Kashew Cheese — Vietnam’s Pioneer Vegan Cheese Brand

Introduction

In Vietnam’s evolving food landscape, Kashew Cheese stands out as a pioneer—redefining what cheese can be. Founded by Lê Na in 2015, Kashew has built a reputation as the country’s first plant-based, artisanal cheese brand, bringing together traditional techniques, local ingredients, and a deep commitment to sustainability and health.

This article tells the story of Kashew Cheese, its values, philosophy, and why it has become a favorite among health-conscious, eco-conscious, and culinary-minded consumers.

The Founding Story

Kashew Cheese began as a personal journey. When Lê Na, then a finance student, adopted a vegan lifestyle, she quickly realized the lack of delicious, high-quality vegan products in Vietnam. Her curiosity led her to study traditional cheese-making and experiment with turning Vietnam’s premium cashew nuts into plant-based cheeses.

By 2018, Kashew’s small batches were gaining attention for their quality and flavor. With the support of co-founder Tobias, Kashew evolved into a full brand, opening its first deli and expanding its offerings.

Philosophy and Values

Kashew Cheese is driven by four key principles:

1️⃣ Simplicity: Using minimal ingredients and honoring natural processes.
2️⃣ Sustainability: Local sourcing, biodegradable packaging, and waste reduction.
3️⃣ Craftsmanship:Handcrafted, small-batch production to ensure quality and consistency.
4️⃣ Health and Wellbeing: Prioritizing clean ingredients, fermentation for gut health, and avoiding artificial additives.

The Product Range

Kashew Cheese now offers a diverse collection of plant-based dairy alternatives:

• Aged Cheeses: Including Classic, Garlic & Herbs, Smoked Hickory, Pepper, Chili, Turmeric & Cumin, and Black Ash.
• Fresh Cheeses: Mozzarella and Ricotta.
• Kream Cheeses: Classic, Garlic & Herbs, Pepper, Smoked Hickory.
• Pesto: Green and Red varieties.
• Milk & Yogurt: Including sugar-free yogurt, original milk, chocolate milk, and matcha milk.
• Dry Goods: Kashew butter, caramelized onion chutney, artisan sourdough bread.
• Kombucha: Passion fruit and pineapple-lime flavors.

All products are handmade using organic Vietnamese cashews, natural cultures, and without gums, thickeners, or preservatives.

Sustainability in Practice

Sustainability is at the heart of Kashew’s operations:

• Local sourcing: 100% of nuts and most vegetables come from trusted Vietnamese farmers.
• Eco-packaging: Glass jars, paper bags, biodegradable cassava starch films.
• Waste reduction: Food scraps become sauces, chutneys, croutons, or compost.
• Minimal impact delivery: Orders packaged with eco-friendly materials.

By supporting Kashew, customers contribute to a circular, sustainable local economy.

Customer Experience

Kashew’s delis in Thao Dien and District 7 aren’t just shops—they’re community spaces that invite people to experience plant-based food culture firsthand. Customers can sample products, enjoy meals that showcase vegan cheese, and learn how plant-based living can be delicious and accessible.

Vision for the Future

Kashew aims to become a global leader in artisan vegan cheese, proudly representing Vietnam’s potential in plant-based innovation. Plans include expanding distribution, growing the deli concept, and bringing the philosophy of Kashew to international markets.

Conclusion

Kashew Cheese isn’t just about cheese—it’s about elevating Vietnam’s culinary landscape, creating healthier choices, and caring for people and the planet. As Vietnam’s pioneer vegan cheese brand, Kashew invites you to explore a world of bold flavors, artisan craftsmanship, and sustainable living.

Visit us at kashewcheese.com or at our deli locations in Thao Dien and District 7 to experience the future of cheese.