What is fake cheese made of?

Fake cheese, also known as vegan cheese or dairy-free cheese, is made from various plant-based ingredients that mimic the taste, texture, and appearance of traditional dairy cheese. Here are some of the common ingredients used in fake cheese:

1. Soy: Soy milk, soy protein, or tofu are often used as a base for fake cheese. Soy proteins can be processed and fermented to create a cheese-like consistency and flavor.

2. Nuts: Nuts such as almonds, cashews, or macadamia nuts can be soaked, blended, and fermented to create a creamy, cheese-like spread.

3. Seeds: Seeds like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or hemp seeds can be used as a base for fake cheese. They are soaked and blended to create a smooth and nutty cheese alternative.

4. Coconut: Coconut milk, coconut cream, or coconut oil can be used to make vegan cheese. Coconut fat provides a rich and creamy texture to the cheese.

5. Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that is commonly used to add a cheesy flavor and umami taste to vegan cheese. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

6. Starches: Starches such as tapioca starch, potato starch, or arrowroot powder are often used as thickening agents to achieve a cheese-like consistency.

7. Herbs, Spices, and Flavorings: Various herbs, spices, and flavorings are used to enhance the taste and aroma of fake cheese. This can include garlic, onion, paprika, nutritional yeast, and other seasonings.

8. Enzymes: Some fake cheese manufacturers use enzymes to coagulate the plant-based milk and create a cheese-like texture. Enzymes such as rennet or microbial coagulants can be used.

9. Probiotics: Some vegan cheese may contain probiotics, which are live beneficial bacteria that can provide health benefits.

10. Coloring: Natural or artificial coloring agents may be added to fake cheese to give it a yellowish color similar to dairy cheese.

It's important to note that the exact ingredients and processes used to make fake cheese can vary between different manufacturers and brands. Each brand may have its own unique recipe and combination of ingredients to create their vegan cheese products.