Now, several plant-based brands including Wendy’s Nutty Cheeses and Miyoko’s Creamery have developed the perfect vegan and dairy-free artisan cheeses to adorn your cheese board. There are actually enough vegan artisan cheeses to make an entirely vegan cheese board that will keep your guests happy –– whether or not they are vegan.

We all know that dairy-free cheese is no longer hard to find, but often, consumers still complain about the taste and texture of store-bought cheese alternatives. That’s why brands such as Treeline and Miyoko’s have worked to create dairy-free cheeses that give us the same experience as their animal-based counterparts.

What Is Vegan Cheese?

Despite the health and environmental, about 230 million Americans eat cheese every year. Vegan cheese had a significant but short boom coinciding with America’s interest in plant-based milk, but sales have waned in recent years. But why? One answer is taste. But now, vegan brands have doubled their efforts to create dairy-free cheeses that give consumers the same taste, texture, and look as traditional dairy cheese.

Vegan cheese is made from a wide variety of ingredients including cashews, oil, proteins, cultures, and more. Some plant-based cheeses also go through a fermentation process to replicate the funky taste of traditional cheeses. It is important to check the ingredients and nutritional information on vegan cheese because some dairy-free cheeses contain substantially more saturated fats, especially those made from coconut oil.

To accompany these brands, there are also plenty of recipes to make your own artisan cheese at home. Try a cashew-based cheese at your next dinner party. This way you can moderate your diet between processed store-bought brands and homemade whole-food options. While you’re at it, check out the healthiest vegan crackers to add to your board.

READ MORE: How to Make an Epic Vegan Cheese Board

Eating Vegan Cheese is Better For Your Health

Remember that when you switch out dairy cheeses with vegan cheese, you are providing healthier options for you and your guests. Picking healthier dairy-free artisan cheeses can help reduce the risk of several chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer, among others. Consuming more dairy significantly increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

So, when you construct your vegan charcuterie board, make sure you find a brand with less saturated fat than dairy cheese. For example, one ounce of brie cheese contains about 5 grams of saturated fat, whereas Laughing Cow Plant-Based contains 2.5 grams.

READ MORE: 8 Ways Avoiding Dairy Can Benefit Your Health 

The Best Vegan Artisan Cheeses

Boursin Dairy-Free Galic & Herbs

This creamy spread hits every high note that the brand’s dairy counterpart does. Rich, spreadable, and addictive, add this to a charcuterie board and you’ll be shocked at how fast it goes. This is a mouthwatering addition to your holiday spread, but watch out for other 5 grams of saturated fat per serving!

Calories 90

Total Fat 8g, Saturated Fat 5g

Protein 0g, Fiber 0g

Miyoko’s Double Cream Sun Dried Tomato

This sun-dried tomato cheese is creamy, nicely spreadable, and very tangy. It has a good umami taste and contains the perfect-sized bits of sun-dried tomato that complement the spread instead of overwhelming them. Miyoko’s cheese is delicious, but definitely high in fat. For heart health, make sure to eat this vegan cheese in moderation. 

Calories 120

Total Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 4.5

Protein 3g, Fiber 1g

Miyoko’s French Style Winter Truffle

This truffle cheese wheel will elevate any dish. Rich, complex, and earthy, this cheese offers a great umami flavor. This cheese isn’t as tangy as other plant-based cheeses and offers a nice, round creaminess that is a great dairy-like taste, especially to serve to those who may not love other vegan cheeses. 

Calories 80

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 3.5g

Protein 2g, Fiber 1g

Reine Fauxgonzola

Reine has perfected its fermentation process and consistency while using high-quality, organic ingredients free of soy, GMO, dairy, and gluten. They have eight flavors to choose from, but at the top of the list is the Fauxgonzola, which was the top pick from all the ‘cheese’ rounds in our test. It’s made with organic blue-green spirulina (which research suggests has antioxidant and inflammation-fighting properties) and its blue striations make a beautiful display.

Calories 160

Total Fat 12.5g, Saturated Fat 2.6g

Protein 5g, Fiber 1g

Treeline Goat-Style Herb Goat Cheese

If you love tangy cheese, this one is for you. It’s zesty and creamy and pairs well with any kind of crackers. Our samplers tried to melt this cheese on a pizza and it got a bit hard, so stick to using this in salads or as a topping. This vegan cheese is packed with 3 grams of protein and only contains 1 gram of saturated fat per serving.

Calories 90

Total Fat 6g Saturated Fat 1g

Protein 3g, Fiber 1g

Vromage Mozzarella

While you can’t really go wrong with any of them, the Pepperjack and Mozzarella are both impressive. You also might recall the name, Vromage, since Prince Harry and Meghan Markel had the cheeses served at the royal wedding. These artisan, vegan cheeses are freshly made using a variety of ingredients that can include organic cashews, macadamias, pine nuts, pistachios, almonds, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds, 

Nutritional Information Varies: Check Out Vromage’s Online Store

The post The Best Vegan Artisan Cheeses for Your Holiday Charcuterie Board appeared first on The Beet.

Here we taste-tested healthy store-bought crackers and found a few classics and some brand new ones that are healthy and crisp, with the perfect blend of salt and flavor. Serve these whole grain crackers that are also high in fiber to your family or keep them handy as a snack. Yes, classic Triscuits made the cut.

So when you go to the store, just be sure to find one of these crackers to take home. If you’re curious about how your favorite cracker stacks up, simply check the labels and avoid sketchy processed “vegetable oils” as well as any added sugar. Always make sure the first ingredient on the label is a whole food such as whole wheat or minimally processed flour. The higher the fiber and the lower the calories per cracker the better.

Happy cracker tasting. Add your review to the Beet Meters below and let us know what you think! 

The Healthiest Vegan Crackers

Bob’s Red Mill Rosemary Oat Crackers

Bob’s Red Mill makes some of the healthiest product lines around, so if you’re looking for organic ingredients, minimally processed or full of healthy whole foods, try these Rosemary Oat Crackers. They are made with oat flour so they are not only tasty but gluten-free!

Servings: 8 Crackers

Calories 130

Total Fat 4.5g, Saturated Fat 0g

Fiber 2g, Protein 3g

Back to Nature Whole Lotta Seeds Crackers

There;’s so much to love about Back to Nature Crackers: The recycled cardboard box, the fact that the plant sends 95 percent of its solid waste back to be recycled, and prints the labels using vegetable ink. Plus the crackers themselves are made with flax, chia, hemp, and sunflower seeds and have 7 grams of protein per serving. Stock up and serve these to guests. They are as visually elegant as they are delicious.

Servings: 4 Crackers

Calories 150

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 0.5g

Fiber 2g, Protein 7g

Hu Kitchen Everything Grain-Free Crackers

There’s a taste to indulgent crackers that melt in your mouth and Hu Kitchen manages to satisfy that richness but with truly healthy ingredients. These grain-free crackers are both gluten-free and have a wholesome retro taste. Made from almond, coconut, and cassava flour, you get 4 grams of protein with your cracker snack!

Servings: 22 Crackers

Calories 120

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 1g

Fiber 3g, Protein 4g

Mary’s Gone Crackers Super Seed Classic

Mary’s Gone Cracker has a variety of crackers to choose from but if you love a punch a flavor, then you need to try the Super Seed line. Each bite is crunchy and packed with tons of flavor and spices. One of our favorites is the everything-flavored crackers made with brown rice, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and sea salt. Dip these crackers in whipped vegan feta, vegan pesto, or baba ganoush.

Servings: 13 Crackers

Calories 140

Total Fat 5g, Saturated Fat 0.5g

Fiber 3g, Protein 3g

Milton’s Craft Bakers Organic Multi-Grain

Anyone who loves a multi-grain taste will adore these crackers, which are both healthy and low-calorie. The texture adds such a pleasure to your snack that you need less cheese or spread to feel fully satisfied. Keep these on hand for every occasion.

Servings: 3 Crackers

Calories 70

Total Fat 2.5g, Saturated Fat 0

Fiber 1g, Protein 1g

Simple Mills Almond Flour Fine Ground Sea Salt

This simple, clean cracker is made from a blend of almonds, sunflower seeds, and flax seeds, providing shoppers with a tasty, allergen-friendly cracker. Even though this cracker has 8 grams of fat per serving, the seed- and nut-based fats are packed with vitamin E and omega-3s. These slightly salty crackers are an excellent addition to your vegan cheese board.

Servings: 17 crackers

Calories 150

Total Fat 8g, Saturated Fat 0.5g

Fiber 2g, Protein 3g

Triscuit Original Crackers

Perhaps it’s a pleasant surprise to know that the most classic cracker of all, the Triscuit, is also a healthy choice. Made with whole wheat and salt, and no added sugar, six crackers have 120 calories, and 3 grams of fiber (plus 3 grams of protein). In the same way Shredded Wheat tastes healthy, so do Triscuits, which are essentially the same thing. They are like a mini basket weave of whole wheat fibers, each one a miniature floor mat.

Servings: 6 crackers

Calories 120

Total Fat 3.5g, Saturated Fat 0g

Fiber 3g, Protein 3g

Wasa Multigrain Crispbread

Make no mistake about it, Wasa tastes healthy like eating cardboard or tree bark, but in the best possible way. Once you get a taste for them, you don’t like a richer or creamier less crisp cracker. These are fun to break into two and watch the dust float in the air before settling. With 5 grams of fiber and 60 calories per serving, these are like like architectural planks, ready to be stacked with any type of cheese, spread, or hummus. A serving size of 2 crackers is almost too much. You’ll only need one to feel full and satisfied!

Serving: 1 Crispbread

Calories 35

Total Fat 0g, Saturated Fat 0g

Fiber 3g, Protein 2g

The post The Best Healthy Crackers to Buy for Your Next Dinner Party appeared first on The Beet.

When you go plant-based, you may wonder,  Where could I wake up on Sunday and grab a delicious, fluffy, bagel, slathered in dairy-free vegan cream cheese? Bagel shop owners may look at you quizzically when asked if they carry any non-dairy cream cheese (although many shops in New Jersey and New York carry tofu cream cheese), so if you’re searching for a delicious non-dairy schmear, we’ve tasted the best dairy-free cream cheeses on the market to find the very best vegan cream cheese, ranked for health and taste.

For the most scientific test possible, we set out to a favorite bagel shop and ordered half a dozen bagels to test different vegan spreads: Two everything, two jalapeño, and two cinnamon raisin bagels (all vegan — make sure to double-check your local spot doesn’t add milk or eggs to any recipe)

Cut Out Dairy Products For Your Health

Even though it’s easy to have a soft spot for cream cheese, cutting out dairy products from your regular diet can present significant health benefits. By consuming more dairy, you increase your risk for several diseases or health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and more. For example, regular dairy consumption leads to a 60 percent higher risk of prostate cancer and an 80 percent higher risk of breast cancer.

Dairy also leads to several other chronic conditions or problems such as inflammation and acne. The easiest way to keep your body healthy is to phase out dairy products, and yes, that includes cream cheese. Simply adopting a plant-based cream cheese option to your diet can help you keep your body healthier in your day-to-day life.

READ MORE: 8 Ways Avoiding Dairy Can Benefit Your Health

The Best Dairy-Free and Vegan Cream Cheese Alternatives

In this taste test, we tried Miyoko’s Sensational Scallion Vegan Cream Cheese, Kite Hill Everything Cream Cheese, Violife’s Just like Cream Cheese, Tofutti’s Better than Cream Cheese, and Daiya Plain Cream Cheese Style Spread. ‘

Daiya Plain Cream Cheese Spread

This one was a pleasant surprise; a tangy, creamy spread that did a pretty good job of mimicking the original dairy spread. Surprisingly sweet, as if it had a dash of vanilla in it, this cream cheese is a perfect companion for a cinnamon raisin bagel or anything you want to add a hint of sweetness to.

Calories 60

Total Fat 5g, Saturated Fat 4.5g

Protein 0g

Kite Hill Everything Cream Cheese

The texture, while pleasantly whipped and spreadable, is grainy, and the everything seasoning got lost within the tub. The taste wasn’t terrible, it just didn’t taste like cream cheese; the texture is more reminiscent of creamy hummus. I still finished this tub by dipping various crackers and bread into it, but it didn’t serve the original purpose on a bagel, although it was quite delicious as a spread on crackers or sandwiches.

Calories 70

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 0g

Protein 2g

Miyoko’s Sensational Scallion Vegan Cream Cheese

While this formula was a little heavier and harder to spread than the others, it was the taste that left something to be desired. Strangely, the most overpowering flavor was a lemony citrus taste, masking even the divine savoriness of the scallions. When I mixed equal parts of Miyoko’s Sensational Scallion with another plain cream cheese it evened out this zingy, acidic taste and was far more pleasant. Next time, I might try to mix chopped scallions into my favorite cream cheese instead of buying this pre-made option.

Calories 90

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 2.5g

Protein 3g

Philadelphia Plant-Based Original Cream Cheese

When Philadelphia Cream Cheese announced it was coming out with an all-plant-based dairy-free formula I practically leaped at the chance to try it. A family favorite for generations, I was practically raised on it. The taste and consistency did not disappoint. On a bagel or in a recipe (cream cheese frosting anyone?) this is the exact same as its parent brand and you could easily fool anyone. Glancing at the label, I was shocked to see it has 6 grams of Saturated Fat and the first ingredient is coconut oil. If you are eating plant-based to avoid unhealthy heart-disease-promoting foods, sat fat from coconut oil is as clogging as that from animal products like butter. If you’re in it for the planet, animals, or a dairy allergy, this is a great choice for you. Keep it handy all during the holidays and everyone will spread it on with abandon!

Calories 60

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 6g

Protein 0g

Tofutti Better than Cream Cheese

Tofutti is probably the most widely available cream cheese, so it’s likely the non-dairy cream cheese served in most bagel spots that actually carry non-dairy options.  This spread is muted beige and slightly grainy, and its tofu roots definitely don’t go unnoticed. While this spread is by no means bad, and I would use it in a pinch, there is something about the aftertaste that I’m not sold on. Almost playdough-y, there’s a distinct bitterness that comes through after the bite.

Calories 90

Total Fat 8g, Saturated Fat 4g

Protein 1g

Trader Joe’s Vegan Cream Cheese

Trader Joe’s has recently updated its vegan cream cheese formulation this year, and it’s made quite an improvement to the taste of this spread. Thick, creamy, and reminiscent of a block of Philadelphia cream cheese, this dairy-free schmear is a great, affordable vegan cream cheese option. It has a mild flavor and doesn’t come across as too tofu-y. It spreads nicely on a bagel or toast, and benefits from mix-ins like scallions or TJ’s everything bagel seasoning.

Calories 90

Total Fat 9g, Saturated Fat 8g

Protein 0g

Treeline Dairy-Free Herb Garlic Soft French-Style

This is not your average plant-based cheese, or in fact, any cheese. This kind of cashew-based creation elevates any meal and could fool cheese lovers into believing that it’s real dairy cheese. When I gave my friend a slice of a baguette and Treeline cheese, she couldn’t believe it was vegan and we basically finished the entire container in one sitting. This option is one of the best for shoppers looking for a heart-healthy option with only 1 gram of saturated fat per serving.

Calories 90

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 1g

Protein 3g

Violife Just Like Cream Cheese

Wow. This stuff is the real deal: texture, appearance, taste, and slight inclination to melt. Violife’s Just Like Cream Cheese Original leaves almost nothing to be desired, besides maybe a larger tub. Creamy, smooth, and spreadable, this has none of the grainy texture or watery formulas that other non-dairy cream cheeses often have. Mix in sriracha hot sauce or scallions and this easily becomes flavored cream cheese, or try Violife’s garlic & herbs flavor.

Calories 70

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 6g

Protein 0g

The Bottom Line: When it comes to comfort foods, it can be hard to find plant-based options that feel like they fill the void left after eliminating animal products. Luckily, our taste buds adapt to a plant-based lifestyle, and things that may have tasted far from similar to their animal-product predecessors end up tasting nearly identical to the “real thing” after 1-2 months of going entirely plant-based.

Want to make dairy-free cream cheese from scratch? Try this plant-based homemade cream cheese recipe. 

The post The Best Non-Dairy Cream Cheeses That Taste As Good As The Real Thing appeared first on The Beet.

More than ever, younger consumers –– especially Gen Z –– prefer to purchase non-alcoholic drinks in favor of conventional liquor or alcoholic beverages. About 46 percent of drinkers hope to reduce their alcohol consumption with 52 percent actively replacing alcohol with non-alcoholic drinks, and this growing “sober curious” trend is driven primarily by younger Americans, according to consumer insight platform, Veylinx.

“Driven by younger consumers, the non-alcoholic beer, wine, and cocktails category is surging in popularity. People trying to cut down their drinking are finding more and more alternatives on retail shelves and in bars and restaurants,” Anouar El Haji, CEO of Veylinx, said. “Our research found that they’re willing to pay premium prices for non-alcoholic versions of ready-to-drink cocktails. The rise of the ‘sober curious’ movement gives brands countless opportunities for growth in this segment.”

What Is a Non-Alcoholic Drink?

Cutting down on drinking alcohol can feel intimidating, but several brands have developed the best non-alcoholic drinks including mocktails, alcohol-free spirits, and non-alcoholic beers. Now, you can enjoy a mixer or party without consuming an excessive amount of articles. And you don’t have to rely on just drinking water or seltzer.

Non-alcoholic beverages provide consumers with an option to not drink without feeling the social pressures of a party or American happy hour. So, when you decide to cut out alcohol for your health, there are plenty of options to choose from to help you cut alcohol drinking from your routine. Regular alcohol consumption has been linked to increased risks of Alzheimer’s, cancer, and several other health risks, motivating more consumers to check and minimize alcohol in their daily life.

As you gear up for Dry January (or just decide to spend a month without booze), think about how non-alcoholic drinks can help you achieve your goals and boost your well-being in the meantime. Packed with adaptogens and containing minimum sugar, most non-alcoholic drinks provide a much safer alternative to your typical alcoholic beverages. So, check out what drinks you need to stock up on as you phase alcohol out of your routine.

The Best Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Figlia Non-Alcoholic Apertivo

This gorgeous non-alcoholic aperitif comes in a chic bottle and strikes the perfect balance of sweet, sour, floral, and bitter. Its berry taste is gorgeous on its own and is even better with a splash of seltzer or club soda and a twist of lime. Not only does Figlia taste amazing and is a beautiful addition to any bar cart, founder Lily Geiger tells an incredible product origin story about creating this brand to include those who are trying to drink less, inspired by her father’s battle with alcoholism. The one thing the samplers would improve on is the stopper, which can be difficult to open.

Calories 43

Total Sugars 10g, Added Sugars 0g

Ghia Ginger

The bright, retro packaging on these sip-sized cans is enough to win you over even before the taste. But the flavors will also convince you: Ghia Lime, Ghia Soda, and Ghia Ginger all taste dynamic, well-balanced, and not overly sweet. One sampler noted that the warmth from the gingery notes of the Ghia Ginger felt like sitting fireside by the hearth. More than just the delicious tastes that were strikingly reminiscent of a real well-crafted cocktail, these cans leave you with a bubbly, social feeling while drinking. They’re my pick for the perfect picnic accompaniment and will delight anyone, sober or not.

Calories 50

Total Sugars 8g, Added Sugars 0g

Hiyo Watermelon Lime

Fruity and rich but not saccharine, these beautifully ombré-ed cans blend in well at a bar or gathering, and won’t draw questions of why you’re not opting for alcohol as they look similar to canned wines or spiked seltzers. The slight carbonation and richness of the flavors (Watermelon Lime being a standout) give Hiyo high marks in the taste department, although no samplers experienced any of the purported calming properties but still would reach for the drink again. Note that there is a small amount of sediment at the bottom so the last sip might be better left in the can.

Calories 25

Total Sugars 5g, Added Sugars 4g

Kin Euphorics Spritz

Dressed in gorgeous branding and the promise to be as cool as co-founder and supermodel Bella Hadid, these canned euphorics hold a lot of promise, but the taste fell a little flat, with our samplers deciding it was a bit too bitter for their preferences. That being said, the calming effects of the drink are definitely present, and our samplers decided they would sip it again because of its relaxing properties.

Calories 30

Total Sugars 6g, Added Sugars 3g

Partake Non-Alcoholic Beer

When Partake entered our house, my husband became its biggest fan, drinking it instead of sugary Ginger Ale to rehydrate after golf, or as a pre-dinner mocktail when he was not interested in having a beer. Partake is fresh, not too sweet and with just the right mix of taste and thirst-quenching soda that it replaces your normal cocktail with a sophisticated grown-up tasting beverage you can have over and over and never get tired of. We keep it stocked all year round.

Calories 10

Total Sugars 1g, Added Sugars 0g

Three Spirit Non-Alcoholic Elixir

Aromatic, elevated, and intentional, Three Spirit’s non-alcoholic elixir is appropriately named to signal exactly the right drink for different moods. The Livener is fiery and vibrant with a hint of caffeine to allow you to dance all night, the Social Elixir is bubbly and euphoric, and the Nightcap is a great way to wind down the night. The samplers felt like these names were true to these beverages’ effects, and the mature taste of each drink mixes well with soda water and a twist of citrus and leaves nothing to be desired from an alcoholic drink.

Calories 25

Total Sugars 4g, Added Sugars 4g

The post The Best Non-Alcoholic Beverages to Sip This Season appeared first on The Beet.

Even though water will consistently be your best option to hydrate, choosing coconut water to enjoy an electrolyte-packed drink with an addictive flavor is hard to pass up. Coconut water contains minimal amounts of sugar, and more than often, it is not processed, unlike other popular hydrating beverages.

For when you visit the grocery store’s coconut water section after your next run, we put together a comprehensive guide ranking these coconut waters for taste and health to make your decision as easy as possible.

Sipping coconut water is excellent after a night out, fighting a cold, or just outside on a hot summer day. This simple yet refreshing beverage will easily become a part of your daily routine. And even though coconut water is perfect by itself, you can add coconut water to several recipes to craft cocktails or make smoothies. Try making a coconut water lemonade when warm weather rolls in. There’s nothing better than a drink that’s hydrating, tasty, and highly versatile.

What is Coconut Water?

Coconut water contains several important minerals including manganese, potassium, and calcium. On average, coconut water holds 9.9 milligrams of vitamin C per 100 grams. Most importantly, coconut water is extremely low in sugar content and calories.

Coconut water is also extremely low-fat, and should not be confused with the much fattier coconut milk. This beverage typically contains 94 percent water and minimal fat derived from the coconut. Coconut water has been associated with lowering blood sugar levels and minimizing the risks of diabetes, according to a study. However, more research is needed to confirm the health implications for humans.

In general, drinking coconut water is a hydrating option after a long, exhausting day of any kind. Although more research is needed to understand the extent of coconut water’s benefits on heart disease, diabetes, and other illness, research suggests that coconut water is a smart choice when it comes to hydration.

Here are the best coconut waters to buy, taste-tested for flavor and ranked for health.

The Best Coconut Waters to Buy

365 Whole Foods Coconut Water

Next time you find yourself at Whole Foods, grab a 33.8-ounce coconut water. Not only will it help you stay hydrated and energized for the rest of your day but it’s a relative bargain, compared to other coconut waters. Priced at only $4 for a container, 365 by Whole Foods Coconut Water is three times the size of its competitors for less. Use this coconut water instead of tap water to add electrolytes to your morning smoothie.

Calories 50

Total Sugars 11g, Added Sugars 0g

Bai Antioxidant Cocofusion

Bai’s signature Cocofusion is not 100 percent coconut water, but it deserves a place on this list for shoppers looking for a more exciting beverage. Bai Cocofusion is slightly thicker than other coconut drinks, with one gram of sugar and caffeine. However, those looking for more hydration should stick to other coconut waters. This is a decadent variation, sweetened with stevia and with a little caffeine kick to keep you energized throughout your day.

Calories 10

Total Sugars 1g, Added Sugars 0g

Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water

Harmless Harvest is tough to beat. Our testers loved the ultra-hydrating, perfectly sweetened taste. Packed with natural electrolytes including potassium, this coconut water is the top choice for anyone looking to rehydrate after running or working outside for long hours. With no added sugar, Harmless Harvest still contains 20 grams of natural sugar per bottle, so take that into account.

Calories 90

Total Sugars 20g, Added Sugars 0g

Naked Coconut Water

Naked’s website advises its customers, “After you’re done working your body into shape, treat it to a tropical getaway,” and we have to agree. Naked’s organic coconut water is a great refreshment packed with magnesium and potassium to help replenish the body after exhausting exercise or a stressful work day. Each 16.9-ounce bottle contains the natural juice from 2 ¾ coconuts. Split one of these bottles with your running buddy to cool off. And take note that each serving only contains 6 grams of sugar, which is way better than the top sports drinks!

Calories 40

Total Sugars 6g, Added Sugars 0g

Pure Brazilian Coconut Water

Made from 100 percent raw Brazilian coconuts, this company remains true to its name and provides customers with one of the most sustainable coconut water options available. Pure Brazilian helps replenish one square foot of the Amazon rainforest for every bottle purchased, and after you try this authentic coconut water, you will likely return for more. The brand ensures that all its coconut water is always raw––never heated, concentrated, or compromised in any way. And note, there are no added sugars!

Calories 40

Total Sugars 6g, Added Sugars 0g

Vita Coco Coconut Water

Purchasing a four-pack of Vita Coco’s original Pure Organic coconut water for approximately $10 could be the best thing you do this week. This coconut water is packed with electrolytes and vital nutrients including vitamin C and potassium. This beverage has even more potassium than a banana! Most importantly, Vita Coco provides thirsty customers with an authentically refreshing taste of the tropics. Compared to sports drinks, this is a healthy low sugar, and low-calorie option for everyone to enjoy.

Calories 60

Total Sugars 13g, Added Sugars 1g

Zico Coconut Water Drink

Sold in a bottle more reminiscent of your favorite performance beverages, Zico’s coconut water is pure juice that does not come from a concentrate. This refreshing drink is packed with five natural electrolytes and delivers a light, sweet flavor that is nearly identical to the freshest coconut water. And to top it all off, this hydrating drink contains no added sugars and 15 percent of your daily value of potassium.

Calories 45

Total Sugars 9g, Added Sugars 0g

The post The Best Coconut Waters to Keep Yourself Hydrated, Naturally appeared first on The Beet.

These days you can even find delicious, egg-free nog in your refrigerator case at the supermarket, and some of the milk carton versions actually do a pretty good job of mimicking that iconic creamy, nutmeg-y taste of everyone’s favorite festive winter drink. If you’re living the dairy-free life, you might even think of having fun making your own batch for friends (you don’t even have to tell them it’s vegan –– that’s between you and Santa). Here are our favorite store-bought dairy-free eggnogs to help celebrate the holidays.

The Best Vegan and Dairy-Free Eggnog Brands

Almond Breeze Almondmilk Nog

Almond Breeze is a classic-tasting eggnog that everyone will love for the holidays. Almond Breeze milk alternatives have never failed us and the brand’s eggnog lives up to all expectations we have of the taste and texture, despite the fact that it’s dairy-free. It’s one of the most allergen-friendly options. since it’s not only dairy-free but also soy-free, lactose-free, peanut-free, casein-free, egg-free, and gluten-free.

We loved this one served up plain, but we also think Almond Breeze is a tasty option for your spiked eggnog. Almond Breeze’s nog will fool your non-vegan guests into thinking they’re drinking the real deal. Serve it up and then show them the carton after!

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 1g

Trader Joe’s Almond Nog

Trader Joe’s almond-based eggnog was an office favorite and you should run, don’t walk, to get your hands on a container. If you don’t like overly sweetened eggnog and you are happy with a thinner consistency, this one is the nog for you. A true eggnog lover will search for the spicy and sweet flavors found in traditional eggnogs, but healthier is always our goal so we were thrilled with TJ’s formula. The thinner pour makes this the perfect choice for a nog latte.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 65mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: <1g

Califia Farms Holiday Nog

The office was divided on Califia’s Holiday Nog: Some of our coworkers found the spices and taste to resemble the exact taste of the traditional nog they grew up with, whereas others thought it tasted too sweet, like liquid candy. This nog is for anyone who loves notes of nutmeg and ginger. Califia’s is also the creamiest option of the bunch, and makes you feel like you’re indulging in a sweet treat – but with only 1.5 grams of fat and no saturated fat, it’s the kind of plant-based treat that isn’t too terrible for you. So enjoy!

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 1g

Good Karma Dairy-Free Holiday Nog

Good Karma’s Flaxmilk Holiday Nog is perfect for anyone who is nut-free or who doesn’t like the taste and consistency of almond milk. This nog is the most allergen-friendly since it is free of the top eight allergens including, gluten, dairy, and nuts. The holiday nog is made with flaxseed oil and most closely resembles the texture of traditional nog.

If you enjoy a creamer on the sweeter side, then you will love Good Karma’s nog. Want to fancy up your morning joe? This “veg-nog” blends perfectly with a cup of strong coffee, creating a sweetened holiday-infused morning beverage.  We appreciate the relatively low carbs (8g per serving), so this is your best bet if you’re watching your waist and still want to feel like you’re celebrating the holidays in style.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 8g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 0g

So Delicious Coconutmilk Holiday Nog

So Delicious is one of those companies that named itself perfectly. Sip their almond milk eggnog and you want to say the words! The consistency of their nog mimics conventional ones perfectly, with a rich taste and the same creamy thickness as real nog.  The coconut flavor adds a nice taste for a holiday bevy, but treat this nog as an indulgence since it has 2 grams of saturated fat and 15 grams of carbs. So what? It’s the holidays! Add this sweet dairy-free nog to your grocery list.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 115mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 0g

Elmhurst 1925 Oat Nog

What can we say? We love Elmhurst, which switched from being a dairy company to a plant-based company back in 2017 (way ahead of its time) and changed the name to Elmhurst 1925. Now it’s the fastest-growing plant-based beverage company on the market! You can tell your guests that as you serve them this amazingly homemade-tasting eggnog, which is made with oat milk, and just the right amount of sweetness and spice.

Elmhurst 1925’s Oat Nog formula is that holy grail of eggnogs: the perfect combination of flavor and sweetness without being too thick or too sweet. It’s as good as real without being over the top. Made with only six ingredients, Elmhurst 1925’s Oat Nog makes the perfect holiday coffee creamer or mixer for your holiday gathering. Do leave the carton in view, since it will be a conversation starter among your guests.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 2g

How to make the best vegan eggnog

Not a fan of store-bought vegan eggnogs? (If you taste our favorites you might change your mind.) But if you prefer to make your holiday treats and beverages from scratch, this recipe will become a family favorite for years to come.

Vegan Eggnog

Prep Time: 1
Cook Time: 15
Total Time: 16 minutes (make it 1 to 2 hours ahead to allow it to cool)
Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

• 2 cups oat milk
• 2 tbsp sweetened condensed coconut milk (or more oat milk)
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar or 2-4 tbsp of maple syrup (for desired sweetness)
• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Please read through the entire instructions before beginning.
• Prep: Measure out all ingredients.
• Whisk: In a large pot on the stove, whisk together all of the ingredients until combined. Vigorously whisk until there are no more clumps of arrowroot starch.
• Heat: Then turn the stovetop up to medium-high, and heat the vegan eggnog until right before it boils. You should see a few small bubbles appear. Reduce heat to low, and whisk until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
• Cool: Remove the eggnog from the heat and allow the eggnog to cool for 5 minutes. Then carefully pour the eggnog into an airtight glass and store. Allow the mixture to cool until it’s not warm. Then place eggnog safely in the fridge to chill for 1-2 hours.
• Enjoy: Serve with or without alcohol and enjoy!

For more great product reviews, check out The Beet Meters. 

The post The Best Vegan Eggnog to Buy Plus a Homemade Dairy-Free Recipe appeared first on The Beet.

But which of these healthier-for-you pasta brands taste as good as the real thing? If you are already willing to eat whole wheat pasta, then you know that you can get used to a slightly chewier noodle that has more texture and bite than the plain type. We taste-tested the healthier types of plant-based pasta to give you guidance when you head to the store looking for healthier pasta that won’t spike your blood sugar as sky-high as the traditional pasta you grew up eating.

Pasta Dishes Don’t Have to Be a Guilty Pleasure

So the next time you’re scrolling through TikTok, or Instagram, and find yourself mesmerized by videos of mouthwatering pasta dishes, try out that recipe using a protein-rich pasta made with chickpea flour or lupini beans. Now, pasta dinners can be made with nutrient-rich noodles.

Traditionally, refined pasta lacks dietary fiber to keep blood sugar in check. And while even conventional pasta often contains added nutrients such as B vitamins and iron, eating refined carbs on a regular basis is associated with weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of heart disease, high blood sugar, and insulin resistance. 

Free yourself from tradition and try pasta made with new-fangled formulas like beans or even ripe bananas! These latest healthy pasta brands have used a variety of ingredients ranging from edamame to yellow peas to create protein-packed and fiber-filled noodles that actually taste delicious.

We taste-tested the latest batch of healthier pasta and ranked them for taste and health so you can know which ones to buy. Face it, once you add your favorite sauce and some dairy-free parmesan, you will be convinced these healthier pastas are as delicious and satisfying as the kind you’ve always eaten, even if your grandma made fresh pasta all your life. Enjoy!

What’s the Best Pasta? The Ones That Are Nutrient-Rich

Next time you crave a comforting Italian pasta dinner, consider choosing a nutrient-rich pasta option instead of the typical refined pasta products. Choose your favorite innovative pasta or try them all with new recipes. Every pasta is an excellent choice for at least one noodle dish, so think about switching out your run-of-the-mill pasta brands.

365 Whole Foods Whole Wheat Spaghetti

Most whole wheat pasta brings a bold, often unwanted flavor to dinner, however, Whole Foods’ store-brand pasta delivers a healthier option with a mild flavor. This plant-based spaghetti is an excellent option for any Italian pasta recipe, taking on the flavor of the sauce rather than bringing a typical earthy flavor. This pasta also contains 6 grams of fiber per serving, offering hungry shoppers a gut-healthy option.

Calories 200

Total Fat 1g, Saturated Fat 0g

Dietary Fiber 6g, Protein 6g

Banza Penne

Banza’s chickpea-based penne is a protein-packed option that’s difficult to beat. If you are looking for regular pasta, this healthy alternative might not be your favorite because it definitely tastes like its star ingredient. But, Banza creates a nutrient-rich pasta that replicates the texture and fits well with several tomato-based sauces. However, some pasta lovers might avoid Banza due to the xantham gum, which is potentially connected to some digestive issues.

Calories 340

Total Fat 5g, Saturated Fat 1g

Dietary Fiber 8g, Protein 20g

Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti

You will likely recognize these boxes on the shelves, but instead of picking out the usual refined pasta, increase your fiber consumption with Barilla’s whole grain option. Despite its earthy flavor, this pasta is a reliably tasty option when cooked in salt water and prepared with a flavorful tomato sauce. We would suggest a stronger puttanesca sauce to cover up the earthy flavor, but these noodles cooked al dente are the perfect texture for your pasta night.

Calories 180

Total Fat 1.5g, Saturated Fat 0g

Dietary Fiber 7g, Protein 8g

Brami Lupini Bean Pasta

Brami is a game changer for anyone who loves to eat pasta but doesn’t want to blow their entire carb count on one meal. It’s made of just two ingredients, semolina wheat and lupini beans (so it is not gluten-free), and contains 60% more protein, and 3 times more fiber than regular pasta. The taste is like slightly less cooked pasta so if you like a little more bite to your penne, this is definitely the choice for all your favorite pasta dishes. I would recommend it for baked pasta like mac and cheese because it won’t get soft or soggy like regular pasta. And with 21 grams of complete protein (even more than chickpea pasta), you can have seconds, guilt-free!

Calories 350

Total Fat 4g, Saturated Fat 1g

Dietary Fiber 11g, Protein 21g

Lupii Lupini Bean Pasta

When you choose lupini bean pasta you are going with a keto-friendly protein-rich pasta with low net carbs that tastes something like whole wheat pasta, since it is slightly more al dente and denser than the usual kind. Once you get used to the density, you appreciate that this pasta has 14 grams of complete protein and 40 percent of your daily fiber needs. It’s grain-free (so gluten-free) containing zero wheat, corn, or soy. Made with just three ingredients, Lupii is just lupini flour, chickpea flour, and tapioca (for binding). No plastic is used in the packaging so you can feel great about choosing Lupii as your go-to pasta on a regular basis.

Calories 290

Total Fat 5g,  Saturated Fat 0.5g

Dietary Fiber 12g, Protein 14g

The Only Bean Edamame Spaghetti

There is no beating The Only Bean when it comes to protein. This gluten-free, vegan pasta made from edamame beans contains 44 grams of protein per serving. And if that’s not amazing enough, the pasta is packed with 19 grams of fiber per serving and features a low-carb recipe. Undeniably one of the healthiest kinds of pasta available. The consistency is right on the mark and even though you cannot escape the “beany” taste of the edamame, it is a good and enjoyable addition to your pasta rotation.

Calories 330

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 1g

Dietary Fiber 19g, Protein 44g

Tolerant Organic Chickpea Penne

Tolerant’s chickpea pasta features one single ingredient. Yes, you read that right. This purely chickpea-based noodle contains 11 grams of fiber and 20 grams of protein per serving with no worries about preservatives, additives, or other unwanted ingredients. And this pasta is delicious. Use this penne in a cherry tomato sauce to soak up all the flavor. Some diners dislike the taste of chickpea pasta, but when prepared in tomato sauce, the strong pea flavor is almost completely masked, especially if you remember to salt your water!

Calories 370

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 1g

Dietary Fiber 11g, Protein 20g

ZENB Pasta Rotini

Unlike any other pasta on the market, ZENB highlights the protein-packed yellow pea in its pasta selection. The rotini pasta is an excellent, nutrient-rich replacement to your typical pasta brand, containing 17 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber. This boldly flavored, bright yellow pasta is excellent for a traditional Italian pasta dish or the star of a veggie-packed pasta salad. However, be careful of overcooking this pasta. Cook al dente or it will get mushy!

Calories 300

Total Fat 2g, Saturated Fat 0g

Dietary Fiber 11g, Protein 17g

The post Taste-Test: The Best Nutrient-Rich, High-Protein Pasta You Can Buy appeared first on The Beet.

We tested five vegan turkey alternative roasts:

• Field Roast Sage & Garlic Celebration Roast
• Field Roast Hazelnut & Cranberry Roast
• Trader Joe’s Breaded Turkey-less Stuffed Roast
• Tofurky Plant-Based Roast & Wild Rice Stuffing
• Gardein Plant-Based Turk’y Roast

Each has its own unique flavor and texture, but if cooked with care and attention, you’re sure to have a crowd-pleaser with any of these five. One caveat: Do buy yours today, since the supply chain is unreliable to many stores, and these can keep frozen for weeks if not longer.

No matter which turkey alternative you go with, raise your glass to the fact that you are making a choice that’s better for you and the planet.

The Best Vegan Turkey Alternatives for Thanksgiving

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Field Roast Sage & Garlic Celebration Roast

Field Roast Sage & Garlic Celebration Roast just might just be the brand’s most tasty Turkey alternative yet. The sage and garlic flavors permeate throughout the entire roast for a nice balance of flavors in every bite. For an impressive focal point for your Thanksgiving meal, or even as a side dish on a table full of options, this roast hits all the right tasting notes.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat:1.5g
• Sodium: 510mg
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 22g

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Field Roast Hazelnut & Cranberry Roast

Field Roast Hazelnut & Cranberry Roast has that classic hint of cranberry holiday flavor thanks to the cranberries. It’s crafted with rich hazelnuts, candied ginger, and rosemary, which all meld together for flavor in each bite. It’s seasoned to perfection and wrapped in a delectable flakey puff pastry.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 340
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbs: 26g
• Fiber:4g
• Protein: 22g

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Trader Joe’s Breaded Turkey-less Stuffed Roast

The core of the roast is a wild-rice stuffing that includes bits of cranberries, making it a traditional choice. The “meat” is a soy-based protein mixed with organic ancient-grain flour, so it you get an even ratio of protein to stuffing in every bite.

The outside is coated with a crisp breading seasoned with herbs. This roast cooks fast since no prep or thawing is needed. If you’re grabbing a last-minute vegan turkey, this is a great option. On day two, when we brought leftovers to The Beet offices, the editors who had not tasted it initially actually liked it the best, so keep the leftovers since it ages well.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 300
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbs: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 26g

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Tofurky Plant-Based Roast & Wild Rice Stuffing

Tofurky is the original vegan turkey brand, and no matter how many newcomers show up, it’s still one of the best on the market. We love the classic Tofurky plant-based roast taste and the stuffing may just be our favorite of all. Tofurky has a generous amount of “meat,” and you’ll find the classic stuffing on the interior. If you like a higher meat-to-stuffing ratio, this would be a good choice.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 300
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Carbs:19g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 33g

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Gardein Plant-Based Turk’y Roast

Gardien’s breaded crispy outer coat might be the thing that makes this roast the winner. But overall we loved the “meat” of the roast as well as the stuffing, which balanced well and was distinctly different from the “white meat” taste of the faux turkey.

With cranberry wild-rice stuffing that’s a perfect mix of sweet and savory, this is a focal point of the meal that you’ll be happy to put on the table and even the non-vegans at the table will want to sample this dish. You can cook it straight from being frozen (no need to defrost overnight, unlike some of the other roasts). It has a nice tender texture and a good ratio of rice-stuffing to “meat.” We couldn’t help ourselves and found ourselves going back for seconds – and thirds. In fact, we would eat it year-round, not just at traditional turkey dinner time of year.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 260
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 770mg
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 19g

At a glance

Where to Buy a Vegan Turkey

When you’re looking to purchase your vegan roast, specialty stores like Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s are your best bet. Many grocery stores also carry Gardein and Tofurkey products, so you may be surprised that your local supermarket has these meatless roasts in stock. We recommend securing your roast (and the rest of your ingredients to make your feast) as soon as possible since many stores sell out of these vegan mains quickly.

Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes

If you’re searching for more holiday inspiration, we put together a vegan Thanksgiving guide with over 50 delicious, crowd-pleasing, allergen-friendly recipes.

The post The Best Vegan Thanksgiving Roasts: Your Ultimate Taste Test appeared first on The Beet.

Enjoying a chocolate bar is a decadent treat that’s hard to give up, even when adopting a dairy-free diet. But chocoholics can let out a sigh of relief because most chocolate is vegan unless manufacturers add cow’s milk or another dairy to their recipes. So, there are tons of plant-based chocolate options on the shelves.

For the most part, dark chocolate is vegan, but it’s important to double-check the labels because sometimes companies will add milk fat, cream, lactose, or whey to the “dark” chocolate. Even though some brands add animal-based ingredients to dark chocolate, it is always a reliable space to start looking for when you need something sweet to eat.

Producing cow’s milk is significantly more taxing to the environment when compared to plant-based counterparts. About 87.5 percent of Gen Z shoppers are worried about the environment. More than likely, younger generations will continue looking for sustainable chocolate over longstanding brands that contain milk products.

Ditching Dairy is Good for Your Health

Milk is falling out of fashion fast. Nearly half of Gen-Z consumers actively feel ashamed when ordering dairy milk in public, motivated by not only environmental concerns but also health risks associated with dairy. By eating and drinking more cow’s milk, you are increasing your risk of disease, strokes, and heart attacks.

Regardless of the milk content, vegan chocolate is still a sugary, indulgent snack. So, plant-based chocolate is not necessarily an excuse to eat more chocolate, but without dairy products, it provides a slightly healthier option to cow milk-based options.

The Best Vegan Chocolate Bars

Ordering vegan chocolate can be tricky at first, especially when you have long established your favorite brands. But there’s plenty of chocolate for everyone, ranging from new brands specializing in oat milk-based chocolate or reformed recipes from iconic companies such as Lindt.

Here’s our guide to the best vegan and dairy-free chocolate available.

Awake Chocolate: Dark Chocolate Bites

Awake Chocolate is a delectable grab-and-go snack, especially when you need a little boost of energy. These little vegan chocolates contain enough caffeine to get you through the rest of the workday with a clear mind without drinking another cup of coffee. Every chocolate is the equivalent of half a cup of coffee! This chocolate snack is effective and delicious, without a bitter aftertaste.

Serving Size: 1

Calories 70

Total Fat 5g, Saturated Fat 3g

Total Sugars 6g

Dr. Bronner’s  The Magic All-One Chocolate

Dr. Bronner’s All-One Peppermint soap is one of my favorite summertime rituals (used in the outdoor shower to get off the sea salt from a day at the beach). So of course it makes sense that their line of vegan, organic, fair-trade chocolate should be an instant cult favorite.

I love the blue and silver packaging, the promise of quality since it’s made by Swiss chocolatiers, and the fact that the vegan chocolate bars are sweetened with coconut sugar. Dr. Bronner’s All-One Magi Cool Peppermint Cream Dark Chocolate Bar has an inner layer of soft creamy mint chocolate that infuses the bar with a cool, sweet, refreshing breath of fresh air. You eat it and feel like you’re standing in a dappled forest grove, a babbling brook nearby. It’s transportive!

Crumble it up and add it to plant-based, vanilla ice cream (oat or almond cream dairy-free brands like Oatly or So Delicious) and you have a dessert treat that can’t be beaten! Buy a stack of these and bundle them for perfect stocking stuffers!

Serving Size: 3

Calories: 170

Total Fat 13g, Saturated Fat 7g

Total Sugars 9g, Added Sugar 9g

Gigantic Butter Pecan

Perfectly sized, these candy bars bring all of the nostalgia of your favorite childhood chocolate treats with a much cleaner label. Completely vegan and made with just 7 grams of sugar, these candy bars in four different classic flavors are incredibly delicious. The Banana Pecan is a surprising standout, but if banana isn’t your thing, there are 3 other incredible choices. This may just be the tastiest vegan chocolate bar on the market.

Serving Size: 8

Calories: 210

Total Fat 15g, Saturated Fat 4.5g

Total Sugars 7g, Added Sugar 6g

Hu Simple Dark Chocolate

Hu’s timeless Simple Dark Chocolate bar provides the classic childhood chocolate bar experience we all want. This organic, healthier version of traditional chocolate bars provides you with a guilt-free, diet-friendly chocolate bar. The recipe is also super allergen-friendly. These tasty chocolates are gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and free of soy lecithin. Make sure to moderate how much you consume, because Hu contains 8 grams of saturated fat per serving and one bar contains two servings!

Serving Size: 2

Calories 190

Total Fat 14g, Saturated Fat 8g

Total Sugars 7g, Added Sugar 7g

Lily’s Sweets Vegan Dark Chocolate

Lily’s signature vegan dark chocolate bar offers chocoholics an excellent treatment without any of the usual guilt. This plant-based chocolate bar contains no added sugar and features a recipe that’s sweetened with stevia. Made with 70 percent cacao, this vegan chocolate bar provides an authentically rich option that’s significantly healthier and more sustainable. You can enjoy this chocolate bar after your dinner or use it as the star ingredient in chocolate chunk cookies. And unlike other chocolate bars, this sweet treat comes with the bonus benefit of 3 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber!

Serving Size: 2.5

Calories 130

Total Fat 12g, Saturated Fat 7g

Total Sugars 8g, Added Sugar 0g

Lindt Classic Recipe Oat Milk

Lindt turned the luxury chocolate world upside down with its OatMilk Classic Recipe chocolate bar. This creamy, smooth chocolate bar is good enough to fool Willy Wonka into thinking it’s made with dairy. The bar comes portioned into tiny squares, making it the perfect chocolate snack to spread out over the day. However, it is important to emphasize that this milk-free chocolate bar is a rich indulgence with 10 grams of added sugar and 5 grams of saturated fat per serving. And every 3.5-ounce chocolate bar contains 9 servings!

Serving Size: 3.5

Calories 170

Total Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 5g

Total Sugars 13g, Added Sugar 10g

TCHO Choco Latte

TCHO teamed up with Blue Bottle Coffee to create a plant-based chocolate bar that tastes just like the specialty espresso drink. The plant-based chocolate bar features roasted coffee beans, cashew butter, and cacao butter, providing chocoholics with a creamy chocolate bar that you wouldn’t know wasn’t vegan unless someone told you. With notes of caramel and coffee, this delectable chocolate bar can be enjoyed any time of day or night. However, for the heart-conscious, take note that this bar contains 5 grams of saturated fat per serving!

Serving Size: 3

Calories 130

Total Fat 9g, Saturated Fat 5g

Total Sugars 7g, Added Sugar 7g

TCHO Dark Duo

TCHO’s “distinguished cacao experience” lives up to the hype. This smooth dark chocolate is an indulgently sweet treat with only 6 grams of sugar per serving. The Dark Duo features an intense flavor from cocoa sourced from Ghana without a bitter aftertaste typical of dark chocolates. And next time you want to bake cookies, these plant-based chocolate bars are the perfect ingredient for chocolate chunk cookies. Enjoy this bar in moderation because it contains 7 grams of saturated fat per serving.

Serving Size: 3

Calories 120

Total Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 7g

Total Sugars 6g, Added Sugar. 6g

Tony’s Choconely Classic

Opening one of Tony’s fair trade chocolate bars feels just like a classic Hershey bar. The socially-responsible chocolate brand offers several plant-based chocolate bars with its dark chocolate selection with the exception of its dark milk pretzel toffee flavor. But Tony’s Choconlonely Dark Almond Sea Salt offers an amazing blend of salty and sweet richness rare in plant-based chocolate. This is also a great choice when you’re looking for a low-sugar option!

Serving Size: 6

Calories 160

Total Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 5g

Total Sugars 12g, Added Sugar 12g

Trader Joe’s Oat Chocolate Bars

Smooth and rich, if you’re missing milk chocolate but want to hold the milk, this Trader Joe’s chocolate bar will hit the spot. Dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, and kosher, this bar is a good allergen-friendly choice as a treat for kids. If you’re in search of a no-frill yet decadent and creamy chocolate bar, this one is it.

Serving Size: 3

Calories 140

Total Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 6g

Total Sugars 11g, Added Sugar 8g

The post The 10 Best Dairy-Free Chocolate Bars to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth appeared first on The Beet.

About 51 percent of adults between the ages of 25 and 34 drink kombucha in the United States. But why? Not only is kombucha delicious, but this fermented drink is associated with a wide arrange of health benefits that range from disease prevention to improved gut health.

There is a kombucha for everyone, regardless of taste preferences. Kombucha is often a tart and fizzy drink that can vary between floral, fruity, and herbal flavors. For those who like ginger beer, probiotic soda, or sparkling apple cider, kombucha will become an immediate favorite. You can find refreshing fruit-flavored bottles or grab a ginger-filled immune-boosting recipe.

What is Kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage, with origins in China dating back over 2,000 years. The “tea of immortality” is traditionally brewed with a blend of green or black tea, sugar, remnants of the last batch, and, of course, the SCOBY. But what’s a SCOBY? Short for Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast, this cellulose mat is essential to the fermentation process.

This traditionally home-brewed beverage has developed into an international trend, and now, American shoppers can find bottled Kombuchas at nearly every store in the United States. The global kombucha industry is valued at $2.64 billion, according to Grand View Research.

Kombucha’s purported health benefits include boosting the immune system and improving gut health. This fermented beverage is rich in probiotics and offers the same health benefits as tea. Also, most kombucha is packed with antioxidants that can help fortify your immune system. One study found that regular kombucha consumption reduces liver toxicity by about 70 percent.

Some advocates who urge us to drink kombucha claim that this fermented beverage can help reduce stress, fight cancer, improve liver function, help reduce gout symptoms, and much more. But more research is necessary to uphold these claims.

But which brand makes the best kombucha? Here, we rank the top kombucha brands on the market for taste and health.

The Best Kombucha Brands

Aqua ViTea: Hibiscus Ginger Lime

If you’re seeking a low-sugar kombucha without having to give up on taste, AquaViTea provides not only delicious, inventive flavors like Turmeric Sunrise and Hibiscus Ginger Lime, but also uses organic ingredients and is naturally low sugar. The kombucha is made in small batches in Vermont and you can taste the care that goes into each bright, cheery bottle.

Calories 35

Total Sugars 6g, Includes 4g Added Sugar

Brew Dr.: Love

Another familiar face that crowds grocery shelves is Brew Dr., an organic brand that is quickly rising in popularity. Its flavors range from names of emotions such as ‘Love’ and ‘Clear Mind,’ to more specific offerings such as ‘Island Mango’ and ‘Strawberry Basil’ and taste more delicate and floral than other varieties of kombucha. Raw. unpasteurized, and craft-brewed, Brew Dr. retains the values and care consistent with a smaller company while still remaining widely available.

Calories 60

Total Sugars 12g, Includes 12g Added Sugar

Buchi Kombucha: Ginger

Packaged in adorable snack-sized cans, Buchi Kombucha may just be the perfect on-the-go offering to pop into a lunch box or work briefcase. Started by two mothers on a mission to make better kombucha for their children, you can feel the love and care put into this women-owned brand. With flavors named after nature and the elements (for example, Fire is a punchy brew of Ginger and Cayenne) this brand makes Kombucha the way nature intended––organic, raw, non-GMO, and unpasteurized.

Calories 50

Total Sugars 10g, Includes 10g Added Sugar

Buddha’s Brew: Pineapple Super Greens

Buddha’s Brew is the best option to introduce new kombucha drinkers to the fermented tea beverage. With 14 dynamic flavors, this brand offers a kombucha catered to anyone’s taste preferences. The brand uses organic ingredients and fair trade teas in its brewing process, developing an authentic and healthy beverage that’s perfect in the mornings. With only 11 grams of sugar per bottle, this is a gut-healthy option with less sugar than its lead competitors.

Calories 45

Total Sugars 11g, Includes 11g Added Sugar

GT’s Synergy Raw Kombucha: Trilogy

GT’s signature raw kombuchas feature a completely organic recipe packed with enzymes and probiotics to keep your gut healthy. This kombucha brand is responsible for propelling the fermented tea into the American mainstream. GT’s slogan is “living food for the living body,” containing 9 billion live cultures per bottle for only 50 calories. On average, the bottle contains 12 grams of sugar, and once you’ve tried (and loved) Synergy, I recommend tasting every variety at least once.

Calories 50

Total Sugars 12g, Includes 0g Added Sugar

Health•ade Kombucha: Pink Lady Apple

Health-Ade is a standard, widely-available kombucha that will do the job in a pinch. Although Health-ade’s kombucha is heated after brewing and comes in a stout, hard-to-drink vessel, it still has a nice mild taste. That being said, the brand adds cane sugar to its brew, so it’s not exactly the purest form of kombucha you can find. But there is something to be said for its accessibility –– stop into any corner store or supermarket and you can likely find a vast array of Health-Ade flavors sitting on the shelves.

Calories 70

Total Sugars 16g, Includes 12g Added Sugar

Holy Kombucha: Prickly Pear

Holy Kombucha’s signature beverages only contain about 60 calories without any artificial ingredients or preservatives. This refreshing, gut-friendly drink comes in several addicting flavors, including Prickly Pear. The Prickly Pear is unbelievably refreshing and not too sweet. For anyone looking for a healthy, thirst-quenching drink on a hot day. Holy Kombucha is a safe bet.

Calories 60

Total Sugars 6g, Includes 6g Added Sugar

KeVita Kombucha: Pineapple Ginger

Despite offering the same health benefits as its market competitors, KeVita Kombucha ranks relatively low on the list. This sparkling probiotic drink tastes more like conventional juices than a fermented tea beverage. There is also a vingery aftertaste that’s nearly impossible to ignore. KeVita also contains 16 grams of sugar per bottle, making it one of the sweetest options on the market.

Calories 60

Total Sugars 16g, Includes 15g Added Sugar

Remedy Kombucha: Raspberry Lemonade

Remedy is one of the top kombuchas for beginners. For shoppers interested in the health benefits of kombucha but turned off by the taste of the fermented tea, Remedy is an appealing solution. This nearly soda-like option features a balanced flavor packed with tea polyphenols, antioxidants, and probiotics. This option also works as a great mixer for quick cocktails. And the best part: there’s no sugar!

Calories 5

Total Sugars 0g, Includes 0g Added Sugar

The post Keep Your Gut Healthy! Here Are the Best Kombucha Brands appeared first on The Beet.