Are Dare Real Fruit Gummies Vegan?
Yes, Dare Real Fruit Gummies are vegan. The company, Dare Foods, explicitly labels and markets its Real Fruit gummy products as plant-based and certified vegan. This means they are made without any animal-derived ingredients, including the most common culprit in gummy candies: gelatin.
The Ingredient Change That Made a Difference
Historically, most gummy candies were made with gelatin, a protein derived from animal collagen, typically from the bones and hides of pigs and cows. When Dare reformulated its Real Fruit Gummies, it removed the animal gelatin entirely to appeal to a broader audience, including those who follow vegan, kosher, or halal diets. The new recipe uses alternative plant-based ingredients to achieve its chewy texture.
What are Real Fruit Gummies made with now?
Instead of animal gelatin, Dare Real Fruit Gummies now contain plant-based gelling agents. The ingredient list for a medley bag confirms the use of sugars (from fruit puree and juices), modified potato starch, and carnauba wax, among others.
- Modified Potato Starch: This starch acts as a thickening and gelling agent, providing the chewy consistency of the gummies without any animal products.
- Carnauba Wax: This plant-based wax gives the gummies their glossy finish and prevents them from sticking together, replacing the beeswax often used in traditional confections.
- Fruit Puree and Juices: The primary flavor and color come from real fruit puree and juice concentrates, ensuring a natural taste without artificial colors or flavors.
Vegan vs. Non-Vegan Gummies: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Understanding the key differences between vegan gummies like Dare's and traditional non-vegan versions is important for making an informed choice. The table below highlights the crucial distinctions.
| Feature | Dare Real Fruit Gummies (Vegan) | Traditional Gummy Candies (Non-Vegan) |
|---|---|---|
| Gelling Agent | Modified potato starch, pectin. | Animal-derived gelatin. |
| Exterior Coating | Plant-based carnauba wax. | Sometimes includes beeswax or shellac. |
| Flavoring | Natural fruit flavors. | Can include natural or artificial flavors, not always specified. |
| Coloring | No artificial colours. | May use animal-derived coloring like carmine. |
| Certifications | Often explicitly labeled as "Certified Plant Based" and "Vegan". | Typically has no specific vegan certification due to animal ingredients. |
How to Verify Vegan Status on Any Candy
While Dare has made it easy by clearly labeling their Real Fruit Gummies, not all candy brands are so transparent. Here is a quick guide on how to check if any gummy candy or sweet is vegan.
A Quick Checklist for Shoppers
- Look for Vegan Labels: Many brands will explicitly state "vegan," "plant-based," or "gelatin-free" on the packaging.
- Scan the Ingredients List: Look for common animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin, beeswax, confectioner's glaze (shellac), carmine (E120), or milk and dairy derivatives.
- Check for Common Allergens: Some packaging includes "May contain traces of..." warnings for allergens like milk or eggs. While not a direct indicator of non-vegan status, it's something to be mindful of, especially for stricter vegans concerned with cross-contamination.
- Research the Brand: If you are unsure, a quick search on the brand's official website can confirm if specific products are vegan or if they have recently reformulated. Dare's own website provides product details for its REALFRUIT line.
The Expansion of Plant-Based Confections
The move by Dare Foods to make its Real Fruit Gummies vegan is part of a larger trend in the food industry. As demand for plant-based alternatives grows, many companies are reformulating their classic products to be more inclusive. This is a positive development for consumers seeking delicious, ethically sourced treats. It also demonstrates a shift towards more transparent and conscious food production practices. As a proud Canadian company with over 125 years of history, Dare's commitment to providing quality snacks now extends to the plant-based market. This provides a welcome option for vegan and vegetarian consumers who might have previously had to pass on traditional gummy candies. The result is a tasty, high-quality product that aligns with modern dietary needs.
Conclusion
Dare Real Fruit Gummies are indeed vegan, and the company has been transparent about its certified plant-based status. By removing animal gelatin and using plant-based alternatives like modified potato starch, Dare provides a delicious, ethically sound gummy candy option. For consumers wondering, "are Dare real fruit gummies vegan?" the clear answer is yes, making them a fantastic choice for anyone following a plant-based diet without compromising on taste or texture.
