Yes, vegan cheese is both dairy-free and lactose-free, as it does not contain any milk, cheese, or other dairy products.

There are many types of vegan cheese available, including nut-based cheeses (such as cashew and almond), soy-based cheeses, hemp-based cheeses, and coconut-based cheeses. Some vegan cheeses are designed to melt and stretch like dairy cheese, while others are better for spreading or using as a topping. Some cheese is cultured, meaning they are probiotic as well as can be aged for weeks and months. Lastly, there are plenty of 100% allergen-free cheese now available.

Vegan cheese can be made using a variety of methods. One common method involves blending nuts or seeds with water to create a base, which is then cultured with probiotics to create a cheese-like flavor and texture and are typically raw. Other methods may involve blending and heating ingredients like soy or coconut oil with flavorings and seasonings to create a cheese-like texture. Meltable cheeses are typically made with vegetable starches and are  usually steamed.

Vegan cheese can have a similar taste to dairy cheese, but it depends on the type and brand of cheese. Some vegan cheeses are designed to mimic the flavor of specific types of dairy cheese, while others have their own unique taste.

Yes, vegan cheese can be used in cooking and baking as a substitute for dairy cheese. However, not all vegan cheeses are created equal in terms of melting, flavor, and texture, so it may take some experimentation to find the right cheese for your recipe. We have created a Meltable category to assist you in choosing the perfect cheese for your needs.

Vegan cheese can be a healthy alternative to dairy cheese if it is made from whole food ingredients such as nuts or seeds. However, like any processed food, some vegan cheeses may be high in sodium, additives, and preservatives, so it is important to read the labels and choose options that are minimally processed. Additionally, many also use coconut oil, which is best consumed in moderation as with any oil. The healthiest cheese we carry are the organic, cashew based and oil free cheeses by Reine, Katona’s Creamery and the Cave Aged Brie by Rebel.

Vegan cheese is suitable for those following a vegan diet, as it does not contain any animal products. It can also be a healthier alternative to dairy cheese, as it can be lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. Additionally, it can be a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.

It depends on the type of vegan cheese. Nut-based cheeses would not be suitable for those with nut allergies, while soy-based cheeses would not be suitable for those with soy allergies. It is important to read the labels and ingredients carefully to ensure that the cheese is safe for your specific allergy.

Vegan cheese can be more environmentally friendly than dairy cheese, as it does not require the same amount of resources and emissions associated with animal agriculture.

Vegan cheese is a very niche product in its infancy, so even if it were not competing with a well established industry with government subsidies, it could still not compete with the economies of scale enjoyed by such a large industry, and this shows in the price. Also, it depends on the brand and type of cheese. Some vegan cheeses are made from whole food and organic ingredients and may be more expensive due to the cost of the ingredients, while others may be more affordable and similar in price to dairy cheese.

Vegan cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at all times to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container to protect it from exposure to air and other contaminants. Raw and cultured vegan cheeses need to be wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper as to not suffocate the living cultured while others like the meltable starch based cheeses can be stored as-is in their original packaging. 

The shelf life of vegan cheese can vary depending on the type of cheese and the storage conditions. It’s best to check the storage instructions provided with the specific product, but in general, we suggest enjoying your cheese within a week of receipt.

Some types of vegan cheese can be frozen, but it’s not recommended for all varieties. Most cashew-based cheeses freeze beautifully, unless they have a rind, such as aged brie. Hemp and soy-based cheeses tend to not freeze well.  We have created a Freezable category to help you choose what works best for you. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have!

Throughout most of the year, we ship our vegan cheese products to customers across the Continental United States and Hawaii and Alaska. However, due to high temperatures during Summer months, we can only offer 1-day shipping in order to insure the quality and integrity of our products.