Craving a cheesy flavor without the dairy? Vegan parmesan cheese is the answer! Whether topping pasta, pizza, or salads, there's a dairy-free option for every dish. From nut-free varieties to ones made with cashews, hemp seeds, and almonds, these vegan options bring the perfect cheesy crunch, with some adding a boost of nutritional yeast for an extra umami kick.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the best vegan parmesans so you can skip the search. Whether you prefer block or pre-grated, we’ve got you covered, with options that include added flavors like garlic, onion powder, and gluten-free alternatives.
Quick List - Top Vegan Parmesan
Danone US, LLC
Organic, Gluten-Free, And Sustainably Sourced
Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia
Clean, Soy-Free, And Easy To Use
Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia
Flexible Format With Added B12
David is a law graduate (LL. B) with a keen eye for the specifics and a commitment to helping people make smarter decisions. Since joining mybest in 2020, he’s been creating buying guides to make finding the best products, from everyday must-haves to niche finds, easy. Whether he’s teaming up with dietitians to find the best probiotic yogurts or sharing expert tips on the top supplements, his work makes it easier for US readers to navigate the clutter of online shopping. Beyond his work with mybest, David has written for Grotto Network, a digital platform by the University of Notre Dame, and has experience as a special educational needs assistant. These pursuits have sharpened his talent for reaching people and making explanations personal and practical. His love for nature and reflective moments keeps him grounded, adding a thoughtful touch to every piece he writes for mybest.
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Clean, Soy-Free, And Easy To Use
Flexible Format With Added B12
Vegan parmesan cheese is made from plant-based ingredients that mimic the umami-rich, nutty flavor of traditional parmesan. Common bases include cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, and nutritional yeast for a savory taste. Garlic powder, onion powder, and salt enhance flavor depth, creating a well-balanced seasoning.
To achieve a grated or shelf-stable texture, many brands use oils like coconut or sunflower and potato starch for a sprinkle-friendly consistency. These dairy-free alternatives offer a versatile topping for pasta, pizza, and salads without the use of animal products.
Fat and sodium content can vary significantly between brands, making it important to check labels before purchasing vegan parmesan. Varieties made with nuts and seeds provide healthy fats that support heart health and brain function. While some plant-based saturated fat is fine in moderation, excessive amounts may raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Sodium is another key factor, as vegan parmesan often relies on salt to enhance its cheesy, umami-rich flavor. Some brands contain high sodium levels, which may not be ideal for those managing blood pressure or reducing salt intake. Checking the nutrition label helps ensure a balanced choice that aligns with dietary needs.
Nuts, seeds, and nutritional yeast create a minimally processed base for vegan parmesan while offering nutritional benefits.
Cashews and walnuts provide a rich, creamy texture with a natural umami flavor, making them ideal for cheese alternatives. These nuts are also valuable sources of copper and magnesium, minerals that may help protect against coronary heart disease.
Hemp seeds add essential omega-3 fatty acids and plant-based protein, making them a nutrient-dense choice for those seeking a wholesome alternative.
Nutritional yeast, commonly included in these blends, naturally enhances the cheesy flavor while supplying B vitamins, particularly B12. Since vitamin B12 deficiency is common in plant-based diets—even among vegetarians who consume dairy or eggs—fortified nutritional yeast can be beneficial.
Choosing a vegan parmesan made from whole-food ingredients ensures a product free from unnecessary fillers, preservatives, or highly refined oils, supporting both health and clean eating preferences.
For a convenient option, oil and starch-based vegan parmesan offers a fine, sprinkle-friendly consistency similar to traditional grated parmesan. Palm and coconut oils add a rich, creamy taste, while modified potato starch prevents clumping, making it easy to use on pasta, pizza, and more.
Though more processed than nut-based options, these ingredients enhance texture and flavor, appealing to those who prioritize convenience. Nut-free varieties also provide a safe alternative for allergy-sensitive consumers, ensuring a dairy-free parmesan substitute with a longer shelf life.
Choosing between shredded or grated vegan parmesan depends on how you plan to use it in your meals.
Block-style vegan parmesan is perfect for those who prefer a fresh, customizable experience. Grating it yourself allows you to control the texture, whether you want a fine sprinkle for pasta or a coarser shred for baked dishes. This flexibility makes it ideal for those who enjoy tailoring their ingredients to suit different meals.
Beyond versatility, a block format appeals to those who prioritize freshness and portion control. It offers a hands-on approach to adding vegan cheese, making it a great choice for individuals who enjoy preparing their food with a more personalized touch.
Non-GMO certification ensures that vegan parmesan is made without genetically modified ingredients, making it a key factor for those who prioritize natural food choices. Many consumers seek out Non-GMO Project Verified products to avoid artificial modifications in plant-based ingredients like oils, starches, and seasonings. This certification provides added assurance that the product aligns with clean eating preferences.
For those who value transparency, choosing a non-GMO option means supporting brands committed to natural sourcing and sustainable practices. Whether avoiding GMOs for health reasons or environmental concerns, selecting a certified product helps ensure a more natural, minimally altered alternative to traditional parmesan.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Calories | Total Fat Content | Sodium Content | Base Ingredient | Gluten-Free | Soy-Free | Texture | Non-GMO | |||||
1 | Danone US, LLC Follow Your Heart|Parmesan Shredded Vegan | ![]() | Organic, Gluten-Free, And Sustainably Sourced | 90 | 7g | 460mg | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast、Oil & Starch Based | Shredded | ||||
2 | Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia Violife|Vegan Shaved Parmesan Alternative | ![]() | Clean, Soy-Free, And Easy To Use | 80 | 5g | 390mg | Oil & Starch Based | Shaved | ||||
3 | Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia Violife|Just Like Parmesan | ![]() | Flexible Format With Added B12 | 80 | 5g | 390mg | Oil & Starch Based | Block-style | ||||
4 | Whole Foods Market, Inc. 365 |Non Dairy Parmesan Style Shreds | ![]() | Low-Calorie And Gluten-Free | 20 | 1g | 95mg | Oil & Starch Based | unknown | Shredded | |||
5 | Uprise Foods Cashew Parmesan | ![]() | Fair Trade, Protein-Rich, And Clean | 40 | 2.5g | 80mg | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast | Grated | ||||
6 | Live Food Products Inc. Bragg|Nutritional Yeast | ![]() | B-Vitamins And Garlic Flavor In A Seasoning | 35 | 0.5g | 200mg | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast | unknown | Grated | unknown | ||
7 | Panacheeza Parmesan Style Cheese | ![]() | Bold Flavor With Added Protein | unknown | unknown | unknown | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast | unknown | unknown | Grated | unknown | |
8 | The Farmer Foodie Cashew Parmesan Cheese | ![]() | Italian Herb Flavor With Organic Ingredients | 25 | 1.5g | 70mg | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast | unknown | Grated | unknown | ||
9 | VitalitySnax Natural Bakery Ever Craves|Parma-Veggie Parmesan Alternative | ![]() | Walnut-Based And B12-Fortified | unknown | unknown | unknown | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast | Grated | ||||
10 | Kelly's Croutons Roasted Garlic Parmesan | ![]() | Garlicky, Nut-Based Flavor With Bold Taste | 50 | 3.5g | 60mg | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast | unknown | unknown | Grated | unknown |
Base Ingredient | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast、Oil & Starch Based |
---|
This shredded vegan parmesan alternative combines organic ingredients such as palm fruit oil, nutritional yeast, and chickpea miso, providing a savory, cheese-like taste. It is gluten-free, non-GMO, and contains no artificial preservatives. The inclusion of bamboo fiber and carrageenan enhances texture and mouthfeel, though some may be sensitive to these additives. It also provides a source of B vitamins from the yeast.
The product is marketed as a versatile cheese alternative that can be used in various dishes like pasta, salads, or soups. However, its main selling points revolve around its organic and sustainably sourced ingredients, especially the palm oil, which is Rainforest Alliance certified.
Calories | 90 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 7g |
Sodium Content | 460mg |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Texture | Shredded |
Non-GMO |
Base Ingredient | Oil & Starch Based |
---|
Violife’s shaved parmesan alternative is made with coconut oil, rice protein, and vegan parmesan flavor derived from plant sources. It is soy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary restrictions. The product also includes beta-carotene for coloring and a small amount of Vitamin B12, which is essential for vegans who may lack this nutrient in their diets.
This product is available in a convenient shaved form, designed to be easily sprinkled on dishes. The absence of preservatives and artificial additives makes it a clean option for those looking for a simple, dairy-free parmesan alternative.
Calories | 80 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 5g |
Sodium Content | 390mg |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Texture | Shaved |
Non-GMO |
Base Ingredient | Oil & Starch Based |
---|
This wedge-style vegan parmesan is similar to the shaved version from Violife, but it is designed for slicing or grating. Like its counterpart, it is made from coconut oil, rice protein, and plant-based parmesan flavoring, and is free from soy, gluten, and nuts. It also includes added Vitamin B12, making it a good source of this vital nutrient for vegan diets.
The wedge format provides flexibility in use, whether for grating onto dishes or cutting into slices. With 80 calories and 390mg of sodium per serving, it is on the higher end in terms of sodium content, which is worth noting for those monitoring salt intake.
Calories | 80 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 5g |
Sodium Content | 390mg |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Texture | Block-style |
Non-GMO |
Base Ingredient | Oil & Starch Based |
---|
This shredded vegan parmesan uses coconut oil and potato starch as primary ingredients, with the addition of natural flavoring and olive extract for color. At only 20 calories per tablespoon, this option is low-calorie and offers minimal fat and protein per serving. The product is gluten-free and non-GMO, and contains no added sugar or preservatives.
Its minimal calorie content may appeal to those seeking a lighter, lower-calorie alternative to dairy cheese.
Calories | 20 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 1g |
Sodium Content | 95mg |
Gluten-Free | unknown |
Soy-Free | |
Texture | Shredded |
Non-GMO |
Base Ingredient | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast |
---|
NOOCH IT! offers a cashew-based parmesan alternative that combines organic cashews, hemp seeds, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast for a rich, cheesy flavor. This product is dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. It is also Fair Trade Certified, emphasizing ethical farming practices.
The product is nutrient-dense, providing a source of protein and B vitamins from the nutritional yeast and hemp seeds. It's a versatile topping for pasta, salads, and soups, and the clean ingredient list is appealing to those looking for an additive-free option.
Calories | 40 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 2.5g |
Sodium Content | 80mg |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Texture | Grated |
Non-GMO |
Base Ingredient | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast |
---|
This nutritional yeast seasoning by Bragg is a popular cheese substitute, offering a savory, cheesy flavor. It is low-calorie, low-sodium, and packed with B vitamins, making it a nutritional boost to various dishes. The roasted garlic flavor adds a bold kick, and the product can be sprinkled on everything from pasta to salads.
While it is marketed as a "parmesan substitute," its primary role is as a seasoning rather than a direct cheese alternative. The product is vegan, non-GMO, and contains no preservatives or artificial ingredients, making it a clean addition to any pantry.
Calories | 35 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 0.5g |
Sodium Content | 200mg |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Texture | Grated |
Non-GMO | unknown |
Base Ingredient | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast |
---|
Panacheeza's grated parmesan alternative is made with cashews, nutritional yeast, and garlic powder, offering a bold flavor profile. It provides 2g of protein per serving and is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. This product is versatile and can be used as a topping or incorporated into sauces and baked dishes for added texture and flavor.
Its clean ingredient list and the use of Himalayan sea salt give it an earthy, slightly salty taste. However, its higher protein content makes it more filling than some other vegan parmesan alternatives.
Calories | unknown |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | unknown |
Sodium Content | unknown |
Gluten-Free | unknown |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Texture | Grated |
Non-GMO | unknown |
Base Ingredient | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast |
---|
Farmer Foodie’s cashew-based parmesan combines nutritional yeast with a blend of Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and garlic powder. This product is certified organic and free from dairy and gluten. It offers a unique Italian herb flavor, making it a versatile option for Italian dishes, soups, and salads.
The 3.2-ounce container provides a small but potent amount of cheese alternative, ideal for sprinkling. It’s marketed as being suitable for various diets, and its emphasis on ethical sourcing and sustainability (including being a woman-owned business) gives it an appealing social impact angle.
Calories | 25 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 1.5g |
Sodium Content | 70mg |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Texture | Grated |
Non-GMO | unknown |
Base Ingredient | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast |
---|
Ever Craves’ vegan parmesan alternative uses a combination of walnuts and nutritional yeast for a rich, cheesy flavor. It is high in protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, and is fortified with Vitamin B12. The product is low in calories and free from preservatives, gluten, soy, and lactose.
With its emphasis on clean ingredients, this product is ideal for anyone looking for a straightforward, healthy topping. The walnut base also gives it a unique texture, different from the typical cashew-based alternatives, and it can be sprinkled on various dishes or added to dips and spreads.
Calories | unknown |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | unknown |
Sodium Content | unknown |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Texture | Grated |
Non-GMO |
Base Ingredient | Nuts, Seeds & Nutritional Yeast |
---|
This vegan parmesan alternative by Kelly’s Croutons uses raw cashews, nutritional yeast, and roasted garlic for a bold, garlicky flavor. It is free from dairy, gluten, and soy, and provides a robust, savory kick to any dish. The garlic flavor is particularly strong, making it ideal for garlic lovers.
The product adds a distinct flavor to dishes like pasta, pizza, and roasted vegetables. It is a simple, flavorful choice for those seeking a dairy-free alternative with a strong garlic profile.
Calories | 50 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 3.5g |
Sodium Content | 60mg |
Gluten-Free | unknown |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Texture | Grated |
Non-GMO | unknown |
No. 1: Danone US, LLC|Follow Your Heart|Parmesan Shredded Vegan
No. 2: Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia|Violife|Vegan Shaved Parmesan Alternative
No. 3: Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia|Violife|Just Like Parmesan
No. 4: Whole Foods Market, Inc.|365 |Non Dairy Parmesan Style Shreds
No. 5: Uprise Foods| Cashew Parmesan
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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