Today, more and more people are choosing plant-based diets for various reasons. These diets typically exclude meat, fish, and other animal products, which can be problematic for some people because many animal foods contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for health. However, research suggests that vegan alternatives to cheese can be just as good as dairy cheese when it comes to promoting protein and calcium intake. They also tend to contain less saturated fat and cholesterol

Before we get into vegan cheese, let's talk about dairy cheese and why you might want to try a dairy-free substitute. Dairy consumption has been linked to cancer, Type 2 Diabetes, and other diseases, according to research. When Dr. T. Colin Campbell published the book "The China Study" and the paper Dairy Protein Caused Cancer in 2004, he confirmed allegations based two decades of research. Papers showed that casein, a protein found in animal dairy, increased the growth of cancer cells.

Furthermore, a National Cancer Institute study found that women who ate the most cheese had a 53 percent increased risk of breast cancer, partially due to dairy-containing growth hormone, a factor in hormone-driven cancers. Additionally, a sizable part of the population is lactose intolerant and experiences GI distress after consuming dairy. People report improved digestion and a general sense of better gut health after removing cheese from their diet.

One of the main reasons why people choose to go vegan is for health reasons. Dairy cheese is high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. As we mentioned before, vegan alternatives to cheese are usually made from nuts, seeds, or soy, which are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. These nutrients can help lower cholesterol levels, improve heart health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Another reason why people opt for vegan alternatives to cheese is because of the environmental impact of dairy farming. According to the UN, livestock production is responsible for 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. It is more than the entire transportation sector combined! Dairy farming, in particular, is a major contributor to deforestation, water pollution, and soil degradation. In contrast, vegan alternatives to cheese require fewer resources and have a lower carbon footprint.

Many people also choose vegan alternatives to cheese because of ethical concerns about animal welfare. Dairy cows are often subjected to cruel practices such as forced impregnation, separation from their calves, and slaughter at a young age. In contrast, vegan cheese is made from plant-based ingredients that do not involve animal exploitation or suffering.

While taste and texture are subjective and personal preferences vary, it's worth noting that vegan alternatives to cheese have come a long way in terms of flavor and consistency. With advancements in food technology, vegan cheese is now available in many flavors and textures that mimic the taste and texture of dairy cheese. For example, some vegan cheese brands use enzymes to create the tangy, nutty flavor of cheese, while others use coconut oil to achieve the gooey texture of melted cheese.

Finally, vegan alternatives to cheese are becoming more widely available and accessible than ever before. Many grocery stores and restaurants now offer a range of vegan cheese options, making it easier for people to switch to plant-based cheese. Additionally, vegan cheese is often cheaper than dairy cheese, making it a more affordable option for people on a budget.

Today, many high-quality vegan kinds of cheese are very simple, made with a cashew-nut base (a common nut in vegan cheeses due to its neutral taste), and contain few ingredients free of oils. If you want minimal intervention products, look for vegan cheeses with a short ingredient list.

While dairy cheese has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, there are several reasons why vegan alternatives might be better. You can now go to a vegan drive-thru in Mesa to try different vegan dishes with plant-based cheese that keep your body healthier. If you want to try out vegan cheese dishes, such as vegan mac and cheese, visit Make A Mac today, we’ll be proud to serve you tasteful vegan dishes with this staple ingredient!