vegan shopper is to remain vigilant: always check for the specific "plant-based" or "vegan friendly" markings and read the ingredients to ensure the product meets your dietary standards, especially regarding potential cross-contamination concerns. Overall, Bettergoods represents a positive shift towards more affordable and accessible plant-based options in the retail space.(https://vegnews.com/walmarts-plant-based-house-label)
