What's in the New Plant-Based Recipe?
To achieve a vegan-friendly formula, Ferrero's research and development team aimed to replicate the taste and texture of the original dairy version using plant-based alternatives. After five years of development, they created a specific blend that has received vegan certification.
The official ingredient list for Nutella Plant-Based includes:
- Sugar: For sweetness.
- Palm Oil: Helps create the smooth, spreadable consistency. Ferrero uses sustainably sourced, RSPO-certified palm oil.
- Hazelnuts (13%): Provides the signature nutty flavor.
- Chickpeas: A key milk substitute, chosen for its balanced taste and texture.
- Fat-Reduced Cocoa Powder (7.4%): Delivers chocolate flavor.
- Powdered Rice Syrup: Replaces milk powder, offering sweetness.
- Emulsifier: Lecithins (Soya): Helps bind ingredients for a smooth product.
- Salt: Enhances flavor.
- Flavourings: Similar to the classic version's vanillin, these are not specified beyond 'flavourings'.
Dairy and Allergen Information
While dairy-free, the product is made in a facility that also processes milk, so it may contain traces of milk. Due to soya lecithin, it's unsuitable for soy allergies. The product is gluten-free.
Comparison: Classic vs. Nutella Plant-Based
Understanding the differences in ingredients and nutrition is helpful. The main change is replacing milk with plant-based options, which impacts the nutritional profile, including sugar and fat content.
| Feature | Classic Nutella | Nutella Plant-Based |
|---|---|---|
| Key Dairy Ingredient | Skimmed milk powder (8.7% in Italian version) | None. Replaced by chickpeas and rice syrup powder |
| Primary Plant-Based Replacements | None | Chickpeas and powdered rice syrup |
| Energy (per 100g) | ~539 kcal | ~534 kcal |
| Sugar (per 100g) | 56.3 g | 45.4 g |
| Fat (per 100g) | 30.9 g | 31.8 g |
| Saturated Fat (per 100g) | 10.6 g | 11.0 g |
| Protein (per 100g) | 6.3 g | 6.8 g |
| Carbohydrates (per 100g) | 57.5 g | 53.4 g |
| Lactose Content | Yes | No |
| Vegan Status | No | Yes, vegan-approved |
The plant-based version has less sugar and slightly more fat and protein per 100g. This is due to the plant-based ingredient substitutions. The total energy content is very similar.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nutella Plant-Based
Here are common questions regarding the formulation, availability, and allergen information of the new product.
What does Nutella Plant-Based taste like?
Ferrero states the new version aims for the same unmistakable Nutella experience, with a similar smooth texture and taste. Chickpeas and rice syrup powder were chosen to integrate well and provide balanced flavor and sweetness.
Is Nutella Plant-Based available worldwide?
As of late 2024 and early 2025, it launched in select European markets like Italy, France, Belgium, and Germany. Availability in other regions, including the UK and US, has been confirmed with phased rollouts.
Can people with milk allergies safely consume Nutella Plant-Based?
No, it is not recommended for those with milk allergies. The product is made in a facility that handles milk, posing a risk of cross-contamination.
Does the plant-based Nutella contain palm oil?
Yes, it contains sustainably sourced, RSPO-certified palm oil, similar to the classic version. Ferrero considers palm oil vital for the product's texture and smoothness.
What are lecithins in the ingredients?
Lecithins (Soya) are emulsifiers that help blend ingredients like oil and water, ensuring a smooth, uniform texture and preventing separation.
What role do chickpeas and rice syrup powder play?
These ingredients were chosen to replace milk and milk powder. Rice syrup helps provide sweetness similar to milk powder, while chickpea flour contributes to texture and a balanced taste.
How is Nutella Plant-Based certified as vegan?
The product has been verified and received the vegan approval trademark from the Vegetarian Society, confirming it meets their criteria for vegan products.
Conclusion
Nutella Plant-Based offers a significant dairy-free and vegan option. By replacing milk powder with chickpeas and rice syrup powder, Ferrero created a vegan-approved spread that aims to maintain the classic taste. The ingredient list includes familiar items like sugar, hazelnuts, and cocoa, alongside the plant-based substitutes. Consumers with dietary restrictions should note potential allergens like soya and trace milk. This innovation addresses growing dietary trends and reflects Ferrero's effort to adapt its product for a wider audience while using sustainable sourcing.
