Cheese alternatives are available in a range of flavors, including
mozzarella, cheddar, and more.
Cheese alternatives mean that strict vegetarians and those with lactose sensitivities can
still have pizza, nachos, and other cheesy treats. Dairy cheese is often made with rennet or
rennin, an enzyme derived from the stomachs of calves. Cheese alternatives use microbial
enzymes or vegetable enzymes instead of rennin, so they’re free of animal products. Some
cheese alternatives contain casein or calcium caseinate, a milk protein used to add texture;
therefore, read labels carefully, and look for cheese alternatives marked
“vegan.”
Varieties
Cheese alternatives are made from soy, rice,
nuts or seeds, or a combination thereof.
They’re available in a range of flavors, including mozzarella, jack, cheddar, cream
cheese, Parmesan, and others.
Buying and storing tips
Look for cheese alternatives in the refrigerated or dairy sections of
natural foods stores and grocery stores. Refrigerate cheese alternatives in a zip-lock bag to
preserve moisture and freshness. Store for up to two weeks.
Availability
Cheese alternatives are available year-round.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Grate a cheddar cheese alternative over broccoli; layer slices of mozzarella cheese alternative into
lasagna; and stir finely grated jack cheese alternative into polenta.
Nutritional Highlights
Cheese alternative (mozzarella, soy-based), 1
oz. (28g)
Calories: 80
Protein: 6.0g
Carbohydrate: 3.0g
Total fat: 5.0g
Fiber: 0.0g
*Good source of: Calcium (100mg), Iron (1.8mg), and Vitamin A (500
IU)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular
nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a
particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value.
Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries.
Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values
and the recommended daily guidelines.
Copyright © 2002 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights
reserved. www.healthnotes.com
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of
Foodnotes.
The information presented in Foodnotes is for informational
purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts.
Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using
any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed
medications. Information expires December 2003.
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