The vegan cheese market has boomed in recent years and shows no signs of slowing down.
According to Statista, the market value of global vegan cheese hit over 3 billion U.S Dollars in 2022 and is forecasted to reach almost $4 billion by the end of 2024. Sales are predicted to rise to $7 billion by 2030, as dairy-free’s popularity continues to soar.
As consumers continue to demand healthier and more environmentally sustainable alternatives to their favorite foods, the vegan cheese market is thriving, becoming increasingly competitive and scalable.
Nuts about almonds
It’s well known that nuts are a key ingredient in many vegan cheese recipes because they provide a delicious creaminess and texture that mimics dairy-based versions. They provide a fantastic base to add ingredients to, to achieve a flavorsome cheese that rivals non-plant-based options.
Typically, cashew nuts have been used in vegan cheese production, taking a 35% revenue share in 2021. However, almonds provide a fantastic alternative for dairy-free cheese manufacturers. Not only do they create a creamy base for many cheese varieties, such as almond-based cream cheese and ricotta, but they also offer abundant health benefits and greater sustainability credentials compared with cashews.
Health benefits
Almonds have a significant nutritional advantage, adding health value to any vegan cheese range. They are a nutrient-dense food, meaning they provide a high amount of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Here are a few reasons why:
Almonds are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. They also contain a small amount of polyunsaturated fats and are relatively low in saturated fats.
Almonds are one of the best dietary sources of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage. Vitamin E is important for skin health, immune function, and overall well-being.
Almonds contain protein, making them a valuable addition to vegetarian and vegan diets. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function.
Almonds are a good source of fibre, which promotes digestive health and helps maintain healthy blood sugar.
Almonds are a good source of important minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Magnesium is crucial for muscle and nerve function, while calcium is essential for bone health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
And while almonds are a tree nut, they are generally considered to be less allergenic that other nuts, making them a great option for those people with nut allergies that can tolerate almonds.
Almonds all the way
Put simply, almonds can contribute to better overall health and well-being, making them a great nut alternative for vegan cheese production.
As a manufacturer, sourcing raw ingredients that deliver on both flavour and nutritional value Is vital. As one of the most established Mediterranean almond producers, we can help you create the very best vegan alternatives, using our delicious almonds.
With 1,300 hectares of almond groves in Portugal, we produce the best Mediterranean almond varieties, including Belona, Soleta, Avijor and Guara. The flavour profile is very different to the vast majority of American-grown almonds, giving consumers a new, exciting option to try, that is both nutritious and tasty.
Our production methods also set us apart from other producers. We invest heavily in regenerative agriculture techniques, which means paying attention, at all times, to the best sustainability and traceability practices.
If you are interested in learning more about how our almonds can elevate your vegan cheese offering, get in touch today.
