Looking for the perfect vegan cheddar cheese to upgrade your meals? Whether you’re whipping up a creamy mac and cheese, sprinkling shreds on your favorite nachos, or making a delicious sandwich with slices, the right vegan cheddar can make all the difference. With options ranging from sharp and tangy to smooth and creamy, you can find the ideal substitute for traditional cheddar. Plus, if you’re into cooking, nut-free and organic choices can keep your recipes clean and healthy, while nutritional yeast can amp up that cheesy flavor you crave.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best vegan cheddar cheeses, from melt-in-your-mouth blocks to convenient powder for sprinkling on popcorn or mixing into a cheesy sauce. Whether you're looking for a vegetarian option with great nutrition or a perfect cheese for seasoning your favorite dishes, we’ve got you covered.
Quick List - Top Vegan Cheddar Cheese
Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia
Coconut Oil-Based Shreds With a Focus on Melting and B12 Fortification
Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia
Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Firm Texture and B12 Enrichment
Amazon.com Services LLC
Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Mild Flavor and Allergen-Free Formula
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.
Table of Contents
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Coconut Oil-Based Shreds With a Focus on Melting and B12 Fortification
Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Firm Texture and B12 Enrichment
Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Mild Flavor and Allergen-Free Formula
Coconut Oil-Based Slices With Chickpea Protein for a Slightly Higher Protein Content
Olive Oil-Based Shreds With Added Calcium and a Mild Texture
Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Smooth Texture and Minimal Ingredients
Coconut Oil-Based Shreds With Chickpea Protein and an Allergy-Friendly Formula
Vegan cheddar cheese is a plant-based alternative to traditional cheddar, made without dairy. It typically uses ingredients like coconut oil, potato starch, and tapioca to replicate the creamy texture and sharp flavor of real cheddar. Some brands also add nutritional yeast, beta-carotene, or annatto for color and a tangy, umami taste.
Many varieties melt similarly to dairy cheese, though the texture and flavor can vary depending on the brand and ingredients. While they offer a creamy, stretchy experience, the exact meltability and flavor differ, so experimenting with different brands can help you find your preferred choice.
When choosing a vegan cheddar cheese, check the fat and sodium content, as these can vary significantly. Many use coconut oil, which can lead to high saturated fat levels. While some fat is fine, excessive amounts may raise cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends less than 6% of total calories from saturated fat. For a lower-saturated-fat option, consider cheeses made with olive oil.
Sodium is also important, as some vegan cheeses contain high amounts to boost flavor. Too much sodium can raise blood pressure and cause water retention. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2,300 mg of sodium daily, aiming for 1,500 mg for most adults. Products with 5% DV or less sodium are low, while 20% DV or more is high.
If you prioritize meltability, choose oil- and starch-based vegan cheddar. Many brands use a blend of coconut oil, potato starch, and tapioca for a creamy texture and gooey, stretchy melt, perfect for grilled cheese or mac and cheese. These ingredients mimic dairy meltability without artificial additives.
Some brands use olive oil for creaminess, giving a smooth, velvety consistency. While coconut oil-based cheeses are stretchier, olive oil-based ones offer a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture, both using high-quality, natural ingredients to replicate traditional cheddar’s melt.
If you prefer vegan cheddar with a firmer texture, choose an oat-based option. While oats contribute to a creamy texture, they tend to keep the cheese more solid at room temperature. Oat-based cheeses may soften slightly when heated but won’t achieve the traditional "melt" seen in oil- and starch-based alternatives.
Although oat-based cheddar can still melt to some degree, it retains a firmer texture and lacks the gooeyness or stretchiness of other types. This makes it a good choice for those who prefer a cheese that holds its shape better, though it might not deliver the same meltability for dishes like grilled cheese or pizza.
Consider vegan cheddar cheeses fortified with vitamin B12 and calcium, especially on a plant-based diet for optimal nutrition. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products, so those avoiding dairy and meat are at risk of deficiency, especially vegans and long-term plant-based dieters. Fortified vegan cheddar helps support healthy nerve function and red blood cell production.
Calcium is another key nutrient often lacking in plant-based diets, and fortification improves the nutritional value of vegan cheeses. Choosing fortified options ensures you meet these essential needs while enjoying a dairy-free alternative.
Shreds and slices are the best options to mimic traditional dairy cheese in common applications. Shreds are highly versatile and ideal for melting in dishes like pizza, nachos, and mac and cheese. They distribute evenly, melt faster, and are convenient for cooking. Slices are preferred for sandwiches, burgers, and quick snacks, offering a familiar texture and easy portioning without crumbling.
While blocks provide flexibility for slicing, shredding, or cubing, they require more prep time. Powder is less common but useful for making sauces, seasoning popcorn, or adding cheesy flavor to various recipes. For convenience and ease in traditional dishes, shreds and slices are your best bet.
If you prefer clean-label options, check for Non-GMO Certification when choosing vegan cheddar cheese. Many consumers actively seek out products that are Non-GMO Project Verified to avoid artificial genetic modifications in the ingredients. This certification ensures the product is made with ingredients that haven’t been genetically altered, offering peace of mind for those who prioritize natural food choices.
Non-GMO-certified vegan cheddar cheeses use plant-based ingredients grown without genetic modification, aligning with the growing demand for transparency and clean ingredients. By choosing non-GMO products, you can enjoy your plant-based cheese knowing that it meets higher standards.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Calories | Total Fat Content | Sodium Content | Calcium % DV | Texture | Vitamin B12 | Gluten-Free | Soy-Free | Non-GMO | Ingredients | |||||
1 | Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia Violife|Just Like Cheddar Shreds | ![]() | Coconut Oil-Based Shreds With a Focus on Melting and B12 Fortification | 80 | 7g | 250mg | 0% | Shreds | Filtered Water, Coconut Oil, Food Starch-modified (Potato & Corn), Corn Starch, Salt (Sea Salt), Cheddar Flavor (Vegan Sources), Olive Extract, Paprika Extract & Beta Carotene (Color), Vitamin B12, Powdered Cellulose Added To Prevent Caking | |||||
2 | Daiya Cheddar Shreds | ![]() | Tapioca-Based Shreds With a Small Boost of Chickpea Protein | 100 | 7g | 240mg | unknown | Shreds | unknown | Filtered Water, Tapioca Flour, Coconut Oil, Expeller Pressed: Canola and/or Safflower Oil, Vegan Natural Flavors, Chickpea Protein, Salt, Tricalcium Phosphate, Lactic Acid (Vegan), Konjac Flour, Yeast Extract, Xanthan Gum, Annatto Color, Turmeric Color, Nutritional Yeast, Potassium Salt | ||||
3 | Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia Violife|Just Like Mature Cheddar Slices | ![]() | Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Firm Texture and B12 Enrichment | 60 | 4.5g | 180mg | unknown | Slices | Filtered Water, Coconut Oil, Food Starch-Modified (Potato & Corn), Potato Starch, Salt (Sea Salt), Mature Cheddar Flavor (Vegan Sources), Olive Extract, Beta Carotene (Color), Vitamin B12. | |||||
4 | Amazon.com Services LLC AmazonFresh|Plant Based Cheese Cheddar Slices | ![]() | Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Mild Flavor and Allergen-Free Formula | 60 | 4.5g | 180mg | unknown | Slices | Filtered water, Coconut oil, Food starch-modified (Potato & Corn), Potato starch, Salt (Sea salt), Cheddar flavor (Vegan sources), Olive extract, Beta carotene (color), Vitamin B12 | |||||
5 | Kraft Heinz Foods Company NotCo|Cheddar Style Not Cheese | ![]() | Coconut Oil-Based Slices With Chickpea Protein for a Slightly Higher Protein Content | 70 | 5g | 170mg | 0% | Slices | unknown | unknown | unknown | WATER, COCONUT OIL, CHICKPEA PROTEIN, MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF SALT, SOYBEAN OIL, NATURAL FLAVOR, CARRAGEENAN, SORBIC ACID AS A PRESERVATIVE, LACTIC ACID, PAPRIKA EXTRACT (COLOR), ANNATTO EXTRACT (COLOR), ROSEMARY EXTRACT | ||
6 | GOOD PLANeT Foods, Inc. Cheddar Style Olive Olive Oil Cheese Shreds | ![]() | Olive Oil-Based Shreds With Added Calcium and a Mild Texture | 80 | 6g | 270mg | 10% | Shreds | unknown | unknown | Filtered Water, Olive Oil, Potato Starch, Tapioca Starch, Faba Protein, Natural Flavors (Vegan Sources), Sea Salt, Calcium Citrate, Dextrose, Carob Bean Gum, Xanthan Gum, Paprika And Beta Carotene (Color), Powdered Cellulose Added To Prevent Caking | |||
7 | LIVING JIN Magic Cheese Cheddar Style | ![]() | Coconut Oil-Based Cheese Powder for Versatile Use | 74 | 6g | 160mg | 0% | Powder | unknown | unknown | Coconut Oil Powder, Coconut Milk Powder, corn Starch, Dextrin, Salt, Yeast Extract, Soybean Powder, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum.Annatto Extract, Natural Flavor [Contains : Soy, Wheat, Tree Nuts(Coconut)] | |||
8 | Whole Foods Market, Inc. 365 |Plant-Based Cheddar-Style Cheese Alternative | ![]() | Coconut Oil-Based Slices With a Smooth Texture and Minimal Ingredients | 70 | 5g | 240mg | 0% | Slices | unknown | unknown | Water, Highly Refined Coconut Oil, Modified Potato Starch, Modified Cornstarch, Potato Starch, Sea Salt, Natural Flavor, Olive Extract, Color (Paprika Extract, Beta-carotene). | |||
9 | Never Better Foods Better Than Cheddar | ![]() | Coconut Oil-Based Shreds With Chickpea Protein and an Allergy-Friendly Formula | 90 | 7g | 220mg | 8% | Shreds | Filtered water, Coconut oil, Potato starch, Tapioca starch, Non-GMO sunflower oil, Sea salt, Calcium Citrate, Chickpea protein, Natural flavor (vegan sources), Paprika and Beta carotene (color), Potato protein, Konjac and Xanthan gums, Lactic acid, Powdered cellulose added to prevent caking | |||||
10 | Daiya Medium Cheddar Style Block | ![]() | Oat-Based Block for Versatile Use | 90 | 7g | 260mg | 10% | Blocks | OAT BASE (FILTERED WATER, OAT FLOUR), COCONUT OIL, MODIFIED POTATO STARCH, NATURAL FLAVORS, SALT, CHICKPEA PROTEIN, CHICKPEA FLOUR, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, LACTIC ACID, ANNATTO COLOR, VITAMIN B12. |
Violife’s Just Like Cheddar Shreds are a coconut oil-based alternative to dairy cheese, free from common allergens like soy, nuts, and gluten. Each 1/4 cup serving contains 80 calories, 7 grams of fat, with added vitamin B12.
These shreds are certified by The Vegan Society and Non-GMO Project Verified. Designed for melting, Violife’s cheddar-style shreds contain food starches and cellulose to maintain structure.
Calories | 80 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 7g |
Sodium Content | 250mg |
Calcium % DV | 0% |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Filtered Water, Coconut Oil, Food Starch-modified (Potato & Corn), Corn Starch, Salt (Sea Salt), Cheddar Flavor (Vegan Sources), Olive Extract, Paprika Extract & Beta Carotene (Color), Vitamin B12, Powdered Cellulose Added To Prevent Caking |
Daiya’s Cheddar Shreds are made with tapioca flour, coconut oil, and chickpea protein, offering a slightly different composition than other coconut oil-based options. Each 1/4 cup serving contains 100 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 1 gram of protein, with added calcium from tricalcium phosphate. They are free from dairy, soy, gluten, and nuts and are Non-GMO Project Verified.
These shreds are formulated to melt and stretch, with xanthan and konjac gum helping to replicate cheese’s elasticity. The inclusion of chickpea protein provides a small amount of protein, though it remains lower than dairy cheddar.
Calories | 100 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 7g |
Sodium Content | 240mg |
Calcium % DV | unknown |
Vitamin B12 | unknown |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Filtered Water, Tapioca Flour, Coconut Oil, Expeller Pressed: Canola and/or Safflower Oil, Vegan Natural Flavors, Chickpea Protein, Salt, Tricalcium Phosphate, Lactic Acid (Vegan), Konjac Flour, Yeast Extract, Xanthan Gum, Annatto Color, Turmeric Color, Nutritional Yeast, Potassium Salt |
Violife’s Mature Cheddar Style Slices are a coconut oil-based alternative that contains no protein or calcium but includes added vitamin B12. Each slice (20g) has 60 calories, 4.5 grams of fat, and 180 mg of sodium.
The product is free from dairy, soy, nuts, gluten, and preservatives. These slices offer a firmer consistency than shredded varieties and are designed for use in sandwiches or melted dishes.
Calories | 60 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 4.5g |
Sodium Content | 180mg |
Calcium % DV | unknown |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Filtered Water, Coconut Oil, Food Starch-Modified (Potato & Corn), Potato Starch, Salt (Sea Salt), Mature Cheddar Flavor (Vegan Sources), Olive Extract, Beta Carotene (Color), Vitamin B12. |
Amazon Fresh’s Plant-Based Cheddar Slices use coconut oil and modified starches to replicate the structure of dairy cheese. Each 7.05-ounce package contains slices that provide 60 calories and 4.5 grams of fat.
The product is free from dairy, gluten, soy, and nuts and is Non-GMO Project Verified. With a texture meant for both cold and melted applications, these slices function similarly to other coconut oil-based cheddar alternatives.
Calories | 60 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 4.5g |
Sodium Content | 180mg |
Calcium % DV | unknown |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Filtered water, Coconut oil, Food starch-modified (Potato & Corn), Potato starch, Salt (Sea salt), Cheddar flavor (Vegan sources), Olive extract, Beta carotene (color), Vitamin B12 |
Kraft NotCo’s Cheddar Style Slices contain coconut oil, chickpea protein, and modified food starch. Each slice (22g) has 70 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 2 grams of protein, making it one of the few vegan cheddar options with a slightly higher protein content. It contains no artificial dyes and uses rosemary extract as a natural preservative.
These slices are designed for both hot and cold use, melting similarly to processed dairy cheese. The presence of chickpea protein makes them nutritionally distinct from coconut oil-only varieties
Calories | 70 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 5g |
Sodium Content | 170mg |
Calcium % DV | 0% |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | unknown |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Non-GMO | unknown |
Ingredients | WATER, COCONUT OIL, CHICKPEA PROTEIN, MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF SALT, SOYBEAN OIL, NATURAL FLAVOR, CARRAGEENAN, SORBIC ACID AS A PRESERVATIVE, LACTIC ACID, PAPRIKA EXTRACT (COLOR), ANNATTO EXTRACT (COLOR), ROSEMARY EXTRACT |
GOOD PLANET’s Olive Oil Cheddar Shreds use olive oil instead of coconut oil, along with potato and tapioca starches. Each 1/4 cup serving contains 80 calories, 6 grams of fat, 1 gram of protein, and 122 mg of calcium.
These shreds are one of the few vegan cheddar options that include added calcium. While they are lower in saturated fat than coconut oil-based options, they still provide a melt-friendly consistency with the help of food starches and gums.
Calories | 80 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 6g |
Sodium Content | 270mg |
Calcium % DV | 10% |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | unknown |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Filtered Water, Olive Oil, Potato Starch, Tapioca Starch, Faba Protein, Natural Flavors (Vegan Sources), Sea Salt, Calcium Citrate, Dextrose, Carob Bean Gum, Xanthan Gum, Paprika And Beta Carotene (Color), Powdered Cellulose Added To Prevent Caking |
Living JIN’s Magic Cheese is a dry cheese-style powder made from coconut oil, cornstarch, and yeast extract. It can be mixed with water to create a sauce for mac and cheese, nachos, or dips.
As a powdered product, it has a long shelf life and does not require refrigeration until prepared. The coconut oil contributes to a creamy consistency, while the yeast extract provides a cheesy flavor.
Calories | 74 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 6g |
Sodium Content | 160mg |
Calcium % DV | 0% |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | unknown |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Coconut Oil Powder, Coconut Milk Powder, corn Starch, Dextrin, Salt, Yeast Extract, Soybean Powder, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum.Annatto Extract, Natural Flavor [Contains : Soy, Wheat, Tree Nuts(Coconut)] |
365’s Plant-Based Cheddar Slices use coconut oil and modified starches for texture. Each slice (23g) contains 70 calories and 5 grams of fat. The product is free from dairy, soy, and gluten.
These slices function similarly to other coconut oil-based vegan cheeses, with a smooth texture that can be used in sandwiches or melted applications. The formulation is free from artificial preservatives.
Calories | 70 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 5g |
Sodium Content | 240mg |
Calcium % DV | 0% |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | unknown |
Soy-Free | unknown |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Water, Highly Refined Coconut Oil, Modified Potato Starch, Modified Cornstarch, Potato Starch, Sea Salt, Natural Flavor, Olive Extract, Color (Paprika Extract, Beta-carotene). |
Never Better Foods’ Better Than Cheddar Shreds use coconut oil, tapioca starch, and chickpea protein. They contain no cholesterol or sugar and are free from major allergens, including gluten, soy, and peanuts.
These shreds offer a balance between stretch and firmness, making them suitable for melting applications. The inclusion of chickpea protein distinguishes them slightly from pure coconut oil-based cheeses.
Calories | 90 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 7g |
Sodium Content | 220mg |
Calcium % DV | 8% |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | Filtered water, Coconut oil, Potato starch, Tapioca starch, Non-GMO sunflower oil, Sea salt, Calcium Citrate, Chickpea protein, Natural flavor (vegan sources), Paprika and Beta carotene (color), Potato protein, Konjac and Xanthan gums, Lactic acid, Powdered cellulose added to prevent caking |
Daiya’s Medium Cheddar Block is made with an oat and chickpea base, differentiating it from coconut oil-heavy alternatives. Each ounce (28g) contains 90 calories and 7 grams of fat, with added vitamin B12.
This block format allows for slicing, shredding, or cubing, making it more versatile than pre-shredded varieties. The oat base gives it a slightly different texture, though it still melts similarly to other vegan cheeses.
Calories | 90 |
---|---|
Total Fat Content | 7g |
Sodium Content | 260mg |
Calcium % DV | 10% |
Vitamin B12 | |
Gluten-Free | |
Soy-Free | |
Non-GMO | |
Ingredients | OAT BASE (FILTERED WATER, OAT FLOUR), COCONUT OIL, MODIFIED POTATO STARCH, NATURAL FLAVORS, SALT, CHICKPEA PROTEIN, CHICKPEA FLOUR, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, LACTIC ACID, ANNATTO COLOR, VITAMIN B12. |
No. 1: Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia|Violife|Just Like Cheddar Shreds
No. 2: Daiya|Cheddar Shreds
No. 3: Arivia Anonymi Viomichaniki & Emporiki Etairia|Violife|Just Like Mature Cheddar Slices
No. 4: Amazon.com Services LLC|AmazonFresh|Plant Based Cheese Cheddar Slices
No. 5: Kraft Heinz Foods Company|NotCo|Cheddar Style Not Cheese
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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