Famed dairy brand Boursin recently released a completely plant-based garlic and herbs cheese spread! Created in collaboration with vegan company Follow Your Heart, the spread is certified dairy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO. While currently available exclusively on Amazon Fresh, the spread will be available in stores in 2021. Bob Goldberg, founder and CEO of Follow Your Heart, told VegNews:
We take great pride in the fact that Boursin and the Bel Group have trusted our knowledge and expertise in this realm and that we have been able to support the launch of such an amazing and delicious product. We’re truly delighted to see this savory treat now available to dairy-free consumers and those thinking of taking their own leap into dairy-free.
Boursin isn’t the only company taking the plant-based plunge. Its parent company—French cheese producer Bel Group—bought major shares in vegan dairy brand All In Foods. Bel Group also announced that it would release an international brand dedicated to vegan products. Even more exciting? Next year, Bel is set to release a vegan Baybel—a mini cheese snack—in the United States! Antoine Fievet, chairman and CEO of the Bel Group, said:
The Bell Group has enhanced its entry into the plant-based era and confirms its strong ambitions. We continue to diversify our product offering to meet new consumer expectations, and we are guided by our mission to champion healthier and responsible food for all.
The demand for vegan cheese is only increasing. In 2019, the global vegan cheese market was valued at $2,705 million. By 2027, that number is expected to nearly double, reaching $4,651 million.
These new plant-based releases are good news for cows, who suffer tremendously in the dairy industry. Like humans, cows must first become pregnant to produce milk. Throughout their short lives, cows at dairy farms are forcibly impregnated over and over. Shortly after birth, their babies are stolen from them so that humans can drink the milk intended for baby cows. Male calves are often sent to veal farms—where they will be slaughtered for their meat—while female calves repeat the painful lives of their mothers. Dairy cows are considered “spent” after just a few short years and are sent to slaughter.
Excited to explore the world of vegan cheese? Check out how vegan cheese is made, and download our FREE Vegetarian Starter Guide for tips on plant-based eating.