A Sweet Surprise: How Skittles Became Vegan
For many years, the question of what animal is in Skittles was a simple one with a clear, non-vegan answer. Animal-derived ingredients like gelatin and carmine were integral to the candy's production. However, in the early 2000s, motivated by consumer demand and ethical considerations, the manufacturers made a significant shift. By 2009, they removed gelatin, and by around 2015, they eliminated the insect-derived red food coloring, carmine. This change transformed Skittles from a candy unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians into one that is widely accessible for a plant-based diet today.
The Controversial Past: Gelatin and Carmine
Historically, two key animal-based ingredients defined Skittles' recipe and raised concerns for many consumers. One was gelatin, a protein derived from animal collagen, specifically from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals like cows and pigs. It was used to give the candies their chewy texture, a standard practice for many soft and gummy candies at the time. The second controversial ingredient was carmine, also known as E120 or cochineal extract, which was responsible for Skittles' vibrant red color. This pigment comes from the crushed female cochineal beetle, a small insect harvested from cacti. For strict vegetarians and vegans, the presence of these ingredients made Skittles a definite no-go.
The Shift to Plant-Based Alternatives
In response to growing demand for transparent and ethically sourced food, Mars Wrigley reformulated the standard Skittles recipe. The animal-based gelatin was replaced with plant-derived alternatives like modified corn starch and pectin, which provide a similar texture without using animal byproducts. Likewise, the crimson red carmine was replaced with synthetic food dyes, such as Red 40. These reformulations have allowed Skittles to market their product to a much wider consumer base while retaining their famous chewy and flavorful profile.
The Ingredients of Modern Skittles
So, what is in a modern pack of Skittles? A glance at the ingredients list reveals a composition of primarily sugar, corn syrup, and various plant-based additives.
- Sugar: The primary sweetener. Concerns exist that some cane sugar is processed using bone char, an animal byproduct, but no animal material remains in the final product.
- Corn Syrup: A plant-based sweetener and binder derived from corn starch.
- Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil: A vegetable oil used for texture and flavor enhancement.
- Modified Corn Starch and Tapioca Dextrin: Plant-derived thickeners and binders that replace gelatin.
- Natural and Artificial Flavors: Combinations of compounds that produce the distinct fruit flavors.
- Colors: A mix of synthetic food dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, which are derived from petroleum.
- Sodium Citrate and Citric Acid: Used for flavor and preservation.
- Carnauba Wax: A plant-based wax from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree, giving the candies their signature glossy finish.
Considerations for Different Skittles Varieties
While the classic Skittles are generally vegan-friendly, it is crucial to remain vigilant with different flavors or regional variations.
Original vs. Other Varieties
Some limited edition or international flavors may still contain animal-derived ingredients. For example, certain international versions might use different glazes or colorings due to local regulations and preferences. For this reason, always checking the ingredient label is the safest approach for those with dietary restrictions.
| Feature | Classic (US) Skittles | Older Skittles / Limited Editions | Gummy Candies (e.g., Starburst Gummies) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gelatin | No (Replaced by modified corn starch) | Yes (Present before 2009) | Often Contains Gelatin |
| Carmine (E120) | No (Replaced by synthetic dyes) | Yes (Present before ~2015, especially UK) | Varies by product; check label. |
| Shellac (Glaze) | No (Replaced by Carnauba wax) | Yes (Present before 2009) | Varies; check for Confectioner's Glaze |
| Cane Sugar Refinement | May be processed using bone char | May be processed using bone char | May be processed using bone char |
| Vegan Status | Generally considered vegan | Not vegan (contained gelatin and carmine) | Not vegan if it contains gelatin |
The Ongoing Sugar Debate
Another point of contention for some strict vegans is the use of white refined cane sugar. This sugar is often whitened using bone char, which is derived from cattle bones. While no bone char remains in the final product, some vegans find this process ethically objectionable. Unless a sugar is certified organic or explicitly labeled vegan, it is often impossible to know if bone char was used in its processing.
Conclusion: Navigating Ingredients for Conscientious Snacking
Today, standard Skittles no longer contain the animal-derived ingredients like gelatin and carmine that were used in the past. This reformulation makes them accessible to a broader audience, including many who follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. The modern recipe is primarily composed of plant-based and synthetic components, offering a different picture than what was true a decade ago. However, for those with the strictest of dietary standards, the lingering possibility of non-vegan sugar processing in some varieties and potential differences in international formulations or limited-edition runs means that checking the ingredient label remains the most important step for making an informed choice. It is a reminder that even the most well-known products can evolve over time, and a little bit of research goes a long way. Ultimately, for the vast majority of consumers, the answer to "what animal is in Skittles?" is none, but the details behind that change are a testament to shifting consumer preferences and corporate responsiveness.
