Nutrition Diet: Can vegans eat bourbon biscuits? A surprisingly sweet discovery

While many assume classic treats contain dairy, a surprising number of traditional bourbon biscuits are actually considered 'accidentally vegan,' made with plant-based ingredients. However, the key lies in scrutinising the ingredients list, as not all versions of this iconic chocolate sandwich biscuit are created equal for those on a strict vegan diet.

Quick Summary

Bourbon biscuits are often suitable for vegans, but it is vital to check ingredient lists for hidden dairy, especially in cream fillings. Certain brands might use milk derivatives, while others, like many UK supermarket versions, are traditionally dairy-free.

Key Points

• Accidentally Vegan Status: Many traditional bourbon biscuits, especially supermarket own-brands in the UK, are 'accidentally vegan' due to their simple recipe.

• Label Checking is Crucial: Always read the ingredients list, as some brands add milk powder, whey, or other dairy derivatives, particularly in the chocolate cream filling.

• Beware of Hidden Dairy: Ingredients like milk powder, whey powder, casein, and milk solids are common non-vegan additives to watch for on labels.

• Consider the Sugar: Some cane sugar is processed with bone char, a non-vegan filter, though this is a complex issue and less common in the UK. Look for organic or beet sugar if concerned.

• Homemade Offers Control: For complete assurance of vegan ingredients, and to manage ethical concerns like palm oil sourcing, making homemade bourbon biscuits is the best option.

• Explore Other Alternatives: Many other biscuits like plain Hobnobs, Oreos, and Lotus Biscoff are also accidentally vegan, offering variety for snack time.

The 'Accidentally Vegan' Status of Bourbon Biscuits

For many vegans, discovering that a beloved childhood treat is plant-based is a delightful surprise. Bourbon biscuits often fall into this category of 'accidentally vegan' foods. The traditional recipe for this chocolate sandwich biscuit typically includes wheat flour, sugar, fat-reduced cocoa powder, vegetable oil, and leavening agents. Many supermarket own-brand bourbons, especially in the UK, adhere to this simple, dairy-free formula, making them a popular and accessible treat for those following a plant-based diet. However, the vegan status of bourbon biscuits is not a universal guarantee across all brands and regions, making careful ingredient checking an essential habit.

Why You Must Check the Label

The most significant pitfall for vegans occurs when manufacturers alter the standard recipe. Some producers might add milk derivatives to the chocolate cream filling to achieve a certain flavour or texture. Common non-vegan ingredients to look out for include:

• Milk Powder: Evaporated milk, used to add creaminess, will be listed on the ingredients.
• Whey Powder: A byproduct of cheese production, it is often used as a cheap filler and is not vegan.
• Casein/Caseinate: A protein derived from milk, sometimes used as a binder or emulsifier.
• Skimmed Milk Solids: A concentrated form of milk used in some formulations.

Some brands, including specific supermarket own-brands like Aldi, have been known to include milk powder in their bourbons, rendering them non-vegan. This highlights the importance of reading the allergen information and the full ingredients list on every new packet, even if a brand was previously vegan-friendly.

The Sugar Debate and Ethical Considerations

Beyond dairy, some vegans choose to avoid certain types of processed sugar due to ethical concerns regarding its filtration process. Cane sugar is sometimes refined using bone char, a charcoal made from cattle bones, to achieve a whiter colour. Although no bone particles remain in the final sugar product, its use in the process means that some vegans avoid it. In the UK, bone char filtration is less common, but it is used in some other countries, including the US. To avoid this, look for brands that specify they use beet sugar, organic sugar, or have an official vegan certification.

Another ethical consideration is palm oil. While technically a vegetable oil and therefore vegan, its production is linked to significant deforestation and habitat destruction, particularly in Southeast Asia. This has resulted in a critical loss of biodiversity and harm to endangered species, making it a controversial ingredient for many ethical vegans. Consumers can opt for brands that use sustainable palm oil certified by organisations like the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) or choose products that are completely palm oil-free.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Vegan Bourbons

When it comes to enjoying bourbon biscuits, you have two main options: relying on accidentally vegan store-bought brands or making your own from scratch. Each approach has its own set of considerations.

Feature	Store-Bought Vegan Bourbons	Homemade Vegan Bourbons
Convenience	High. Grab-and-go from the supermarket.	Low. Requires time for preparation, baking, and chilling.
Vegan Status Certainty	Variable. Requires diligent label checking; risk of cross-contamination exists.	High. Complete control over all ingredients and preparation process.
Ingredient Control	Low. Ingredients are pre-selected by the manufacturer. Includes additives like flavourings.	High. Can choose high-quality, whole-food, and alternative ingredients.
Cost	Generally lower per biscuit, especially own-brand varieties.	Potentially higher upfront due to ingredient purchases, but can be cost-effective long-term.
Nutritional Profile	Often higher in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives.	Can be healthier by using less refined sugar, healthier fats, and whole grain flours.
Ethical Control	Limited. Dependent on brand's policies regarding palm oil and sugar processing.	High. Full choice over palm oil-free and bone char-free alternatives.

Making Your Own Vegan Bourbon Biscuits

For those who prefer complete control over ingredients or want to avoid potential animal product contamination, baking your own is a rewarding option. The process uses simple, readily available plant-based substitutions.

Typical Vegan Recipe Substitutions:

• Butter: Use vegan butter blocks or solid coconut oil for the best texture. Margarine in a tub has a higher water content and can yield a softer biscuit.
• Sugar: Ensure it is a vegan-certified brand or use an alternative like maple syrup for a different flavour profile.
• Milk: A splash of plant-based milk (soy, almond, or oat) might be needed to bring the dough together.
• Filling: A mixture of cocoa powder, icing sugar, and vegan butter creates the classic chocolate cream.

Simple Baking Process:

1. Prepare the Dough: Cream together vegan butter and sugar, then mix in flour and cocoa powder to form a crumbly dough.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to firm it up, which helps prevent spreading during baking.
3. Bake: Roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and bake until firm.
4. Make the Filling: Whisk together vegan butter, icing sugar, and cocoa powder until fluffy.
5. Assemble: Sandwich the chocolate cream filling between two cooled biscuit halves.

Other Accidentally Vegan Biscuits to Explore

Beyond bourbons, the UK market offers several other biscuits that are often accidentally vegan. As with bourbons, always double-check the labels for peace of mind.

• Plain Hobnobs: The oaty, crumbly version is a vegan classic, though the chocolate-covered varieties often contain milk.
• Digestives: Plain digestives are frequently vegan, but dark chocolate versions require a check, as some use milk-derived ingredients.
• Oreos: Original Oreos are famously vegan, though varieties like Birthday Cake may contain milk.
• Party Rings: These colourful, nostalgic treats are often free from animal products and artificial colours.
• Lotus Biscoff: The caramelised biscuits are a staple for many vegans and a popular coffee companion.
• Rich Tea: A simple, dunkable biscuit that is usually vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is possible for vegans to eat bourbon biscuits, the answer is not a simple yes or no. The vegan status is highly brand-dependent, so the practice of carefully reading labels for hidden milk derivatives is non-negotiable. Concerns around bone char-filtered sugar and ethically sourced palm oil add further layers for conscious consumers. For ultimate peace of mind and control over ingredients, making homemade vegan bourbons is a simple and rewarding alternative. As the vegan food market continues to grow, consumers can also explore a range of certified vegan alternatives to enjoy their favourite sweet treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all bourbon biscuits suitable for vegans?

No, not all bourbon biscuits are vegan. While many classic versions from major brands are 'accidentally vegan,' some manufacturers use milk powder or other dairy derivatives in the cream filling. It is essential to check the ingredients label every time you buy them.

What non-vegan ingredients should I check for on the label?

Key non-vegan ingredients to look out for include milk powder, whey powder, casein/caseinate, and other milk derivatives. These are often used in the creamy filling and will be listed in the allergen information on the packaging.

Are supermarket own-brand bourbons safe for vegans?

Many supermarket own-brand bourbons in the UK are accidentally vegan and do not contain dairy. However, this is not a guarantee, and some, like certain varieties from Aldi, have been noted to contain milk ingredients. Always check the specific label.

Does the sugar in bourbon biscuits affect its vegan status?

Potentially, yes. Some cane sugar is refined using bone char, which is derived from animal bones. While the final sugar product is chemically vegan, some ethical vegans avoid it. This is a debated topic, but looking for certified vegan products or those made with beet sugar can avoid this issue.

Is palm oil, found in many biscuits, considered vegan?

Palm oil is a vegetable product and is technically vegan. However, its production is frequently linked to deforestation and severe environmental damage, which raises ethical concerns for many vegans who oppose the resulting harm to animals. Some vegans choose to avoid it.

Can I make my own vegan bourbon biscuits at home?

Yes, it is straightforward to make vegan bourbon biscuits at home using common plant-based substitutes for butter and milk. This gives you complete control over all ingredients and ensures there is no cross-contamination.

Are there other accidentally vegan biscuits similar to bourbons?

Yes, many other popular biscuits are accidentally vegan. Examples include original Oreos, plain Hobnobs, plain Digestives, Lotus Biscoff, Party Rings, and Rich Tea biscuits.