The plant-based and alcohol-free spaces are evolving rapidly with exciting new product launches and expanded menu options. From poppable frozen desserts to mainstream fast-food additions and celebrity-backed drinks, there is plenty of news making waves for conscious consumers.

Daiya Introduces Dairy-Free Cheesecake Bites

Daiya Foods, a pioneer in plant-based dairy alternatives, has officially expanded its dessert lineup with the launch of Dairy-Free Cheesecake Bites. Catering to the growing trend of portion-controlled, convenient frozen treats, these poppable bites are designed to be eaten straight from the freezer without any thawing required.

• The Varieties: The bites are available in three distinct flavors: Original, Chocolate, and Strawberry.
• The Ingredients: The filling features Daiya's signature "Oat Cream" blend (consisting of water, gluten-free oat flour, pea protein, cultures, and enzymes) combined with coconut cream and coconut oil.
• The Coating: Each bite is enveloped in a rich, dark chocolatey shell.
• Nutrition: Packed in a convenient resealable pouch, each serving (about 3 to 4 bites) contains just 100 calories.

Vegan Navigation at Subway

Finding reliable plant-based options on the go remains a priority for vegan consumers, and sandwich giant Subway continues to offer several entirely animal-free building blocks.

• The Bread Base: Vegan-friendly bread options at Subway include the Artisan Italian (White), Hearty Multigrain, and Sourdough. (Note: Diners are advised to skip the wraps and flatbreads as recent ingredient updates include milk).
• The Veggie Patty: Subway’s Veggie Patty was fully reformulated to be entirely plant-based and animal-free. However, availability varies significantly by location, so it is best to check with local stores.
• Sauces & Dressings: Complimenting a veggie-loaded sub are several vegan-approved condiments, including Yellow Mustard, Buffalo Sauce, Oil & Red Wine Vinegar, and Sweet Onion Teriyaki Sauce.

Tom Holland’s BERO Launches Non-Alcoholic Shandy Line

In the beverage world, actor Tom Holland’s non-alcoholic beer brand, BERO, has announced its first-ever seasonal product line: a collection of non-alcoholic Shandies. Holland openly shared that the line was deeply inspired by his fiancée, Zendaya. Because she is teetotal and never developed a taste for traditional beer flavors, Holland and his team crafted these approachable, fruit-forward blends so she would have a premium option to enjoy.

• The Formula: The beverages blend 30% BERO Kingston Golden Pils lager with 70% lemonade, infused with real fruit juices and premium botanicals to keep each can under 100 calories.
• The Four Flavors:

1. Daybreak Shandy (Lemon Lime)
2. Golden Hour Shandy (Grapefruit—Zendaya's personal favorite)
3. Sunset Shandy (Elderflower)
4. Midnight Shandy (Blackberry Yuzu)

• Availability: The limited-edition shandies will be available at Target starting June 14th, with a wider roll-out to Total Wine and Sprouts scheduled for July.

References

• Daiya Foods: Dairy-Free Cheesecake Bites Product Guide
• Trend Hunter: Dairy-Free Cheesecake Bites Innovation Trends
• Veggl & Veganuary: Subway US Vegan Menu & Allergen Guide Updates
• BERO Brand & Ground News: Tom Holland's BERO Shandy Line Announcement
• Rova NZ: Tom Holland Interview via Amy Poehler's 'Good Hang' Podcast