Is Mozzarella Cheese OK for Vegetarians? How to Check for Rennet

January 5, 2026 •

4 min read

While traditional mozzarella production often relies on animal-derived rennet, an estimated 80% of industrially produced cheeses in some regions now use microbial rennet. This means that determining if mozzarella cheese is ok for vegetarians requires a careful look at the ingredients list for specific enzyme types.

Quick Summary

The vegetarian status of mozzarella depends on the coagulant used during production. Many brands now use microbial or plant-based rennet, but traditional versions contain animal rennet. Label reading is crucial.

Key Points

Check the Label: Always look for "microbial rennet," "vegetarian rennet," or a vegetarian symbol in the ingredients list to confirm suitability.
Avoid Animal Rennet: Traditional rennet is sourced from the stomach lining of calves and is not vegetarian.
Modern Production: The majority of mass-produced mozzarella today uses microbial rennet, making it vegetarian-friendly.
Identify Warnings: Labels that list only "rennet" or "enzymes" without specifying the source are most likely not vegetarian.
Explore Vegan Alternatives: If you are uncertain or avoid all dairy, many excellent plant-based mozzarella options are now available.
Traditional vs. Modern: Be especially cautious with imported or artisanal Italian mozzarella, which may still use traditional animal rennet.

For many vegetarians, cheese is a staple food, but the presence of a hidden animal byproduct can make some cheese varieties off-limits. The key ingredient in question is rennet, an enzyme used to curdle milk during the cheese-making process. Traditional rennet comes from the stomach lining of young animals, which is not suitable for a vegetarian diet. However, modern food technology has introduced vegetarian alternatives, and with the growing popularity of plant-based eating, many manufacturers have switched to animal-free options.

Understanding the Different Types of Rennet

Not all rennet is created equal. Knowing the difference is the first step in confirming if your favorite mozzarella is vegetarian. The three main types are animal, microbial, and vegetable rennet.

Animal Rennet

This is the traditional form of rennet, extracted from the fourth stomach of a calf, lamb, or goat. The active enzymes, primarily chymosin, help coagulate the milk into solid curds. Since its production requires the slaughter of young animals, any cheese made with animal rennet is not vegetarian.

Microbial Rennet

With increasing demand for vegetarian products, food scientists developed microbial rennet, an enzyme derived from fungi or mold. This type of rennet is widely used in commercial, mass-produced cheeses due to its cost-effectiveness and vegetarian suitability. Its use is a major reason why much of the mozzarella available today is vegetarian-friendly.

Vegetable Rennet

Some cheesemakers use vegetable-based enzymes derived from plants like cardoon thistles, artichokes, or fig leaves to coagulate milk. While less common in mass production than microbial rennet, this option also produces a vegetarian cheese.

The Crucial Art of Label Reading

To ensure the mozzarella you buy is vegetarian, reading the ingredient label is non-negotiable. Here's a breakdown of what to look for and what to avoid:

Safe Language: Phrases like “microbial rennet,” “vegetable rennet,” or “non-animal rennet” indicate a vegetarian product. Many products will also state “suitable for vegetarians” explicitly on the packaging.
Red Flags: If the label simply lists “rennet” or “enzymes” without further clarification, it's safer to assume it's animal-derived, especially for imported or artisanal varieties. Traditional European mozzarella, in particular, may use animal rennet unless specified otherwise.
Look for Certifications: Some products carry a Vegetarian Society or similar certification logo, making identification even easier.

Comparison: Traditional vs. Vegetarian vs. Vegan Mozzarella


Feature	Traditional Mozzarella	Vegetarian Mozzarella	Vegan Mozzarella
Rennet Type	Animal Rennet (calf, lamb)	Microbial or Vegetable Rennet	None (Dairy-free)
Milk Source	Cow's Milk or Buffalo's Milk	Cow's Milk or Buffalo's Milk	Plant-based (cashews, tofu, soy)
Vegetarian-Friendly?	No	Yes	Yes (for vegans too)
Melting Properties	Excellent stretch and melt	Varies by brand, many have good melt	Can vary significantly, some melt well
Flavor Profile	Classic, milky, and fresh	Generally very similar to traditional	Varies greatly, can have nutty or subtle flavors

The Rise of Plant-Based Mozzarella

For those who follow a stricter diet or want to avoid dairy altogether, vegan mozzarella has become a popular and accessible option. These alternatives are made from various plant-based ingredients and are completely free of animal products.

Common Ingredients in Vegan Mozzarella

Nuts: Cashews and almonds are often used for their creamy texture.
Soy: Tofu and soy yogurt can form the base for a soft, fresh-style vegan cheese.
Starches: Tapioca starch is frequently included to achieve a stretchy, melty consistency.
Coconut Oil: Adds richness and helps with texture.

Many brands offer pre-shredded or block-style vegan mozzarella that melts well on pizza and other baked dishes. Some popular vegan brands include Miyoko's Creamery and Follow Your Heart.

Making an Informed Choice

Whether you are a new vegetarian or simply more mindful of your dietary choices, finding vegetarian-friendly mozzarella is simple once you know what to look for. By prioritizing brands that use microbial or vegetable rennet, or by exploring the growing selection of plant-based options, you can enjoy delicious mozzarella without compromising your values.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether mozzarella cheese is suitable for vegetarians is not a simple yes or no answer; it depends entirely on the type of rennet used in its production. While traditional methods rely on animal-derived rennet, the vast majority of modern, commercially available mozzarella is made with microbial or vegetable rennet, making it safe for vegetarians. The golden rule is to always check the ingredient label for specific mention of non-animal rennet or a clear vegetarian certification. For those seeking a dairy-free option, a wide range of delicious vegan mozzarella alternatives are now available. By staying informed and reading labels, you can confidently enjoy your favorite caprese salad or pizza.

This article is for informational purposes and should not replace dietary advice from a qualified professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rennet is an enzyme used to coagulate milk, traditionally sourced from the stomach lining of young calves, making it an animal byproduct unsuitable for a vegetarian diet.

Look for "rennet" in the ingredients list. If it doesn't specify "microbial" or "vegetarian" and lacks a vegetarian symbol, it is safest to assume it's animal-derived.

Not necessarily. While some fresh cheeses can be made with acid instead of rennet, many traditional European varieties can still use animal rennet. Always check the label.

Yes, many brands offer plant-based mozzarella made from ingredients like nuts, soy, or starches, which are completely dairy and animal-rennet-free.

Traditional Buffalo mozzarella often uses animal rennet. You must check the specific product's label, as some modern producers may use vegetarian methods.

Microbial rennet is a vegetarian-friendly enzyme produced by fungi or microorganisms, used as a non-animal substitute for traditional rennet.

Many food products suitable for vegetarians display a vegetarian certification logo, or include explicit text, such as "suitable for vegetarians," on the label.

Ethical vegetarians do not consume animal flesh, but many still eat dairy products. The issue with mozzarella for vegetarians is only the use of animal rennet, not the milk itself. Vegans, however, avoid all dairy.