Flora Food Group has announced that 15 products from its Violife dairy-free range have achieved FODMAP Friendly certification, expanding the options available to US consumers following a low-FODMAP diet.
The certification covers a selection of the brand’s plant-based cheese alternatives and other dairy-free products, including cream cheese, shredded and sliced cheese alternatives, blocks and cooking creams.
FODMAPs are certain types of carbohydrates that can be difficult for some people to digest. A low-FODMAP diet is commonly used to help manage symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including bloating and digestive discomfort.
The certification is awarded by FODMAP Friendly, an independent organisation that evaluates products against established low-FODMAP thresholds.
Expanding dietary choice
Violife’s certified range includes familiar products such as Cheddar and Mozzarella-style shreds, cream cheese alternatives, smoked Gouda-style slices and Parmesan alternatives.
The certification process involves independent analytical testing by laboratories accredited by Australia’s National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA). Certification applies to the specific products and serving sizes evaluated.
“Many people are surprised to learn that carefully adjusting the types of carbohydrates in their diet can help relieve common symptoms of digestive discomfort associated with IBS, such as bloating,” said Emily Schöningh, Senior Nutrition Specialist at Flora Food Group.
The company says the certification is intended to make it easier for consumers managing dietary restrictions to identify suitable dairy-free products.
Violife products are available through major US grocery retailers, including Whole Foods, Walmart, Target and Kroger.
The development adds another consideration to the plant-based food category, where manufacturers are increasingly addressing specific dietary requirements alongside traditional preferences for dairy-free alternatives.
For Flora Food Group, the certification provides an opportunity to broaden the appeal of its established Violife portfolio, particularly among consumers seeking clearly identified products for specialised diets.
