Spotlight: Daiya Foods

Meet Daiya Foods Inc… purveyor of dairy-free cheesy comfort food, and the #SeeingGreen Solutionist of the Day for June 11.

Daiya Foods is a pioneering plant-based food company known for its wide range of dairy-free products that make it easier for consumers to enjoy familiar comfort foods without animal ingredients. Based in Canada, Daiya has been on a mission since 2007 to create "delicious moments that everyone can feel good about—plant-devotees, the plant-curious and cheese aficionados alike."

The brand first gained popularity with its dairy-free cheeses in shreds, slices, blocks and sticks, and has since expanded to include cream cheese-style spreads, frozen pizzas, flatbreads, mac and cheese, salad dressings and even “cheezecakes.” Their products are available at major retailers and regional grocers across North America as well as online at Walmart, Kroger, Target and Instacart.

At the heart of Daiya’s sustainability story is its commitment to a plant-based food system. By replacing traditional dairy with ingredients derived from plants, Daiya’s products have a significantly lower environmental footprint in greenhouse gas emissions, land use and water consumption. In addition to promoting animal-free ingredients, the brand also supports allergen awareness and clean-label formulations.

Daiya Foods also is dedicated to responsible manufacturing and packaging. The company has committed to having 100% reusable or compostable packaging for all of its products by 2030. Already, Daiya has successfully reduced plastic waste by 81% in its new slice packaging, and has worked on an overall reduction on all other packaging materials, including flexible films, bags and paperboard cartons.

As one of the early movers in the plant-based dairy alternative space, Daiya has played a leading role in expanding access to more sustainable, ethical, and inclusive food options for consumers seeking alternatives that align with their health values and/or climate concerns. These access efforts include the company’s Daiya Dairy-Free tour visiting 15+ U.S. cities to offer consumers free tastes of select products.

And the name? Daiya is a mash up of “Dairy” and “Dāya” -- a Sanskrit word symbolizing mercy, kindness, and compassion.

About the "#SeeingGreen Solutionist of the Day"
This series celebrates and highlights the brands and innovators dedicated to creating a greener, more sustainable world. Each day, the series shines a spotlight on a trailblazer making significant strides in promoting eco-friendly living through innovative products, solutions and practices.