Seize the Opportunity: Vegan Cheeses Provide Variety and Comfort Consumers are Looking For
Cheese is, for many consumers, a must-have. Burgers are better with a melty slice and a pizza isn’t a pizza without a stretchy layer of mozzarella. But as more consumers look to eat healthier, offering alternatives such as vegan cheese can be a big opportunity for restaurants. Reliable, established cheese brands like Schuman have what it takes to cater what’s turning out to be a huge consumer trend.
As many as 50% of consumers are eating or cooking healthier foods than they used to, according to Datassential’s 2020 One Table Research Report. What’s more, nearly 40% of consumers take a plant-based approach to meals at least some of the time, according to the Nutritional Business Journal’s 2015 Special Diets Report.
Some consumers do so because they’re dabbling in vegetarianism or veganism, while others are just looking to try something new. But even those looking for something new may prefer to find familiar options as they explore alternate diets.
The non-dairy cheese market will be $3.52 billion by 2023, according to data from the Nutritional Business Journal. Thanks to innovations in the category, operators can take advantage of the opportunity to offer diners something that is both new and familiar. For operators looking to offer the foods their customers are looking for, the new Vevan brand fits the bill perfectly. Crafted by artisan cheesemakers, Vevan melts and stretches just like dairy cheese while being dairy-, gluten- and lactose-free — making it perfect for just about any dish, from tacos to pasta, burgers and more.
Dairy-free comfort food
As more diners turn to takeout and delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic, comfort foods have been popular choices. For diners who want to avoid dairy, operators can edge out competition by offering non-dairy options. According to Datassential’s 2020 One Table Research Report, 26% of consumers are looking for comfort foods, while 34% use takeout to get some variety.
Vegan cheeses, which are available in shred, sliced and block formats, can fulfill both of these cravings. The brand Vevan by Schuman is perfect because it hits all the classic varieties that are available in dairy cheese. Vevan Ched (offered in yellow and white varieties) is perfect for topping burgers or melting into macaroni and cheese, while Vevan Mozza makes cheesy pizzas a possibility for diners who don’t want dairy. For a hint of spice, Vevan P’Jack blends creamy with the heat of jalapeños, ideal for dishes that offer a little kick. Each variety offers the familiarity customers crave while providing an exciting option for diners who want to try something new.
No matter what consumers’ reasons are for wanting dairy-free options, one thing is sure: With interest in vegan and non-dairy cheese options growing, operators stand to benefit by offering new, dairy-free cheeses in their dishes. Operators who offer these options can easily compete with restaurants that don’t.
To learn more about Vevan, visit www.vevanfoods.com.