Navigating Domino's menu as a vegan
For vegans, ordering at a mainstream pizza chain often involves careful inspection of ingredients. With varied menus across different regions, what is vegan-friendly at a Domino's in one country may not be in another. The most significant regional difference lies in the availability of vegan cheese, which is a standard offering in many international markets but is still absent in the United States. This guide breaks down the options available to a vegan diner.
Customizing a vegan pizza in the U.S.
In the U.S., building a vegan pizza requires starting from scratch and omitting dairy. The cornerstone of your creation is the crust, followed by a suitable sauce and a generous helping of vegetable toppings. You will need to explicitly ask for 'no cheese,' as a vegan cheese alternative is not currently offered. Some vegans opt to order a cheeseless pizza and add their own dairy-free cheese at home for a complete experience.
U.S. Crusts: What's safe?
Not all crusts at Domino's in the U.S. are vegan. The following options are generally considered safe:
- Crunchy Thin Crust: A reliable choice, as this crust does not contain animal products.
- Hand Tossed Crust: Reportedly vegan-friendly, but ingredients can change. It's best to confirm with your specific location.
- Brooklyn Style: Similar to the Hand Tossed, it is often vegan but should be verified in-store.
U.S. Vegan Sauces
The most important choice for a vegan sauce is to avoid anything with a dairy base, like the Alfredo or Hearty Marinara sauces. Your best bets are:
- Robust Inspired Tomato Sauce: This is the standard pizza sauce and is completely vegan.
- Barbecue Sauce: A tangy alternative to the traditional tomato base.
U.S. Vegan Toppings
The world of vegetable toppings is your playground. You can load up on as many as you like to add flavor and texture. Vegan toppings include:
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Green peppers
- Roasted red peppers
- Black olives
- Pineapple
- Spinach
- Jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
Domino's vegan menus in other regions
For vegans in countries like the UK, Australia, and Germany, the experience is much simpler due to more robust vegan offerings. These markets often feature specific menu items that are certified vegan.
- Vegan Cheese Alternative: Unlike in the U.S., many international Domino's locations offer a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Dedicated Vegan Pizzas: Customers can often order pre-designed vegan pizzas, such as the Vegan Margherita or Vegan Vegi Supreme.
- Vegan Garlic & Herb Dip: A plant-based version of their signature dip is available to accompany the meal.
Navigating allergies and cross-contamination
For those with serious allergies to dairy or eggs, it is crucial to understand Domino's cross-contamination policy. According to their FAQ, the company cannot guarantee that any product is free from allergens, as they use shared preparation areas and equipment. While every effort is made to prevent contamination, the risk remains. If you have a severe allergy, it's safer to avoid eating at Domino's or to choose another dining option. Always inform the store when you place your order so staff can take extra precautions, though no complete guarantee can be made.
Domino's vegan options: US vs. UK comparison
| Feature | US Domino's | UK Domino's |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Cheese | Not available | Available (dedicated vegan alternative) |
| Vegan Crusts | Thin Crust, Hand Tossed (often) | Classic Crust, Italian-Style (dedicated plant-based dough) |
| Vegan Sauces | Robust Inspired Tomato, BBQ | Standard Tomato Sauce, BBQ |
| Dedicated Vegan Pizzas | None (requires customization) | Several options (e.g., Vegan Margherita, Vegi Supreme) |
| Vegan Sides | Limited (e.g., salad without cheese/croutons) | Potato Wedges, Plant-Based Nuggets |
Beyond pizza: vegan sides and extras
While pizza is the main event, Domino's does offer some additional vegan-friendly items, though these also differ by region. In the U.S., some sides can be made vegan with modifications.
- Salad: The Classic Garden Salad can be made vegan by ordering it without cheese and croutons. Be sure to verify that the dressing is dairy-free.
- Pasta: The “Build Your Own Pasta” option can be made vegan using the Robust Inspired Tomato Sauce and up to three vegetable toppings, but no vegan cheese is available.
In the UK, vegan sides include Potato Wedges and Plant-Based Nuggets, offering more options for a complete meal.
Conclusion: The verdict on Domino's for vegans
So, can vegans eat Domino's pizza? Yes, but with significant caveats based on location. In the U.S., a completely vegan pizza requires specific ordering and the acceptance of a cheeseless pie. International locations, however, are far more accommodating, with dedicated vegan crusts, cheese, and menu items. For those in the U.S. seeking a quick vegan meal, a custom vegetable pizza with a thin crust is a possibility, though the lack of vegan cheese is a major drawback. International vegans can enjoy a more complete pizza experience. For individuals with severe allergies, the risk of cross-contamination should be a serious consideration. Ultimately, the best practice is always to check the local menu and confirm ingredient details at the specific store before ordering. For more detailed information on vegan fast food options, PETA offers useful resources: PETA's Guide to Ordering Vegan at Domino's.
