Is Rice Krispie treat vegetarian? Unpacking the Ingredients

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

While the classic Rice Krispie treat is a beloved snack, many vegetarians are surprised to discover the answer to 'Is Rice Krispie treat vegetarian?' is often no. This is because the classic recipe relies on standard marshmallows, which are traditionally made with an animal-derived ingredient.

Quick Summary

Classic Rice Krispie treats are not vegetarian due to marshmallows containing gelatin, which is an animal product. Vegetarian or vegan versions can be made by swapping gelatin-based marshmallows with plant-based alternatives.

Key Points

Gelatin is the Culprit: Most commercial marshmallows contain gelatin, an animal product, making classic Rice Krispie treats non-vegetarian.
Check Marshmallow Labels: For a vegetarian-friendly treat, use brands like Dandies or Trader Joe's that make gelatin-free, plant-based marshmallows.
Consider the Cereal: Some crispy rice cereals contain Vitamin D3 from animal sources. Opt for vegan-specific cereal brands to be safe.
Use Vegan Alternatives: Swap dairy butter for vegan butter or coconut oil and use plant-based binders like nut butter or brown rice syrup for a vegan recipe.
Read All Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredient list for hidden animal-derived products, especially in pre-made treats.

The Gelatin Problem in Standard Marshmallows

At the heart of the matter is one key ingredient: gelatin. Gelatin is a gelling agent used to give marshmallows their signature fluffy, springy texture. However, gelatin is derived from the collagen found in the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals, most commonly cows and pigs. This means that any treat made with standard, gelatin-based marshmallows is not suitable for vegetarians, and certainly not for vegans. For example, Kraft Jet-Puffed marshmallows explicitly state that the gelatin they use is pork-based. This detail often goes unnoticed by consumers who assume such a common treat would be vegetarian-friendly.

The Cereal Itself: A Closer Look

While the marshmallows are the primary non-vegetarian component, it’s also important for strict vegetarians and vegans to examine the cereal used. The Rice Krispies cereal itself is generally vegetarian, containing rice, sugar, salt, and malt flavoring. However, some brands, including certain versions of Kellogg's, fortify their cereal with Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 can be derived from lanolin, a wax from sheep's wool, which some strict vegetarians and most vegans consider an animal product. Fortunately, many vegan or organic crispy rice cereals, such as those from Nature's Path or One Degree, avoid this additive and are safe for a plant-based diet. Additionally, those following a gluten-free diet should be aware that traditional Rice Krispies contain malt flavoring, which is derived from barley and therefore contains gluten. Gluten-free crispy rice cereals are available as an alternative.

Embracing Vegetarian Alternatives

Creating a vegetarian or vegan version of Rice Krispie treats is a simple process that requires substituting the non-vegetarian ingredients with plant-based alternatives. The most common and effective swap is using vegetarian or vegan marshmallows. Today, numerous brands offer gelatin-free marshmallows that achieve a similar texture. These often use plant-based gelling agents like tapioca starch, carrageenan (derived from seaweed), or agar-agar. Popular brands include Dandies and Trader Joe's. For those looking to avoid marshmallows entirely, alternative binders can be used to hold the treats together. Healthy alternatives use ingredients such as:

Nut or Seed Butters: Almond, peanut, or sunflower seed butter provides a creamy and binding base.
Brown Rice Syrup: This thick, sticky sweetener can effectively replace marshmallows while reducing processed sugar content.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Used in combination with nut butter, these can create a sticky mixture for binding.
Coconut Oil: Often used alongside nut butters and sweeteners to achieve the right consistency.

When making your own, ensure that any mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, sprinkles, or flavorings, are also confirmed vegetarian or vegan.

Classic vs. Vegetarian vs. Vegan Rice Krispie Treats

Here is a comparison of the different types of Rice Krispie treats, highlighting the key ingredient differences:


Feature	Classic Rice Krispie Treats	Vegetarian-Friendly Treats	Vegan Treats
Marshmallows	Standard, gelatin-based marshmallows.	Gelatin-free marshmallows (e.g., Dandies).	Gelatin-free, vegan marshmallows.
Cereal	Standard Rice Krispies (often with Vitamin D3).	Standard or organic crispy rice cereal (check D3 source).	Vegan crispy rice cereal (e.g., Nature's Path, One Degree).
Butter	Dairy butter.	Dairy butter.	Vegan butter or coconut oil.
Binder Alternatives	N/A	Nut butter, brown rice syrup, honey.	Nut butter, brown rice syrup, maple syrup.
Suitability	Not for vegetarians or vegans.	For vegetarians. Requires checking Vitamin D3 for strict vegetarians.	For vegans and vegetarians. Requires checking all ingredients.

What to Check When Buying or Baking

For vegetarians and vegans, a mindful approach to food labels and ingredients is crucial. When purchasing pre-made treats, check the label for gelatin. For homemade versions, follow these steps:

Read Marshmallow Labels: Always purchase marshmallows explicitly labeled as vegetarian or vegan.
Check Cereal Ingredients: Look for a crispy rice cereal that does not contain animal-derived Vitamin D3. Organic brands are often a safer bet.
Choose Your Fats: Opt for vegan butter or coconut oil to replace dairy butter.
Examine All Add-ins: Ensure any extra ingredients, like chocolate chips or food coloring, are also free from animal products like carmine or dairy.

Conclusion: A Sweet Treat for All

So, is Rice Krispie treat vegetarian? The answer depends entirely on the ingredients used. The classic, traditional recipe is not vegetarian due to the gelatin in standard marshmallows. However, making a vegetarian or vegan version is simple and delicious, thanks to the increasing availability of plant-based alternatives. By paying close attention to labels and opting for gelatin-free marshmallows, vegan butter, and suitable cereal, everyone can enjoy a delicious and nostalgic crispy treat. This careful approach to ingredients allows individuals following vegetarian and vegan diets to enjoy a wide variety of desserts without compromising their dietary principles.

For more vegetarian and vegan recipes, explore resources like Tinned Tomatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal is generally considered vegetarian, but it is fortified with Vitamin D3, which is sometimes derived from an animal source (lanolin from sheep's wool). Strict vegetarians and vegans may prefer to use a certified vegan crispy rice cereal to avoid this.

Gelatin is a gelling agent made from animal collagen, a protein found in the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals, such as cows and pigs. This is why most standard marshmallows are not vegetarian.

Several brands now produce vegetarian and vegan marshmallows using plant-based gelling agents instead of gelatin. Popular examples include Dandies and Trader Joe's brand marshmallows.

You can use alternative binders like brown rice syrup, nut butters (e.g., almond or peanut butter), honey, or maple syrup mixed with a little coconut oil to hold the cereal together.

No, standard Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring, which is derived from barley and is not gluten-free. There are gluten-free crispy rice cereals available for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

To be sure, you must check the ingredient list on the packaging. Look for the word 'gelatin.' If it is listed, the treat is not vegetarian. Many food apps also allow you to scan the barcode to check for dietary suitability.

Yes, other common non-vegetarian ingredients to be aware of include carmine (red food coloring from insects), certain types of sugar refined with bone char, and some natural flavorings. Careful label reading is always recommended.