The Verdict: Why Strawberry and Cream Squashies Aren't Vegan
Unfortunately for vegans, the beloved Swizzels Strawberry and Cream Squashies are not a plant-based sweet. The primary reason is the inclusion of gelatine in the ingredients list, an animal-derived product. Gelatine is a protein made by boiling the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones of animals, often pigs and cows. This makes them unsuitable for anyone following a strict vegan or vegetarian diet.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients List
When examining the nutritional information for Swizzels Strawberry and Cream Squashies, you will find gelatine explicitly listed as a gelling agent. This confirms their non-vegan status directly from the manufacturer's side. Other ingredients typically include glucose syrup, sugar, modified starch, and flavorings. While other additives like carnauba wax are present, the gelatine is the key defining factor that makes these specific sweets non-vegan.
Exploring Vegan Alternatives to Squashies
Although Strawberry and Cream Squashies are out of the question for those on a vegan diet, the good news is that the confectionery world offers a vast array of delicious plant-based alternatives. From dedicated vegan brands to accidentally vegan finds, you can still enjoy a chewy, fruity treat without compromising your principles.
Here are some popular vegan alternatives:
- Aldi's 'Twinnies': Some sources suggest that Aldi offers a vegan version of the Drumstick-style sweets in flavours like raspberry and milk or sour cherry and apple.
- Vegan-Friendly Swizzels: Certain Swizzels products are vegan. These include many of their chew bar ranges like Refreshers Chews and some Love Hearts, but it is crucial to always double-check the label.
- Specialist Vegan Sweets: Many companies now exclusively produce vegan gummy and chewy sweets, often using plant-based gelling agents like pectin, agar-agar, or carrageenan.
- Accidentally Vegan Sweets: Some surprising candies are accidentally vegan, like certain types of Skittles or Starburst in some regions (though ingredients should always be verified). It's important to remember that Swizzels' Squashies sweets are different from their vegan-friendly squash drinks, which can be a source of confusion.
Comparison of Squashies vs. Vegan Alternatives
| Feature | Strawberry & Cream Squashies (Swizzels) | Vegan Alternative (e.g., Aldi 'Twinnies' or Pectin Gummy) |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Status | Not vegan | Vegan |
| Key Gelling Agent | Gelatine (animal-derived) | Pectin or other plant-based gelling agents |
| Dairy-Free | Yes | Typically, yes (always check for 'cream' flavors) |
| Taste | Chewy, creamy, fruity | Chewy, fruity (can vary depending on brand) |
| Availability | Widely available | Increasingly common in supermarkets and health food stores |
How to Spot Non-Vegan Sweets
For those new to veganism or simply trying to be more aware of their consumption, knowing what to look for on an ingredients list is essential. In addition to gelatine, here are some other common animal-derived ingredients to watch out for in confectionery:
- Carmine: A red dye made from crushed cochineal beetles.
- Beeswax: Derived from honeycombs.
- Shellac: A resin secreted by the female lac bug.
- Dairy Products: Ingredients like milk powder, whey, or casein are obvious non-vegan additions, especially in 'cream' flavored products. Fortunately, Swizzels Strawberry & Cream Squashies are dairy-free, but they are still not vegan.
To make things easier, many manufacturers now explicitly label their products as vegan, often with a clear symbol. When in doubt, a quick search or a look at a reputable vegan resource site can provide the clarity you need.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
In summary, the Strawberry and Cream Squashies from Swizzels are not a suitable sweet for vegans due to the presence of animal-derived gelatine. While this may be disappointing news for some, the increasing demand for plant-based foods has led to a fantastic range of vegan alternatives. By checking labels for gelatine and other animal products, you can make informed choices and find delicious, cruelty-free sweets to enjoy. Whether you opt for a vegan-friendly Swizzels product, a dedicated vegan brand, or an accidentally vegan find, you can still indulge in your favourite fruity, chewy treats. For more information on food additives and animal-derived ingredients, you can consult a trusted resource like The Vegan Society Guide to Food Additives.
