Current Skittles Ingredients: A Vegetarian-Friendly Recipe
As of recent years, most varieties of classic Skittles have become suitable for vegetarians by undergoing a key ingredient change. The original formula, which contained animal-based gelatin, was phased out in favor of plant-based alternatives. A standard ingredients list for Skittles Original Fruity Candy now typically includes:
- Sugar
- Corn Syrup
- Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil
- Less Than 2% Of: Citric Acid, Tapioca Dextrin, Modified Corn Starch, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Colors (including Red 40 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake, Blue 2 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Blue 1 Lake), Sodium Citrate, and Carnauba Wax.
This shift to a plant-based formula means that classic Skittles no longer use animal byproducts for their chewy texture or vibrant coloring. This change has made them accessible to a wider consumer base, including those following a vegetarian diet.
The Historical Non-Vegetarian Ingredients in Skittles
To understand why some people still question Skittles' vegetarian status, it's helpful to look at their history. The two main culprits that made past versions of the candy non-vegetarian were gelatin and carmine.
Gelatin
Gelatin is a gelling agent often derived from the collagen found in animal bones, hooves, and skin. Historically, gelatin was a primary ingredient in many chewy candies, including Skittles. Its removal was a significant step toward making the product vegetarian-friendly.
Carmine
Carmine (also known as cochineal extract or Natural Red 4) is a red food coloring derived from the crushed bodies of female cochineal insects. This ingredient was used to achieve the vibrant red color in some Skittles products, particularly in the UK, until it was removed around 2015. The decision to switch to artificial colorings meant that the red Skittles were no longer made with an insect-derived dye.
Comparing Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Ingredients
Understanding the specific ingredients that determine a product's vegetarian status is crucial. Here is a comparison of ingredients often found in confectionery products that distinguish them for vegetarian and non-vegetarian consumers.
| Ingredient | Origin | Suitable for Vegetarians? | Used in Current Skittles? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gelatin | Animal collagen (bones, skin, etc.) | No | No |
| Carmine (E120) | Crushed cochineal insects | No | No |
| Shellac (E904) | Secretion from the female lac bug | No | No |
| Carnauba Wax | Leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm | Yes | Yes |
| Modified Corn Starch | Corn | Yes | Yes |
| Palm Kernel Oil | Palm tree kernel | Yes* | Yes |
*Note: While palm oil is not an animal product, some ethical vegans avoid it due to environmental concerns related to its production, which harms animal habitats.
Important Exceptions to Consider: Special Editions and Gummies
While most standard Skittles varieties are now vegetarian, there are important exceptions to be aware of. Special, seasonal, or regional editions may occasionally include animal-derived ingredients. For example, the limited edition 'Once in a Blue Moon' Skittles from 2015 were noted as non-vegan and potentially unsuitable for vegetarians. The most significant exception today is the recent introduction of Skittles gummies, which do contain gelatin and are therefore not vegetarian. Always read the ingredient label, especially for new products or flavors, to ensure they align with your dietary needs.
Conclusion
For vegetarians looking to enjoy a classic sweet treat, the good news is that most mainstream Skittles products are now suitable for their diet, thanks to the removal of gelatin and carmine years ago. However, the crucial takeaway is to be a diligent label reader. The emergence of new products, such as Skittles gummies, means that not all packages are created equal. By checking the ingredients list, particularly for any limited-edition flavors, you can ensure that you are making an informed and confident choice consistent with your vegetarian lifestyle. The colorful candies are generally a safe bet, but a quick scan of the label is a simple step to guarantee you can 'taste the rainbow' worry-free.
For additional guidance on reading food labels for dietary restrictions, the Veganuary website provides a helpful guide on how to identify ingredients to avoid.
