After years of speculation and excitement, Vegan Nutella is finally here! Ferrero, the beloved Italian company behind the iconic hazelnut spread, announced earlier this year that it would launch a plant-based version of Nutella, and as of September 2024, it’s now available on supermarket shelves in select European countries.
This news marks a significant step for Ferrero, as the company continues to adapt to the growing demand for plant-based alternatives. The vegan version of Nutella maintains the same indulgent experience fans know and love, now crafted without dairy but still featuring its signature blend of hazelnuts, cocoa, and sugar.
Rumors about a dairy-free Nutella have been circulating for years, and anticipation reached a peak when Ferrero trademarked the name “Nutella Plant-Based” in several countries last December. The company officially confirmed the launch in May, with a spokesperson saying,
At Ferrero, we are always scouting and exploring new categories and emerging food trends. By leveraging the innovative spirit and decades of expertise of our beloved global brands, we are now preparing to launch Nutella Plant-Based… this addition will deliver the same unmistakable experience, replacing milk with vegetal ingredients.”
Where to Find Nutella Plant-Based
The first jars of Nutella Plant-Based hit supermarket shelves in Italy, France, and Belgium on September 4, 2024. In Germany, it’s expected to be available in Jan 2025 in major supermarkets like Edeka, Rewe, and Kaufland, according to local reports. The product will also carry vegan certification, ensuring that it aligns with ethical standards beyond simply being free of animal ingredients.
This launch comes as part of Ferrero’s broader efforts to offer plant-based alternatives, catering to the growing demand for vegan products across Europe. Surveys show that 28 percent of Europeans consume at least one plant-based product per week, and Germany leads the charge with 10 percent of its population identifying as vegan or vegetarian.
Vegan Nutella Ingredients
So, what makes Vegan Nutella different from the original? According to early reports, the vegan version will taste remarkably similar to the classic, with a creamy, nutty profile familiar to fans. Instead of dairy, the new recipe will use a blend of chickpea-based milk powder and rice syrup as a substitute, providing a smooth texture without compromising flavor.
The spread will still include palm oil, a staple in Nutella’s formula, though this has been a point of controversy among some environmental and ethical circles. Nonetheless, the brand has opted to maintain this ingredient while exploring other ways to make the product accessible and sustainable for the plant-based community.
Will Vegan Nutella Expand to Other Markets?
As the world continues to shift towards plant-based eating, Ferrero’s decision to launch Vegan Nutella is a major milestone. With its launch in key European countries and the potential to expand globally, this new offering stands to attract an even wider audience of Nutella lovers who seek a more ethical and environmentally conscious choice.
The original Nutella has been a staple for over six decades, and now, with a vegan counterpart, the brand is poised to continue its legacy in an ever-evolving food landscape. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Nutella, this plant-based version promises the same indulgent experience—without the dairy.
For now, Nutella Plant-Based is available in Italy, France, and Belgium, with Germany soon to follow. Stay tuned for further announcements as Ferrero continues to spread the love of Nutella to plant-based eaters everywhere.