Is Scallion French-Style Soft Cheese Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I find the formulation of this product fascinating because it relies on the natural emulsifying properties of nuts rather than dairy proteins. The primary ingredient is cashew nuts. When blended with filtered water, cashews create a rich, fatty base that mimics the mouthfeel of traditional French cheese spreads. This is the industry standard for high-quality vegan soft cheeses.

To achieve the specific flavor profile, the manufacturers use onion powder and dried scallions. These provide the savory, aromatic notes characteristic of scallion cheese without using fresh produce that might spoil the shelf stability. Sea salt acts as both a flavor enhancer and a natural preservative.

The tanginess you expect from a fermented cheese is achieved here through lemon juice and L. acidophilus. Unlike traditional cheese which uses rennet and animal milk, this product uses a vegan-friendly bacterial culture to ferment the cashew base, creating that distinct 'cheesy' acidity. There are no flags in this ingredient list; it is entirely plant-derived.

Nutritional Value

Because this cheese is based on cashews, it is calorie-dense, primarily due to the healthy monounsaturated fats found in the nuts. It fits well into a whole-food plant-based diet, though portion control is key if you are monitoring your fat intake. Unlike dairy cheese, this product is free of cholesterol and lactose, making it easier to digest for many people.

The sodium content is moderate, relying on sea salt for flavor. It is also a source of plant-based protein, though not as high as animal-derived cheese. For those watching their sugar intake, this savory product typically contains negligible sugar, making it a guilt-free indulgence compared to sweet vegan alternatives.