The Core Difference: Dairy vs. Plant-Based
The fundamental distinction between regular Nutella and Nutella Plant-Based lies in one ingredient: milk. The original Nutella formula includes skimmed milk powder, an animal-derived product that makes it unsuitable for vegans. For decades, this dairy content meant that those adhering to a strict vegan diet had to forgo the popular hazelnut spread entirely, turning instead to alternatives from other brands or homemade recipes.
Recognizing the growing market for plant-based foods, manufacturer Ferrero developed a new vegan-certified product to cater to a wider audience, including vegans and people with lactose intolerance. In this new formulation, the skimmed milk powder is replaced with a combination of chickpeas and rice syrup powder. This innovative blend was the result of extensive research and development, aimed at replicating the texture and delicate sweetness that milk powder provides in the original recipe.
Nutritional Breakdown of Nutella Varieties
Beyond the primary ingredient swap, a closer look at the nutritional labels reveals other subtle differences between the two products. While both are high in sugar and fat—with sugar being the first ingredient on the list for both—the plant-based version does offer some interesting variations.
Key Nutritional Differences per 100g
- Sugar Content: Nutella Plant-Based is notably lower in sugar, containing around 45.4g per 100g compared to the classic Nutella's 56.3g. This represents a nearly 20% reduction in sugar content.
- Fat Content: The vegan version has a slightly higher fat content at 31.8g per 100g, versus the original's 30.9g. This includes a minor increase in saturated fat.
- Protein: With the addition of chickpeas, Nutella Plant-Based offers a modest protein boost, at 6.8g per 100g compared to the classic's 6.3g.
- Calories and Carbs: The calorie and carbohydrate content are comparable, though the vegan version has slightly fewer carbohydrates overall.
Taste, Texture, and Ethical Considerations
According to taste tests, the vegan version is often described as having a more prominent, nutty flavor, while the original maintains a more classic chocolate-forward taste. The texture of the plant-based spread is also noted to be slightly softer and stickier. However, once spread on toast or other warm foods, many people find the differences less noticeable.
For many vegans, ingredients aren't the only ethical consideration; sourcing practices also play a major role. Both the regular and vegan versions of Nutella contain palm oil, a controversial ingredient linked to deforestation and habitat destruction for endangered species like orangutans. Ferrero states that its palm oil is 100% RSPO (Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil) certified, yet the ethical debate surrounding its production persists. For this reason, some ethically-conscious vegans may choose to avoid both products and opt for palm oil-free alternatives.
Regular vs. Vegan Nutella Comparison Table
| Feature | Regular Nutella | Nutella Plant-Based |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Status | No (contains skim milk powder) | Yes (vegan-certified) |
| Milk Substitute | N/A | Chickpeas and rice syrup powder |
| Approx. Sugar (per 100g) | 56.3g | 45.4g |
| Approx. Fat (per 100g) | 30.9g | 31.8g |
| Contains Palm Oil | Yes, RSPO-certified | Yes, RSPO-certified |
| Allergen Warning | Contains milk | May contain milk (cross-contamination) |
| Taste Profile | Classic, pronounced chocolate flavor | Slightly more nutty, hazelnut-forward |
Exploring Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Alternatives
For those who either can't find the new vegan Nutella or prefer to avoid palm oil, numerous alternatives exist. Many independent brands focus on healthier, more sustainable, or organic ingredients. Popular options include:
- Nocciolata Organic Hazelnut Spread: Available in a dairy-free version, this spread is organic, GMO-free, and does not contain palm oil.
- Justin's Chocolate Hazelnut Butter: This spread incorporates almonds for a distinct flavor and is palm oil-free.
- Nutiva Organic Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Offers a similar experience with organic ingredients.
Another excellent option is to make your own vegan chocolate hazelnut spread at home. Homemade versions offer full control over ingredients, allowing you to use your preferred nuts, sweeteners (like dates or maple syrup), and healthy oils. A food processor is the primary tool needed to blend roasted hazelnuts into a creamy butter before combining them with other ingredients like cocoa powder and a sweetener.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the key difference between the new plant-based and regular Nutella is the inclusion of dairy milk powder in the classic version. The vegan alternative, replacing dairy with chickpeas and rice syrup, provides a viable option for those on a vegan diet or who are lactose intolerant. However, both products contain palm oil, a significant ethical concern for many. For those seeking alternatives, numerous store-bought and homemade options offer different flavor profiles, ingredient sourcing, and nutritional benefits. Consumers can make an informed choice based on their dietary needs, taste preferences, and ethical values.
For further information on veganism and plant-based nutrition, consider exploring reputable resources like Vegan Food & Living.
