Valentine’s Day is all about love—so why should animals suffer for it?

The dairy industry keeps cows in endless cycles of pregnancy and milk production, taking newborn calves away from their mothers shortly after birth. Many never get to graze or feel the sun on their backs.

For us, dairy isn’t much sweeter. It’s been linked to inflammation, digestive discomfort, and even some cancers.

The good news? Dairy-free chocolate is just as rich, smooth, and indulgent. There are plenty of delicious, cruelty-free options waiting for you to try!

Budget-friendly dark chocolates

Did you know dark chocolate is often dairy-free? If you’re looking for options at a reasonable price, check these out at a supermarket near you:

  • Great Value Dark Chocolate (Walmart) – Walmart’s store brand offers dark chocolate bars (70% cacao or more) at affordable prices.
  • Trader Joe’s Pound Plus Dark Chocolate – A large block of dark chocolate, perfect for sharing or baking.
  • Kirkland Signature Organic Dark Chocolate (Costco) – Available in bulk packs; ideal for stocking up.

Creamy milk chocolate alternatives

If you prefer creamier dairy-free chocolates, try these options available at stores like Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods:

  • Hershey’s Oat Milk Chocolate – Classic smoothness made with oat milk.
  • Reese’s Plant-Based Peanut Butter Cups – The original Reese’s flavor, but dairy-free.
  • Cadbury Plant Bar – Made with almond milk for a creamy texture.
  • Lindt Oat Milk & Oat Milk Chocolate Truffles – Chocolates filled with a creamy, oat milk center.
  • Lindt Excellence 70%, 85%, & 90% – Commonly found at Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods. Always check the ingredients to ensure they are dairy-free!

Chocolates with a Latino touch

Looking for a special treat with Latino flavors? Try these imported favorites:

  • Ibarra Chocolate (Walmart, Latin stores, Amazon) – Perfect for making dairy-free hot chocolate.
  • Taza Chocolate Mexicano (Whole Foods, Latin stores, Amazon) – Chocolate discs with flavors like cinnamon, guajillo chili, and almond.
  • Pacari Chocolate (Whole Foods, Sprouts, Amazon) – An Ecuadorian brand featuring pure cacao and dairy-free chocolate.

How to enjoy these chocolates

Besides eating them straight (let’s be honest, who can resist?), you can:

  • Melt them over fruit like strawberries or bananas.
  • Use them in desserts like brownies or chocolate avocado mousse.
  • Grate them over smoothie bowls or pastries.
  • Enjoy them in hot chocolate with oat or almond milk.

A sweet Valentine’s Day can be kind too. Which one will you try first?