Is Nutella Finally Going Vegan? Here’s What We Know So Far
For decades, Nutella has been a household favorite, spreading its creamy blend of hazelnuts and cocoa onto breakfast tables worldwide. But for those following a plant-based lifestyle, Nutella has always been off-limits due to its inclusion of skimmed milk powder. Now, Ferrero, the company behind Nutella, is making waves by introducing a dairy-free version—Nutella Plant-Based.
Nutella Plant-Based: What we know so far
Ferrero officially announced its vegan-friendly Nutella Plant-Based in late 2023, responding to the increasing demand for plant-based alternatives. This move aligns with a growing market trend, as consumers seek ethical and dairy-free versions of their favorite foods.
As of now, the product is available in select European countries, including France, Italy, Germany, and Belgium. These regions are strongholds for Nutella, with France alone accounting for roughly 25% of global consumption. However, consumers in the UK and the US are still waiting for their chance to try the dairy-free version.
Why isn’t Nutella Plant-Based available worldwide yet?
While Ferrero has not given an official release date for the UK or US, the company has stated that global expansion depends on the product’s reception in its initial markets. Food companies often follow a phased approach for new product launches, allowing them to gauge consumer interest and refine logistics before committing to wider distribution.
Given the rapid growth of the plant-based sector—estimated to reach over $61 billion by 2028—there’s a strong possibility that Nutella Plant-Based will soon expand to more markets.
What makes Nutella Plant-Based different from the original?
Nutella Plant-Based retains its signature hazelnut and cocoa flavor while eliminating dairy. However, Ferrero has yet to confirm whether this version will also be free from palm oil, an ingredient that has long been criticized for its environmental impact. Many consumers hope this new product will not only cater to vegan diets but also embrace more sustainable sourcing.
What are the best alternatives to Nutella Plant-Based?
For those who don’t want to wait, several vegan hazelnut spreads are already available in the UK and the US:
UK Alternatives:
Vego Fine Hazelnut Chocolate Spread – Made with Fairtrade ingredients and free from palm oil.
Fabalous Organic Hazelnut and Cocoa Spread – A unique alternative that includes chickpeas for added nutrition.
Mr Organic Dairy-Free Chocolate and Hazelnut Spread – A rich, organic option without dairy.
US Alternatives:
Ghia Gianduja Hazelnut Spread – A premium vegan spread made without palm oil.
Nutiva Organic Hazelnut Spread – A plant-based, non-GMO option made with coconut oil, flaxseed, and chia.
With Ferrero finally stepping into the plant-based market, the launch of Nutella Plant-Based marks an exciting moment for dairy-free chocolate lovers. If the brand successfully maintains the beloved taste of the original while making it accessible to a broader audience, it could set a new standard for plant-based indulgence.
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