Most Traditional Hershey's Products Contain Dairy
For decades, The Hershey Company's flagship products have been built around a classic milk chocolate formula. The signature creamy taste of a Hershey's Milk Chocolate bar or Hershey's Kisses comes from dairy ingredients, making them non-vegan. The ingredient list for a standard Hershey's Milk Chocolate bar clearly shows the presence of milk solids and milk fat. Lactose is also frequently listed, another dairy-derived component.
It's a common misconception that all dark chocolate is vegan, but this isn't the case with all Hershey's products. For instance, the Hershey's Special Dark bar, while having a higher cocoa content, also contains milk fat. This is an important distinction for consumers, as the dark chocolate label alone does not guarantee a vegan product. Products like Hershey's Syrup are also typically made with non-vegan ingredients.
Common non-vegan ingredients in Hershey's products
- Milk: A primary ingredient in most milk chocolate and often found in other products.
- Milk Fat: The fat component of milk, commonly used for flavor and texture in chocolate.
- Lactose: A sugar found in milk.
- PGPR (Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate): While the source can vary, it is often derived from castor bean oil but may interact with other non-vegan ingredients in the manufacturing process.
- Natural Flavor: This term can sometimes refer to animal-derived substances. When milk or soy are also listed as allergens, it becomes a question for those with strict dietary guidelines.
Vegan-Friendly Hershey's Products and Alternatives
In response to growing demand, The Hershey Company has expanded its product line to include explicitly vegan options. The most notable are the Hershey's Oat Made bars, which use oat flour instead of milk to achieve a creamy texture. These plant-based bars are available in flavors such as Classic Dark and Extra Creamy Almond & Sea Salt, and are clearly labeled as vegan.
Another reliable vegan option from the brand is their unsweetened cocoa powder. Both the regular and Special Dark varieties are vegan, making them suitable for vegan baking and hot cocoa recipes. However, it is essential to use a vegan milk alternative when preparing, for example, a hot cocoa drink.
Comparing popular Hershey's products and their vegan status
| Product Name | Vegan Status | Key Non-Vegan Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar | No | Milk, Milk Fat, Lactose | Classic, iconic product is not vegan. |
| Hershey's Kisses (Milk Chocolate) | No | Milk, Milk Fat | Made with milk chocolate, contains dairy. |
| Hershey's Special Dark Chocolate Bar | No | Milk Fat | Contains milk fat, not vegan despite being dark chocolate. |
| Hershey's Oat Made Bars | Yes | None | Specifically formulated as a plant-based, vegan product. |
| Hershey's Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | Yes | None | A pure cocoa product suitable for vegan cooking and baking. |
Navigating Cross-Contamination Concerns
For individuals with severe allergies or strict vegan principles, cross-contamination is a critical consideration. Many of Hershey's products are manufactured on the same equipment that processes dairy and other allergens. While a product like the Oat Made bar or cocoa powder may not have dairy in its ingredient list, there is a risk of traces of milk being present due to shared manufacturing lines.
Hershey's often includes an advisory on its packaging regarding shared equipment, and individuals should always read the most current label. This information is crucial for those who must avoid dairy entirely for health or ethical reasons. While it may not deter all vegans, those with the strictest standards may prefer to stick to brands that guarantee no cross-contamination.
How to verify vegan status on the go
- Read the label: Always check the ingredient list for milk, lactose, and milk fat. Also look for certifications.
- Check for allergens: Scan the label for bolded warnings about shared equipment or the presence of common allergens like milk.
- Search online: If unsure, consult Hershey's official website or reliable third-party resources for the most up-to-date ingredient information.
- Look for 'Plant-Based' labeling: Hershey's makes it clear on its packaging which products are explicitly plant-based, such as the Oat Made line.
Conclusion: Read Labels and Choose Wisely
The question of whether Hershey's chocolate is vegan or non-veg has evolved over time. While the classic products that made the brand famous are overwhelmingly non-vegan due to their dairy content, the company has introduced promising plant-based alternatives. Shoppers must move beyond brand loyalty and examine each product individually. The key is to check the ingredient list for milk-derived components and to be mindful of potential cross-contamination if that is a concern. By doing so, vegans can enjoy select Hershey's products like their Oat Made bars or classic cocoa powder while avoiding the many that are not suitable for their diet.
For more information on the company's products and ingredients, you can visit the Hershey's official website.
