The brand behind Pizza Pizza's vegan cheese
Pizza Pizza has offered a vegan cheese option since 2017, a move that was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from the vegan community. However, the supplier has changed over time. Early on, the chain partnered with Violife to provide a dairy-free topping. According to a current ingredients list on the Pizza Pizza website, the chain now uses a Daiya Oat Cream Blend. This is a common and widely available brand in the North American vegan market, known for its ability to melt and stretch like traditional cheese.
A closer look at Daiya Oat Cream Blend
The Daiya Oat Cream Blend cheese used by Pizza Pizza is formulated to deliver a satisfying melt and stretch, making it a functional substitute for dairy mozzarella on pizza. The primary ingredients that give it this texture and flavor include:
- Oat Flour and Pea Protein: A blend of these plant-based ingredients forms the base for the cheese alternative.
- Coconut Oil: This is a key ingredient for achieving the desired creamy, fatty texture and meltability.
- Starches: Tapioca and potato starches are used to help with binding and to create a stretchy consistency.
- Other Ingredients: Expeller-pressed safflower oil, salt, and various natural flavors, colors, and acids are added for taste and preservation.
The nutritional landscape of vegan pizza cheese
For those managing their diet, understanding the nutritional profile of vegan cheese is important. It's a processed food and its nutrient content can differ significantly from its dairy counterpart. As an accompaniment to an otherwise whole-food, plant-based diet, it's a great option. However, relying on it as a primary source of nutrients might not be the best approach.
Comparing plant-based and dairy cheese
| Nutrient | Daiya Oat Cream Blend (Vegan) | Traditional Mozzarella (Dairy) | Implications for Nutrition Diet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | Significant amount | Vegan cheese is always cholesterol-free. |
| Protein | Lower (approx. 1–3g per serving) | Higher (approx. 5–8g per serving) | Vegan cheese is not a reliable source of protein. Focus on other plant-based sources like lentils, beans, and nuts. |
| Saturated Fat | High due to coconut oil | High due to dairy fat | Both can be high in saturated fat. Vegan varieties, particularly those based on coconut oil, should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. |
| Calcium | Often fortified | Naturally high | Check labels; some vegan cheeses like Daiya are calcium-fortified, but others are not. |
| Fiber | Contains some fiber | Contains no fiber | Plant-based cheeses can contribute to fiber intake, which is completely absent in dairy cheese. |
| Vitamin B12 | May be fortified | Naturally present | Vegan cheese is not a reliable source of B12 unless it is fortified, which is not always the case. |
The role of coconut oil
Coconut oil is a common base in vegan cheese alternatives because it provides a solid texture at cool temperatures and melts convincingly when heated. Its composition means it contributes a high level of saturated fat to the product. While some research has questioned the impact of saturated fat from coconut oil compared to animal fats, it's generally advised to moderate intake.
How vegan pizza fits into a balanced nutrition diet
Incorporating fast-food items like a vegan pizza from Pizza Pizza into a balanced diet is all about context and moderation. Here are some tips:
- Add Vegetables: Maximize nutrient intake by loading your pizza with extra vegetable toppings. Options like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Consider Portions: Pay attention to portion sizes. Vegan cheese is a processed treat, and a small amount is fine, but it shouldn't replace whole-food staples.
- Pair with Whole Foods: Complement your pizza with a side salad packed with fresh greens and a light dressing. This increases fiber and nutrient intake.
- Focus on Fiber and Protein: Since most vegan cheeses are low in protein, ensure other meals throughout the day feature high-protein plant-based foods like lentils, beans, tofu, or tempeh.
Pizza Pizza’s expanded vegan offerings
Since first introducing vegan cheese, Pizza Pizza has significantly expanded its plant-based menu. In addition to the dairy-free cheese, customers can now enjoy a variety of toppings and sides.
- Plant-Based Pepperoni: A savory alternative to the traditional meat topping.
- Plant-Based Chorizo Crumble: Adds a spicy, flavorful protein boost to your pizza.
- Plant-Based Chick'n Bites: Available as a side dish or topping for sandwiches.
Conclusion: Making informed dietary choices
To the question of what kind of vegan cheese does Pizza Pizza use?, the answer today is the Daiya Oat Cream Blend, though this has changed over the years. For those on a vegan or dairy-free diet, this option provides a convenient way to enjoy pizza without compromising on dietary needs. While vegan cheese melts and satisfies, its nutritional content, particularly concerning protein and saturated fat, means it should be enjoyed in moderation. A balanced approach that incorporates plenty of whole foods will ensure your pizza night fits into a healthy nutrition diet overall.
For more information on balancing a vegan diet, authoritative resources are widely available. A great place to start is the information offered by The Vegan Society's nutrition and health resources.
