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Say Dairy-Free Cheese!

Cheese is notoriously difficult to get right without dairy. Earlier dairy-free cheeses had a bad reputation for waxy or chalky texture, earning them a comparison to “melted crayons.” Although plant-based cheese still doesn’t taste exactly like traditional cheese, it’s come a long way. Many varieties have a creamy texture and delicious flavors that make them a fitting substitute.

Dairy-free cheese can serve as a substitute in everything from pizza to sandwiches. Brands such as Miyoko’s have vegan offerings packed with so much flavor, they can even star on charcuterie boards.

To capitalize on two trends at once, experiment with lactose-free pimento cheese. Though often used as a sandwich spread, pimento cheese is a versatile ingredient that works for all dayparts. A dairy-free version can introduce a new audience to this Southern tradition.

Quick Tip: When using lactose-free cheese in recipes, keep in mind that they often take a higher temperature to melt. They also don’t brown the same way as traditional cheese. Check the packaging for recommended baking temperatures to get that perfect, gooey melt.

Moooove Over Cow Juice

From the memorable Oatley Super Bowl commercial to Starbucks’ oat milk rollout across the U.S., oat milk has emerged as one of the biggest dairy-free trends. One reason is because of its creamy mouthfeel, which makes it similar to traditional milk and a great addition to coffee.

That doesn’t mean other plant-based milks are out of the picture. Almond and coconut milk are top players in the market. Pea, cashew, and soy milk have all grown by double digits. Pistachio milk creates Instagram-worthy beverages. Appearance, flavor, health benefits, and mouthfeel should all go into consideration when choosing the right plant-based milk for a recipe or beverage.

Quick Tip: Make a guilty pleasure a little less guilty. Create an indulgent plant-based shake using dairy-free ice cream, milk, and whipped cream. Coconut milk, sweetened almond milk, hazelnut milk, and other sweet dairy-free milks are fitting dairy substitutes in desserts.

In the past couple years, it’s been impossible to come across a food blog that didn’t mention plant-based burgers. Instead of dying down, the plant-based food trend has entered a new phase where meatless burger patties are far from the only vegan items on the menu.

Everything from climate change to growing interest in functional diets is increasing demand for plant-based foods and beverages. Let’s look at how the phenomenon is moving forward.

Plant Protein Power

According to Technomic Ignite, plant-based protein is poised to grow about 35 percent on menus by the end of 2022 with more varieties hitting menus. Alternatives to chicken, eggs, pork, crab, and more are showing up across restaurants.

Quick Tip: Many consumers are reducing meat consumption, not completely eliminating it. Offer plant-based and animal-based options, and don’t be afraid to mix both in the same dishes to appeal to the flexitarian crowd.

Your Sourcing Solution

2021 is shaping to be a watershed year for plant-based foods and beverages. With so many options for vegan ingredients, restaurants have plenty of room on the menu for plant-based items.

From meat substitutes to lactose-free cheese, Dot Foods has the top plant-based food and beverage products. Discover them now on our website.

Ready to get more plants on the menu? Check out our plant-based products.