A major restaurant chain has launched the UK's first vegan pizza with a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Zizzi restaurant claims it is the first in the UK to provide vegan pizza options that include a mozzarella alternative.
The substitute, called 'mozzarisella', is made from germinated, Italian whole rice is said to be "perfect" for anyone who is dairy intolerant or vegan.
If you've already assumed that the toppings are going to be limited and just a bit 'meh', think again.
Vegan-friendly toppings available on the pizza include:
- Artichokes
- Butternut squash
- Caramelised balsamic onions,
- Roasted garlic cloves,
- Fire roasted peppers
- Field mushrooms
- Black olives
- Green chillies
- Tomatoes
- Roasted red onions
- Spinach
The mozzarella alternative is "completely free from soya, gluten, lactose, food colouring and preservatives".
"Mozzarisella is a light alternative that ensures customers with special dietary requirements can still enjoy our signature flavours," reads Zizzi's website.
The chain have also upped their game in the pudding stakes by launching a vegan-friendly coconut and mango swirl gelato.
A spokesperson for Veganuary, which encourages people to become vegan throughout the month of January, said: "It’s fantastic to see a national chain like Zizzi putting such thought behind their vegan menu.
"The tides are changing and big brands are starting to take note. 83% of our 2016 participants have chosen to maintain the changes they made during Veganuary, but dining out continues to be an obstacle for many.
"Zizzi’s new menu announcement could not have come at a better time… They’re guaranteed a very loyal customer base from now on."
