Your Dairy-Free Cheese Options at Walmart
For those following a plant-based diet, managing lactose intolerance, or simply looking to reduce dairy consumption, the search for quality alternatives has become easier. Walmart has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of dairy-free cheeses, making them accessible to a broader consumer base. You can expect to find a mix of well-known brands and surprisingly good value options under Walmart's own label. Understanding what brands are available, their ingredients, and where to find them will help you navigate the grocery aisles with ease.
The Bettergoods Brand: A Budget-Friendly Option
In a move to capture the growing plant-based market, Walmart launched its private-label bettergoods line, which includes a selection of dairy-free cheeses. These products are known for their affordability and respectable flavor. The brand offers shreds in popular varieties like cheddar, mozzarella, and a cheddar-mozzarella blend. However, it's crucial to be aware of the recent ingredient changes. Originally coconut-based and safe for nut allergy sufferers, the bettergoods shredded cheese formula was updated to a cashew base. This change was not prominently marked, causing severe allergic reactions in some customers. Always double-check the ingredient list for any changes, especially if you have a nut allergy.
Popular National Dairy-Free Brands
In addition to its private label, Walmart carries many of the industry's most popular dairy-free cheese brands, often found in the same refrigerated section as traditional dairy products. Some of the most common include:
- Violife: A widely available and well-regarded brand, Violife offers a variety of products such as shredded mozzarella, cheddar slices, and parmesan wedges. Known for its good taste and melting properties, it's a solid choice for many recipes.
- Daiya: One of the pioneering brands in vegan cheese, Daiya is readily available at Walmart and offers slices and shreds in flavors like cheddar and mozzarella. Daiya has also reformulated its products to provide a better melt.
- Follow Your Heart: This brand is a popular choice for its American slices and grated parmesan alternative, which is excellent for topping pasta and pizzas.
- Field Roast Chao Creamery: For slices and spreads, Field Roast's Chao brand offers creamy, savory options that are often stocked in Walmart's refrigerated case.
Finding Dairy-Free Cheese in the Store
Finding the dairy-free cheese section at Walmart can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. Here’s a quick guide to help you locate the goods:
- The Dairy Aisle: The most common location is right alongside traditional cheese. Due to the growth of plant-based products, many Walmarts now place dairy-free alternatives directly next to their dairy counterparts for easy comparison. Look for sections marked "Plant-Based" or "Dairy-Free".
- The Plant-Based or Vegan Section: Some stores have a dedicated "Dietary & Lifestyle Shop" section, where you can find all plant-based and vegan products grouped together. If the cheese isn't with the dairy products, this is your next best bet.
- Online and App Search: The most reliable method is to check Walmart's website or app before you go. You can filter for "dairy-free" cheese and check for local store availability, which can save you time and a frustrating search.
What to Consider Before You Buy
Before grabbing the first package you see, consider these factors to ensure you get the right product for your needs:
- Taste and Texture: Not all dairy-free cheeses are created equal. Some mimic the flavor and texture of real cheese better than others. Coconut oil-based cheeses often have great meltability, while nut-based versions offer a richer, tangier flavor.
- Ingredients: Check the base ingredients to see if the cheese is made from coconut, cashews, almonds, or soy. This is particularly important for individuals with food allergies, especially with Walmart's
bettergoodsbrand and its cashew ingredients. - Melting Properties: If you plan to use the cheese for pizza or grilled cheese, look for brands that specifically mention good meltability. Some brands melt better with low heat, and none will stretch like traditional dairy cheese.
- Nutritional Value: While vegan cheeses are cholesterol-free, their saturated fat and protein content can vary dramatically. Some are high in saturated fat from coconut oil, while others have minimal protein. Always check the nutritional label to align with your dietary goals.
Dairy-Free vs. Dairy Cheese: A Nutritional Comparison
Choosing between dairy-free and traditional cheese involves more than just taste and texture. Here is a comparison of typical nutritional values:
| Aspect | Vegan Cheese (Average) | Traditional Dairy Cheese (Average) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Plant-based ingredients (nuts, coconut, soy) | Animal milk (cow, goat, sheep) |
| Cholesterol | Zero | Contains dietary cholesterol |
| Saturated Fat | Can be high (coconut oil-based) or lower (nut-based) | High |
| Protein | Generally lower (1–4g/oz); varies by base ingredient | Higher (6–10g/oz) |
| Calcium | Often fortified; natural levels are low | High natural levels |
| Vitamin B12 | Often fortified | High natural levels |
Conclusion
Walmart's growing selection of dairy-free cheese is a testament to the mainstream rise of plant-based eating. With a variety of brands like Violife, Daiya, and Follow Your Heart, alongside their own affordable bettergoods options, finding a suitable dairy alternative is easier than ever. The key is to be an informed shopper by checking product labels, especially for potential allergens like cashews in the bettergoods line. By understanding the different bases and melting characteristics, you can confidently choose the right dairy-free cheese for your favorite meals. For a deeper look at ingredient choices in plant-based diets, check out this guide from EatingWell.
