Are the Natural Confectionery Company vegan across their entire range?
No, The Natural Confectionery Company is not entirely vegan across its entire product range. While the brand is known for avoiding artificial colors and flavors, many of its classic gummy products contain gelatin, an animal-derived ingredient. To cater to the growing demand for plant-based options, the company has introduced a specific line of vegan lollies, which are clearly marked on the packaging. This has led to some confusion among consumers, who may incorrectly assume that all products under The Natural Confectionery Co. banner are suitable for a vegan diet.
Why are some products not vegan?
The primary reason for a product not being vegan is the use of gelatin, a gelling agent derived from animal collagen, in the standard recipe for gummies and chews. Gelatin is what provides the chewy, jelly-like texture that many consumers associate with these kinds of sweets. In addition to gelatin, some products might contain other non-vegan ingredients, such as beeswax, shellac (a glazing agent), or certain food colorings derived from insects.
How to identify vegan-friendly Natural Confectionery Co. products
Identifying the vegan options from The Natural Confectionery Company requires a keen eye for detail on the packaging. Here's a quick guide:
- Look for explicit vegan labeling: The company's designated vegan products, such as the Vegan Fruity Flavoured Jellies, are clearly marked with a "Vegan Friendly" claim on the front of the packet.
- Check the ingredients list: Always read the ingredients list on the back of the packaging. Vegan-friendly versions will list alternative thickeners like acid-modified wheat starch, as opposed to gelatin found in non-vegan varieties.
- Read the allergen warnings: While not a direct indicator, checking the 'Made in a facility that also handles animal products' disclaimer can provide extra context for those concerned about cross-contamination.
Vegan vs. Non-Vegan Natural Confectionery Co. Products
To make it simpler for consumers to navigate the product range, here is a comparison of vegan and non-vegan options. Always check the current packaging as recipes can change.
| Product Name | Vegan Status | Key Non-Vegan Ingredients | Key Vegan-Friendly Ingredients | Labeling | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegan Fruity Flavoured Jellies | Yes | None | Acid Modified Wheat Starch, Vegetable Oil, Carnauba Wax | Clearly states "Vegan Friendly" | Specifically formulated without gelatin. |
| Party Mix | No | Gelatine | N/A | Typically does not have a vegan label | Classic mix containing various jellies with gelatin. |
| Jelly Snakes | No | Gelatine | N/A | Not labeled as vegan | The traditional chewy snakes contain gelatin. |
| Sour Squirms | No | Gelatine | N/A | Not labeled as vegan | Sour gummy worms containing gelatin for texture. |
| Fruit Salad Soft Jellies | No | Gelatine | N/A | Not labeled as vegan | Contains gelatin in the recipe for its soft jelly texture. |
The importance of gelatin in confectionery
Gelatin is a hydrocolloid that has been used in confectionery for decades due to its unique gelling properties. It provides elasticity, firmness, and a melt-in-your-mouth quality to gummy and jelly candies. As consumer habits shift towards plant-based eating, many companies are innovating to find plant-based alternatives that can replicate these characteristics. The Natural Confectionery Co.'s vegan line is a direct response to this trend, utilizing ingredients that can provide a similar texture without using animal derivatives.
Conclusion: How to enjoy Natural Confectionery Co. sweets on a vegan diet
For vegans, the key is to look for the explicitly labeled "Vegan Friendly" products from The Natural Confectionery Company. It is not safe to assume that all products from the brand are plant-based, even though they are free of artificial colors and flavors. The presence of gelatin is the main differentiator, and a quick check of the packaging is the most reliable way to confirm a product's vegan status. The introduction of dedicated vegan options means that plant-based consumers can now enjoy some of their sweet treats from this popular brand. When in doubt, always scrutinize the ingredients list. The landscape of confectionery is evolving, and it's positive to see a major brand like The Natural Confectionery Company adapting to meet a wider range of dietary needs.
For more detailed information on ingredients and labeling, consumers can visit the official website or check product information provided by major retailers.
Final word of caution: Always check for potential cross-contamination warnings, especially if you have severe allergies, as vegan products may be manufactured in facilities that also handle animal products.
FAQ Section
### Are Natural Confectionery Company products vegetarian?
No, many of their products are not vegetarian because they contain gelatin, which is an animal-derived ingredient. Only the specific, clearly labeled "Vegan Friendly" options are suitable for vegetarians as they are gelatin-free.
### Do all Natural Confectionery Company gummies contain gelatin?
No, not all of them do. The classic, non-vegan varieties contain gelatin, but the specific "Vegan Friendly" line is made without it, using plant-based alternatives for texture.
### What is gelatin and why is it not vegan?
Gelatin is a gelling agent derived from animal collagen, which is sourced from the skin, bones, and tendons of animals like pigs and cows. Since it is an animal byproduct, it is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
### How can I be sure a product is vegan-friendly?
Always look for specific vegan certification or labeling on the packaging. Additionally, check the ingredients list for non-vegan components like gelatin (E441), beeswax (E901), shellac (E904), carmine (E120), or milk derivatives.
### Is the Party Mix from The Natural Confectionery Co. vegan?
No, the traditional Party Mix contains gelatin and is not considered vegan. Vegans should specifically seek out the designated "Vegan Fruity Flavoured Jellies" or similar labeled products.
### Has the recipe for Natural Confectionery Co. gummies changed?
While the company has not changed the formula for its original range, it has developed a separate, new formula for its vegan-friendly line, which uses a gelatin-free recipe. The original products still contain gelatin.
### Does the vegan line taste different from the original?
Many consumers have noted that while the vegan line has a great fruity taste, the texture is slightly different from the traditional gelatin-based gummies. The vegan versions are often described as being less chewy or gummy than the originals.
