November is National Vegan Month! Vegan diets have been shown to improve digestion, decrease the risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, all while helping to sustain our environment. Pretty cool, huh?
Fortunately, plant-based alternatives are gaining popularity, and major brands and grocery stores are quick to spark the public’s interest in new, unique, and affordable options. What used to be a long, drawn-out night of cooking and preparing food has turned into quick dinner options in the freezer aisle. The demand for these alternatives is leading to higher quality, more nutrient-dense, and (most importantly) delicious vegan products available on the market.
We rounded up the best stores where you can find plant-based options and we asked some of our favorite dietitians about the best foods to put on your next grocery list. Take this list to the store to find the most delicious and nutritious options on the market to fuel your plant-based lifestyle.
10 Major Grocery Stores that Carry Vegan Alternatives
- Whole Foods
- Stop and Shop
- Hannaford
- Target
- Costco
- Walmart
- Wegmans
- Safeway
- Kroger/Ralph’s
- Trader Joes
Vegan burgers
Courtney of fit_healthy_you says “Burgers are one of my all-time favorite foods to eat (especially with a side of fries). I love burger patties made with legumes such as chickpeas or black beans and Beyond Meat patties aren’t too bad either!”
Nutrient Analysis: Beyond Meat Burgers and most plant-based burgers have much less cholesterol and saturated fat (yet more fiber!) and the same amount of protein as a hamburger patty made with meat.
Vegan milk
Ashley RD, LDN of @plantcenteredprep says: “My favorite plant-based milk is the Good Karma Flaxmilk + Protein. It has Pea protein in there to make it a bit more satiating. The flavor is on point, it is my favorite, and my go-to! My favorite way to use it is in oatmeal bowls by far!”
Nutrient Analysis: Good Karma Flaxmilk + Protein has less saturated fat and cholesterol, far less sugar, and the same amount of protein as 1% cows milk.
Vegan mozzarella cheese
Taylor RD, LDN of @taylorwolframrd says “Daiya Mozzarella Shreds are widely available, often in non-specialty grocery stores. Great for pizza and other Italian dishes such as baked ziti.”
Nutrient Analysis: Daiya Mozzarella Shreds have far less saturated fat and cholesterol, but less protein, than mozzarella shreds made with cow’s milk.
Vegan cheese platters
Taylor RD, LDN of @taylorwolframrd says “Miyoko’s Creamery Artisan Cheeses (multiple flavors) is the best tasting “fancy” vegan cheese. Great for parties and wine nights. Pairs well with baguettes and crackers.”
Nutrient Analysis: Miyoko’s Creamery Artisan Cheeses have about the same amount of saturated fat, less cholesterol, and less protein than artisan cheese made with cow’s milk.
Vegan cheese slices
Taylor RD, LDN of @taylorwolframrd says “Follow Your Heart provolone slices are my favorite vegan cheese slices for sandwiches! They’re also delicious with crackers.”
Nutrient Analysis: Follow Your Heart Provolone Style Cheese has slightly less saturated fat, less cholesterol, less sodium, but far less protein than provolone slices made with cow’s milk.
Vegan cream cheese
Taylor RD, LDN of @taylorwolframrd says “KiteHill Cream Cheese is THE BEST tasting vegan cream cheese! Delicious on bagels and also with crackers and pretzels.”
Nutrient Analysis: KiteHill Cream Cheese has far less saturated fat and cholesterol, and the same amount of protein as Philadelphia Plain Cream Cheese.
Plan ahead
Take note that when following a plant-based diet, it’s important to evaluate your nutrient status for common nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, iron, selenium, omega- 3 fatty acids, and zinc. It may take more planning ahead or working with a dietitian to ensure you’re fully meeting your nutrient requirements and supplementation may be required depending on your exact diet.