BioCheese unveils high-protein dairy-free cheese

AUSTRALIA – BioCheese has launched a high-protein, dairy-free Cheddar Shred product to meet consumer demand for foods with functional health benefits.

BioCheese, the vegan cheese brand by Bio Dairy Free, has rolled out what it says is Australia’s first protein-rich cheese alternative.

Its new Cheddar Shred with Protein SKU contains 10g of pea protein per 100g, and is now available in Coles supermarkets and independent grocery stores nationwide.

“Plant-based and dairy-free shouldn’t mean settling for less,” said Vicky Pappas, CEO of My Co, the investment firm that owns Bio Dairy Free.

“We wanted to prove that with our Cheddar Shred with Protein. It’s the first of its kind in Australia, and we’re proud to be leading the way on nutrition as well as taste.”

The new product marks its first foray into high-protein cheese, taking the base recipe of coconut oil, modified starch, and chicory root fibre and adding pea protein to the mix.

“Pea protein gave us the right balance of function and fit for the brand. It holds up well in a shredded, meltable format without compromising the taste and texture BioCheese is known for, and it fits our allergen-friendly positioning across the range.”

The product promises a “rich, savoury Cheddar flavour” and “smooth melt”, and can be added to salads, toasties, tacos, and other everyday dishes.

The launch of the protein-boosted vegan cheese comes amid a boom in demand for the macronutrient in Australia. Research shows that protein is the most important piece of on-pack nutritional information for citizens in the country.

Protein is making gains due to its association with muscle recovery, strength and performance, sustained energy, and weight management. Half a million Australians use weight-loss drugs today – and while most meet daily protein requirements, GLP-1 users are at risk of falling short.

“Protein is a big part of it, but this launch is really about something broader for us: making sure dairy-free doesn’t mean settling for less when it comes to nutrition,” Pappas said.

According to Innova Market Insights, high-protein and high-fibre claims are witnessing a rise in demand from Australian consumers, with plant-based foods in particular seeing more functional health claims built around ingredients like protein.

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