Your Guide to Vegan Crusts at Domino's
For those adhering to a vegan diet, navigating the menu at a major pizza chain like Domino's can be tricky. While the chain has introduced more plant-based items in some regions, the crusts often contain hidden animal-derived ingredients. Understanding which crusts are vegan and which are not requires careful examination of ingredients, as formulations can differ by location. For example, some ingredients like whey or honey can make certain crusts unsuitable for vegans.
In the United States, the most reliably vegan crust option is the Crunchy Thin Crust. This crust is made without dairy or eggs and provides a solid foundation for a plant-based pizza. However, it is always recommended to verify the ingredients locally before ordering, as suppliers can sometimes vary. Another option to consider is the Brooklyn Style crust, which is often reported to be dairy and egg-free, but this also requires in-store confirmation.
Crusts to Avoid for Vegans
While some crusts are plant-based, others definitively are not and should be avoided entirely by vegans. Dairy is the most common animal-derived ingredient found in pizza crusts. Many of Domino's popular crusts, particularly those designed to be thicker or softer, contain milk products.
- Hand Tossed Crust: The Hand Tossed crust recipe in the US historically included whey, a dairy derivative. Although some sources suggest it might now be vegan, it is best to confirm directly with the restaurant or opt for a safer alternative.
- Handmade Pan Crust: The thick, buttery-flavored Handmade Pan crust contains dairy ingredients and is not suitable for vegans.
- Gluten-Free Crust: While the name may suggest a simple, restricted ingredient list, the US version of the Gluten-Free crust contains milk and sometimes honey, making it non-vegan. Vegans should avoid this crust.
- Bread Twists and Stuffed Crust: All Domino's bread twists and stuffed crusts in the US are made with doughs that contain milk.
How to Build a Vegan Pizza at Domino's
Creating a satisfying vegan pizza at Domino's involves more than just selecting the right crust. Once you have chosen your Crunchy Thin or confirmed Brooklyn Style crust, you must also be mindful of the sauce and toppings. Here is a step-by-step guide to building your ideal pie:
- Choose your crust: Select the Crunchy Thin Crust. If you are comfortable confirming with your local store, the Brooklyn Style may also be an option.
- Pick a vegan sauce: The Robust Inspired Tomato Sauce is a reliable vegan choice in the US. The Hearty Marinara pizza sauce, however, contains milk and should be avoided. You can also opt for just olive oil and seasonings.
- Add toppings: Domino's offers a wide array of fresh vegetable toppings that are vegan-friendly. Pile on mushrooms, onions, green peppers, tomatoes, black olives, banana peppers, pineapple, or spinach.
- No cheese: As of early 2025, Domino's in the US does not offer a vegan cheese alternative. Be sure to order your pizza without any cheese.
- Be careful with dips and seasonings: The garlic dipping sauce and Phase Oil (butter-flavored oil) are generally considered vegan, but the garlic oil blend often contains parmesan cheese. Always request 'no garlic oil' and confirm the contents of any other dips.
Comparison of Domino's Crusts for Vegans
| Crust Type (US) | Vegan-Friendly? | Potential Vegan Issues | Ingredient Information | Notes for Ordering |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crunchy Thin Crust | Yes | Very low risk, but regional variations possible. | Enriched flour, water, soybean oil, salt, yeast, dough conditioners. | Most reliable vegan option. |
| Brooklyn Style | Usually | Requires in-store confirmation, potential cross-contamination. | Similar to Hand Tossed but check locally. | Confirm with staff before ordering. |
| Hand Tossed | Often not | Some reports indicate dairy (whey); requires local verification. | Contains whey and other potential non-vegan ingredients. | High risk, better to choose thin crust. |
| Handmade Pan | No | Contains dairy ingredients. | Milk ingredients are part of the recipe. | Not an option for vegans. |
| 10” Gluten-Free | No | Contains milk and potentially honey. | Rice flour blend with milk/honey. | Not an option for vegans. |
Potential for Cross-Contamination
While Domino's has vegan-friendly components, it's important for individuals with severe allergies to understand the risk of cross-contamination. Domino's preparation areas are not separated for vegan and non-vegan foods. This means that ingredients like cheese could potentially come into contact with your pizza. For those with less severe concerns, many vegans find the risk acceptable, but for a strict allergy, this should be taken into consideration. When placing an order, politely ask the staff to change gloves and use fresh utensils to minimize risk.
International Domino's Options
It is worth noting that international Domino's locations may have different vegan crusts and menu items. For example, Domino's UK offers dedicated plant-based crusts, plant-based cheese, and a vegan garlic and herb dip. These items are clearly marked and certified vegan, making it much easier to order. Always check the local Domino's website for specific ingredient and allergen information, as what is available in one country may not be in another.
Conclusion
In the US, the Crunchy Thin Crust is the safest bet when asking, "are any Domino's crusts vegan?" While the Brooklyn Style may also work with local confirmation, other crusts like the Handmade Pan, Hand Tossed, and Gluten-Free are not vegan. By choosing the correct crust and a robust tomato sauce, and loading up on vegetable toppings, a customizable vegan pizza is possible. However, be aware of the cross-contamination risks and the lack of vegan cheese in the US. Remember to check local menus and ingredients, especially when traveling abroad, as vegan options differ globally.
