Another popular cheesemaker has rolled out new plant-based cheese products, and just in time for those who wish to make a new year’s resolution to eat less animal-based foods. Last week on this side of the pond, France-based Bel Group announced that The Laughing Cow wedges will soon appear in milk-free form.
In addition, a plant-based cream cheese product under the Nurishh brand will make its debut on January 1.
Plant-based cheese has been in the midst of a particularly long journey when compared to how meat alternatives have performed. While some brands such as Miyoko’s Creamery deservedly have a strong fan following, other companies within this space have stumbled. The problems: a funky way of melting (some plant-based cheese products simply don’t, at all), an unappealing texture and, face it, there’s not a lot of nutrition in a food that’s mostly packed with potato starch and coconut oil.
The result is that it’s often easier to find a plant-based burger than a cow-free grilled cheese. Some fast-food and foodservice companies, such as McDonald’s, have given up on meat- and milk-free alternatives entirely for now here in the U.S.
But Bel Group may be onto something. The company felt confident enough after the rollout of the performance of its plant-based cheese alternatives that currently fall under the Babybel and Boursin labels. Its brands also have a strong following among consumers who turn to Bel Group’s products for school and work lunches and sorting out an appetizer platter on a whim. So, if you grew up with The Laughing Cow or are quick to reach for a sack of Babybel mini-rounds, considering a plant-based option isn’t too far of a stretch.
The company has engaged partners that are helping its brands chart a plant-based course. Recently, Bel Group bought a stake in Standing Ovation, a France-based company that has developed a precision fermentation process to make animal-free casein, a typically milk-based protein that is integral in cheesemaking. In addition, Bel Group has been working with Perfect Day, another food technology company that can recreate dairy proteins that are milk-free. Finally, Superbrewed Food provides its own brewing process for some of Bel Group’s products.
For those who have been quick to predict the demise of the plant-based food sector in the wake of the bad press surrounding some brands like Beyond Meat, here’s a gentle reminder: Food technologies like the ones with which Bel Group is partnering are still scoring impressive amounts of funding.
Image credits: BabyBel; Zoe Schaeffer via Unsplash
