Kraft Heinz Launches Philadelphia Plant-Based Cream Cheese in US

Kraft Heinz announced the launch of a plant-based version of its iconic Philadelphia Cream Cheese. Now available at select retailers in the US Southeast, including Atlanta, Houston and Miami, the company is planning more flavors ahead of a national rollout in Summer 2023.

The new plant-based cheese is made from a base of coconut oil and faba bean protein, and comes in the brand’s original beloved cream cheese flavor.  According to the company, the product is free from dairy, lactose and gluten, with no added flavors or dyes. Robert Scott, President of R&D at Kraft Heinz, said the company spent two years developing the new recipe, and they focused primarily on ensuring the product could spread easily on a warm bagel or waffle, and provide a true dairy-like taste. 

With its new offering, Kraft says it hopes to appeal to the 52% of consumers trying to add more plant-based foods to their diet. 

Cream cheese is not Kraft’s only investment in plant-based dairy – the food giant is currently testing dairy-free cheese slices made in partnership with food tech startup NotCo. Sold under its famous Kraft brand, the slices are being trialed in Giant supermarkets in Cleveland, OH, with a larger rollout expected next year.