Four Vegan Companies in Venezuela Making Alternatives to Favorite Foods
We take a look at four vegan companies in Venezuela making alternatives to dairy, meat, and chocolate while attempting to stay afloat amidst Venezuela’s economic crisis and rampant inflation. Venezuela was among the 11 countries ahead of France in the Veganuary 2022 challenge; according to estimates from the Venezuelan Association of Nutritionists, the vegan population in Venezuela is growing. Okara Dairy-free artisanal cheese specialist Okara began crafting chickpea-based cheese in 2019 when it was founded by Mirla Morales and Jennifer Schneider. Now it uses cashews, almonds, and legumes to make over 30 varieties, ranging from fresh mozzarella–style to camembert to matured cheeses. Okara also makes vegan desserts and is expanding to plant-based chorizo, cooked ham, and tofu filets to offer vegan ingredients for Venezuela’s loved festive dishes, hallacas and pan de jamón (bread filled with ham). Okara …
