The Deliciously Ella Philosophy: From Plant-Based to Vegan
Ella Mills, the founder of Deliciously Ella, began her food journey out of necessity, seeking to manage a chronic illness through diet. Her initial focus was on 'plant-based' eating, which, while prioritizing whole foods derived from plants, did not always exclude animal products entirely. For example, some earlier recipes included honey, which is not considered vegan by strict definition.
Over the years, as the brand and its audience grew, the philosophy solidified into a clearer vegan stance. The Deliciously Ella website explicitly states that its products are produced to vegan standards, though some may carry cross-contamination warnings. The core message, however, remains centered on encouraging people to incorporate 'more plants, for more people, more of the time'. This evolution from a general 'plant-based' approach to a firmly 'vegan' and 'whole-foods' ethos reflects broader changes in the healthy eating landscape.
The Product Line: Strictly Vegan
Unlike its recipe history, the modern Deliciously Ella product line, which includes granolas, energy balls, and snacks, is entirely vegan. The brand is committed to using only plant-based ingredients and avoids preservatives and refined sugars. This provides a convenient and trustworthy option for consumers who need to ensure their packaged foods are suitable for a vegan lifestyle.
- Energy Balls: The popular energy balls are made with simple, natural ingredients, and are 100% plant-based.
- Oat Bars: The range of gluten-free oat bars is also entirely vegan and packed with natural energy.
- Caramel Cups: Decadent caramel cups use plant-based ingredients for a sweet, vegan-friendly treat.
- Granolas: Breakfast cereals like granola are made with plant-based ingredients to start the day right.
Comparing Deliciously Ella's Recipe Evolution
To understand the brand's journey, it's helpful to compare early recipes with modern offerings. The shift demonstrates a move towards more conscious and refined veganism.
| Feature | Early Deliciously Ella Recipes | Modern Deliciously Ella Recipes | Deliciously Ella Packaged Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Philosophy | Broad 'plant-based' approach; whole foods focus | Strict veganism, still centered on whole foods | 100% vegan certified |
| Animal Products | Occasional use of non-vegan items like honey | Absolutely no animal products or by-products | Absolutely no animal products or by-products |
| Ingredients | Emphasis on natural ingredients, but less strict | Exclusive use of plant-based whole foods | Simple, natural, and plant-based ingredients |
| Target Audience | Health-conscious individuals seeking more plants | Vegans, vegetarians, and health-conscious eaters | Anyone seeking convenient, vegan, and natural snacks |
| Convenience | Recipes often required more time and effort | Focus on 'Healthy Made Simple' with quick meals | Ready-to-eat snacks for on-the-go consumption |
Modern Recipes: Fully Vegan and Accessible
In recent years, the recipes featured on the Deliciously Ella app, blog, and in her cookbooks have become consistently vegan. For instance, her latest books, like Healthy Made Simple, provide quick, easy, and explicitly vegan meals that can be prepared in under 30 minutes with fewer than ten ingredients. This adaptation caters to a broader audience that values both health and convenience. Her recent acquisition of the plant-based meal startup Allplants reinforces her dedication to making plant-based food mainstream and accessible.
The brand has also focused on providing recipes that are not only healthy but also delicious and satisfying. This is a direct response to a decade-old criticism that some found early recipes overly restrictive. By focusing on natural, whole-food ingredients like beans, tofu, and legumes, Deliciously Ella is pioneering a new wave of plant-based eating that moves away from ultra-processed meat alternatives. This strategic shift solidifies the brand's position in the vegan community while appealing to a wider audience.
Conclusion
So, are Deliciously Ella recipes vegan? The answer is yes, with a crucial historical caveat. While her brand has always been plant-based, it has evolved over time. Early recipes were predominantly plant-based but sometimes included non-vegan ingredients like honey. However, in recent years, the brand has fully committed to providing 100% vegan content, from its products to its latest cookbooks. The modern Deliciously Ella is a reliable resource for delicious, whole-food vegan recipes and products, emphasizing health, simplicity, and sustainability.
For anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet, Deliciously Ella now offers a trusted, straightforward, and fully vegan option. You can find her latest recipes and products on her official website, a great resource for exploring plant-based living.
