Not All Amy's Products Are Vegan
Amy's Kitchen has built a strong reputation in the organic and natural food market, largely catering to vegetarian diets. However, a common misconception is that all products from Amy's are vegan. This is not the case, as many of their items contain dairy ingredients, such as cheese in their popular burritos and bowls. The key distinction is that while Amy's does not use meat, fish, or eggs in any of its products, it does use milk and other dairy derivatives in many of its offerings, making them vegetarian but not strictly vegan. For shoppers following a plant-based diet, distinguishing between these two categories is essential.
How to Identify Vegan Amy's Products
Identifying which Amy's products are vegan requires careful label reading, as the company provides clear indicators on its packaging and website. Relying on the 'vegetarian' status alone is a common error that can lead to buying items with hidden dairy.
Look for the Explicit Labeling
The most reliable method is to find products explicitly marked with 'Vegan' or 'Dairy-Free' on the packaging. Amy's has made this identification process easier by expanding its plant-based options, including a 'vegan cheeze' alternative for some of its classic meals. For instance, you will find the label 'Vegan Bean & Cheeze Burrito' for the plant-based version, distinguishing it from the regular cheese-containing one. Products also certified as Kosher DE (Dairy Equipment) may be vegan but could have been processed on equipment that also handles dairy. To be sure, look for products that are marked simply 'Kosher D' or 'Kosher Pareve' in addition to the vegan claim.
Check the Ingredients List
If you're ever in doubt, a quick scan of the ingredients list is the final step. All allergens, including dairy, are required by law to be highlighted or listed separately on food labels. Be on the lookout for common dairy ingredients and their derivatives, such as:
- Milk
- Cheese
- Whey
- Casein
- Lactose
- Butter
- Cream
Amy's Kitchen does an excellent job of clearly labeling these ingredients, so they are not difficult to find.
Use Amy's Official Website Filter
The company's website is a valuable resource. It allows you to filter its product catalog specifically for vegan options, providing a list of all current plant-based offerings. This is an especially useful tool for planning your grocery shopping trip in advance.
Popular Vegan Amy's Products
Amy's offers a wide array of vegan options for different meals, including soups, burritos, and frozen meals. Some examples include:
Soups:
- Organic Split Pea Soup
- Organic Lentil Vegetable Soup
- Vegan Butternut Squash Bisque
- Chunky Tomato Bisque, Dairy Free, Vegan
Burritos and Wraps:
- Organic Vegan Bean & Cheeze Burrito
- Bean & Rice Burrito, Non-Dairy
- Tofu Scramble Breakfast Wrap, Gluten Free
Frozen Meals and Pizzas:
- Vegan Margherita Pizza
- Vegan Cheeze Pizza Snacks
- Vegan Veggie Loaf & Mashed Potatoes
- Thai Green Curry
Comparison Table: Vegan vs. Vegetarian Amy's Product
To better illustrate the difference, here's a side-by-side comparison of two similar-looking Amy's products.
| Feature | Vegan Burrito (e.g., Bean & Rice, Non-Dairy) | Vegetarian Burrito (e.g., Black Bean & Cheese) |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Status | Yes | No |
| Dairy | No | Yes (Contains Cheese) |
| Eggs | No | No |
| Common Ingredients | Organic beans, rice, non-dairy ingredients | Organic beans, rice, cheese |
| Allergen Info | May contain soy, but no dairy | Contains dairy |
| Key Labeling | Explicitly marked 'Non-Dairy' or 'Vegan' | No specific vegan label |
Conclusion: Navigating the Aisles for Vegan Amy's Products
In summary, while all Amy's products are vegetarian and contain no meat, fish, shellfish, or eggs, they are not all vegan due to the presence of dairy in many items. The company has a substantial and growing list of vegan products—over 120 according to their website—that are clearly labeled as such. To confidently purchase vegan items from Amy's, always prioritize products marked 'Vegan' or 'Dairy-Free' and double-check the ingredients list for any hidden dairy. By following these simple steps, plant-based eaters can easily enjoy the wide variety of delicious and convenient meals Amy's has to offer.
For a full list of certified vegan products, check the official Amy's Kitchen website.
