The Non-Vegan Original: Standard Galaxy Cookie Crumble
The original Galaxy Cookie Crumble bar is a classic treat beloved for its creamy texture and crunchy cookie pieces. However, its ingredients list makes it unsuitable for vegans. The core ingredient is milk chocolate, which is made with animal-derived dairy products. Key non-vegan ingredients include skimmed milk powder, milk fat, and whey permeate. These are standard components in milk chocolate recipes and clearly indicate that the product is not plant-based. It's also important to note the standard bar uses wheat flour, which means it is not gluten-free either. This is an important distinction to make when comparing it to its dairy-free counterpart.
The Vegan Alternative: Galaxy Vegan Crumbled Cookie
Recognizing the growing demand for plant-based options, Mars launched a specific range of vegan chocolates under the Galaxy brand. The Galaxy Vegan Dairy Free Crumbled Cookie bar is part of this range and is confirmed to be suitable for vegans. This version replaces the dairy milk with a smooth and creamy hazelnut paste, providing a rich cocoa flavour without any animal products. The cookie pieces within this bar are also made from plant-based ingredients. To ensure its vegan status, the product is registered with The Vegan Society. A crucial detail for those with severe allergies is that this range is manufactured in a completely dairy-free and gluten-free environment to avoid cross-contamination.
How to Spot the Vegan Version on the Shelf
When you're at the supermarket, knowing how to identify the correct bar is essential. The packaging is your primary guide. The vegan version will clearly state "Dairy Free" and "Vegan" on the front. Additionally, look for the official Vegan Society trademark, which provides a guarantee of its plant-based credentials. The standard, non-vegan bar will have no such claims and will list milk prominently in its ingredients and allergen information.
Quick Identification Checklist
- Read the packaging: Look for prominent "Vegan" and "Dairy Free" labels.
- Check for the logo: Confirm the presence of the Vegan Society symbol.
- Read the ingredients: Scan the list for milk or milk derivatives.
- Look for allergen warnings: The standard bar will clearly state "Contains Milk".
Comparison Table: Standard vs. Vegan Cookie Crumble
| Feature | Standard Galaxy Cookie Crumble | Galaxy Vegan Crumbled Cookie |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Status | No (contains milk) | Yes (registered with Vegan Society) |
| Key Ingredient | Milk Chocolate (with milk fat, powder, whey) | Hazelnut Paste |
| Allergens | Milk, Soya, Wheat. May contain nuts | Soya, Hazelnuts. May contain other nuts |
| Environment | Regular production facility | Dairy-free and gluten-free environment |
| Certification | None | Vegan Society certified |
Other Vegan Galaxy Flavours and Alternatives
Galaxy has expanded its vegan line beyond the Crumbled Cookie flavour, offering a variety of other delicious plant-based options.
Other Galaxy Vegan Options
- Smooth Orange
- Caramelised Hazelnut
- Caramel & Sea Salt
- Smooth Mint
- Smooth White
If you're exploring other brands, several accidentally vegan snacks and dedicated vegan chocolate bars are available in the UK. Brands like NOMO and Lindt (certain dark chocolate varieties) offer great dairy-free products. For a comprehensive list of other plant-based treats, a resource like Veganuary's guide to accidentally vegan products can be a huge help.
The Final Word on Galaxy Cookie Crumble and Veganism
It is clear that while the classic Galaxy cookie crumble is not vegan due to its dairy content, the specific Galaxy Vegan Crumbled Cookie bar is a perfectly suitable and certified plant-based alternative. For anyone following a vegan diet, the key is to always read the label carefully, looking for explicit "Dairy Free" and "Vegan" certifications to ensure you're picking up the right product. The existence of this dedicated vegan range from a mainstream brand demonstrates the increasing accessibility of plant-based options in the confectionery market, making it easier than ever to enjoy a cruelty-free treat.
Visit Veganuary for a comprehensive guide on more accidentally vegan snacks
