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Here at the University of Oxford, wine and cheese nights are a must amongst all of the colleges and departments. Yet, with the wave of veganism, some students have begun to feel left out, unable to enjoy the creamy cheeses and juicy wines offered by the institution. Yet, the Oxford Vegan Society offered a “Vegan Wine and Cheese Night” to those who missed out on trying varieties of cheese due to dietary and environmental preferences.
Held on the evening of February 21st in the Mansfield College JCR, the room filled with eager students yearning to learn more about this so-called vegan cheese. There were various types of cheeses from different stores, in addition to vegan wines, crackers, fruit, and chutneys. It was not only a delicious evening, but it was an evening to learn about the benefits of being vegan.
Photo from Wine and Cheese Night at Mansfield College (Laure Boissat)
Pamphlets were handed out from organizations such as Viva and the Vegan Society about how being vegan can help not only animals, but also the environment. Students were interested in what they could do to help the cause, and they were interested in what cheeses to try and purchase later on to reduce their ecological footprint.
Selection of Vegan Snacks and Vegan Information Available to Guests (Laure Boissat)
Some may ask what vegan cheese is made with? And most of the time, they are made with fermented nuts or coconut oil. Tesco’s Free From brand offers a range of cheeses from spreadable cream cheese, mature cheddar, to even a spicy jalapeno chili cheddar all made with coconut oil. Similarly, Sainsbury’s, had a selection made with coconut, with selections including Greek-style, blue cheese, cheddar with chives, or caramelized onions, and even Wensleydale-style with cranberries. Violife also offers some smooth cheeses that are also made with oconut oil. If you are looking for something a bit more artisan, Tyne Cheese offers a great selection of nut-based cheeses ranging from Ethiopian Spice and Pink Peppercorn. Lastly, the Naturally Vegan Food Company offers some splendid cheese balls with flavors like chili cheese and smoked cheese. Students were able to try each of these cheeses, but they ran out fast. Perhaps vegan cheese is more popular than normal?
Some of the Vegan Cheese Available to Taste (Laure Boissat)
Not only that, but the wine offered was also vegan. Some people may wonder if other wines are vegan, and it varies depending on how the wine is processed. Fining agents are sometimes put into wines which can include casein (milk protein), albumin (egg whites), and gelatin (animal protein). If you want to begin trying to be more vegan, be wary of these additives when purchasing wine.
The University of Oxford Vegan Society Committee (Laure Boissat)
It truly was a wonderful evening, and the Vegan Society was so happy to have met so many amazing vegans and current vegans in Oxford. We hope to see you at our next event!