Largest Bagel Chain in US Testing Nationwide Rollout of Vegan Schmear 

Einstein Brothers Bagel Co.—the largest bagel chain in the United States—is testing Daiya Foods’ vegan cream cheese at select locations until February 28 before deciding if it will expand the schmear option nationwide to its more than 700 locations in 40 states. “Our guests have requested dairy-free options and we heard them loud and clear. We’re thrilled to offer dairy-free alternatives, among our other menu offerings,” Einstein CEO Jose Alberto Dueñas said. “We are committed to creating new ways to cater to our guests’ dietary needs and chosen lifestyles.” Last year, musician Adam Russell discovered that one Einstein location offered a vegan schmear option—then made by Kite Hill and available at limited locations. In addition to its new test of vegan cream cheese, Einstein added a vegan Almond Milk Latte (available hot or iced) to its in-store Caribou Coffee locations nationwide.