Easy Vegan Swaps for Veganuary & Beyond

Going vegan doesn’t have to mean turning your weekly shop upside down. Whether you’re trying Veganuary for the first time or just looking to cut back on animal products, starting with small, easy swaps is the simplest way to make plant-based eating work.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best vegan food and drink options available in the UK, with beginner-friendly swaps that fit effortlessly into everyday meals. From refreshing beverages to meat-free alternatives you’ll find in most UK supermarkets, these are realistic changes you can stick with – not just for January, but beyond.

Squeaky Bean

Veganuary swaps don’t have to be complicated, and Squeaky Bean’s new launches prove it. Their Salmon Style Flakes offer a convincing plant-based alternative to smoked salmon, with the same delicate texture and a zesty sweet chilli twist. Ready to eat and easy to use, they work just as well on bagels as they do in salads or pasta.

Comfort food fans should also look out for Squeaky Bean’s naturally fermented vegetable pies. The Braised Veggie Pie combines fermented vegetables with a rich ale gravy, while the Spanish Chorizo Style Pie brings bold flavour with butter beans, courgettes and savoury spice – all wrapped in crisp shortcrust and golden puff pastry.

Check out the range at squeakybean.co.uk.

JAMU

For an easy Veganuary drinks swap, Jamu’s prebiotic sodas are a refreshing upgrade. Made with real fruit and botanical extracts, they’re naturally vegan, low in calories and designed to support gut health, without artificial sweeteners or additives. Our Editor Tasha loves these, praising their clean taste and gentle fizz as a smarter alternative to sugary soft drinks. Crisp, flavourful and effortlessly drinkable, they’re perfect for sipping throughout January and beyond.

Discover the range at wearejamu.co.uk

Toby & Co

For something a little more elevated, Toby & Co’s debut drink, The Green One, brings a refined edge to alcohol-free sipping. This botanical soft drink and multi-functional elixir is designed to hydrate, vitalise and lift, blending English garden botanicals with Alpine and Mediterranean herbs, green tea extract and minerals. Supporting hydration, energy and cognitive clarity, it delivers a complex, grown-up flavour reminiscent of fine teas and Champagne, with a subtle herbal finish – proof that functional drinks can still feel indulgent.

Discover more at tobyandco.uk.

Nirvana Brewery

For anyone easing into Veganuary who still misses a proper tipple, Nirvana Brewery’s alcohol-free brews are worth a shout. As the UK’s only dedicated no/low-alcohol brewery, Nirvana’s range – from crisp pilsners to rich nitro stouts delivers real craft-beer character without the booze, making it a go-to for social occasions or dinner at home.

We loved how these beers stand up on flavour and feel, as they make drinking mindfully feel like an upgrade rather than a compromise. Whether it’s the smooth 0.5% ales or mixed packs perfect for sharing, they’re ideal for Veganuary and beyond.

Shop the range at nirvanabrewery.com

Lazy Day’s

For an easy vegan dessert that still feels special, Lazy Day’s Indulgent Chocolate Cake is a no-brainer. Made with rich layers of chocolate sponge, smooth Belgian chocolate ganache and a glossy chocolate drizzle, it looks and tastes like something homemade, without the effort. Produced in a dedicated gluten-free, milk-free and egg-free bakery, it’s so good even non-vegan guests won’t guess it’s free from. Available online and at Sainsbury’s, it’s the ultimate stress-free sweet treat.

Explore the whole Lazy Day’s range at lazydayfoods.com.

Freja

For a nourishing Veganuary upgrade, Freja Vegan Broth is a smart swap for stock cubes and bouillon. Made from whole-food ingredients, it’s packed with naturally occurring vitamins and antioxidants, delivering comforting flavour without synthetic additives. Versatile enough to elevate soups, stews and sauces, or simply enjoyed by the mug – it’s an easy way to add depth and goodness to everyday cooking.

Discover more at frejafoods.com.

Strong Roots

For freezer staples that don’t feel like a compromise, Strong Roots has Veganuary covered. From Original Sweet Potato Fries – crispy outside, soft and sweet within – to Crispy Crinkle Fries made with just two ingredients, these are quick, wholesome sides that work with almost anything. The brand’s Cauliflower Hash Browns bring a lighter twist to brunch favourites, while the Pumpkin & Spinach Burger delivers a hearty, veg-forward option with a satisfying crunch. All are vegan, gluten-free, low in saturated fat and air-fryer ready – ideal for easy midweek meals.

Check out the whole range at strongroots.com.