Plant-Based Whole30 Tofu Brands 2023

If you are new to plant-based eating and unfamiliar with tofu, we’ll give you the basics and provide a list of Plant-Based Whole30 Tofu brands to add to your shopping lists.

Whole30 has recently launched their Plant-Based Whole30 Program and that means that plant-based protein sources, such as minimally processed forms of soy, like tofu, are allowed for consumption of sufficient protein.

We’ve researched and created a comprehensive list below of Plant-Based Whole30 Tofu Brands:

(More detailed information below!)

Wildwood
Nasoya
House Foods
365 by Whole Foods Market
Trader Joe’s
Simple Truth (Kroger)
O Organics (Safeway)
Sol Cuisine

What is Tofu?

Tofu is made from curdling soy milk, similar to how cheese is made. The soy curds are then pressed into blocks of varying firmness; silken through extra firm.

Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein and also contains calcium and Vitamin D. It is naturally gluten-free and also contains isoflavones (anti-oxidant compounds) which may help to lower “bad” LDL cholesterol.

Should I Buy Organic Tofu?

Yes, if you have the option to purchase organic tofu, we recommend doing so. Most soybeans are grown here in the US and a large portion of them are genetically modified (GMO).

Sprouted Tofu vs. Regular Tofu

Sprouted Tofu is made from sprouted soybeans. Sprouted soybeans are made from soaking the soybeans until they grow a small sprout (also commonly known as germination). This process makes the soybeans easier to digest as well as increases the nutritional value as well as decrease the anti-nutrients (compounds that make it harder for the body to absorb nutrients during digestion). Sprouted tofu provides almost 20% more protein and 3 x the amount of calcium as regular.

How do I cook Tofu?

Select the right texture of tofu for your recipe. Silken tofu is excellent for smoothies, dips, and sauces. Firmer textures of tofu are excellent for baking, pan frying and evening grilling. Tofu is normally stored in water and will need to be pressed before cooking, especially if you are baking, grilling or frying it. Remove the tofu from the water and gently press between 2 plates or kitchen towels to remove the excess water.

Plain tofu has a very bland flavor and easily absorbs the flavors it is seasoned with, marinated in or combined with. Marinating tofu is an excellent way to add flavor.

Our favorite way is to bake tofu. Take a block of firm to extra firm tofu and press out all of the water. Cut into 1 inch cubes and place in an oven proof baking dish. Combine 1 tablespoon light olive oil, 2 tablespoons coconut aminos and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Pour the garlic sauce over the tofu and spread to coat. Bake in a 400° oven for 35 to 40 minutes (tossing half way) until cubes are golden and crispy around the edges.

What about Glucono Delta Lactone?

Glucono Delta Lactone (GDL) is an additive found in some brands of tofu, mostly in the silken texture. It is described as “a coagulant derived from non-GMO corn starch”. Since corn is not allowed on Whole30 (regular and plant-based) it is up to your discretion to avoid tofu with GDL or not. Whole30 has not made a formal announcement on whether GDL is allowed or restricted. We have noted the brands and types of tofu with GDL and will update this post as needed.