Top Vegan Bagel Brands at the Grocery Store
For many vegans, the grocery store is the most common place to find bagels. Thankfully, several major brands offer reliable plant-based options. By checking the ingredient list for key components like eggs, milk, and honey, you can easily find safe choices. Here is a look at some of the most dependable vegan bagel brands available today.
Thomas' Bagels
Thomas' is one of the most widely available and reliable brands for vegan bagels. Most of their traditional and thin varieties are vegan, though it is always wise to double-check the label, as recipes can sometimes change or regional variations may exist. The brand's website confirms the vegan status of many of its products, noting their monoglycerides are vegetable-derived.
- Vegan Varieties: Plain, Everything, Cinnamon Raisin, Blueberry, 100% Whole Wheat, and Bagel Thins in Plain and Everything flavors.
- Check Ingredients: Pay attention to any limited-edition or specialty flavors, but classics are consistently vegan.
Dave's Killer Bread Bagels
Known for their organic and nutritious breads, Dave's Killer Bread also offers a range of vegan bagels. This brand is a favorite for those who prefer sprouted grains and higher-protein options.
- Vegan Varieties: Plain Awesome, Epic Everything, and Cinnamon Raisin Remix.
- Honey: Be aware that other products from Dave's Killer Bread, like their Honey Oats & Flax bread, are not vegan, but their bagel line is reliable.
Trader Joe's Bagels
Trader Joe's often carries store-brand bagels that are vegan-friendly. Their classic plain and whole wheat options are generally safe bets for vegans. As with any private label, a quick scan of the ingredient list is recommended.
- Vegan Varieties: Plain and Whole Wheat are typically vegan.
- Tip: Watch for limited-run or seasonal flavors that may contain dairy or egg.
Western Bagel
Western Bagel is a brand that actively promotes its vegan-friendly products and values transparency regarding ingredients. Most of their standard flavors are vegan, but specialty or flavored options may need scrutiny.
- Vegan Varieties: Plain, Everything, Sesame, and most classic flavors.
- Exception: Avoid their Egg Bagels and certain Bagelettes varieties.
Vegan Options at Popular Coffee Shops and Bakeries
When you're on the go, finding vegan bagels at popular chain restaurants is also possible, but it requires being aware of their menu and potential non-vegan spreads.
Dunkin' Donuts
Dunkin' offers several classic vegan bagel options that make it a reliable stop for a quick breakfast.
- Vegan Varieties: Plain, Everything, Sesame, and Cinnamon Raisin bagels are vegan.
- What to Avoid: The spreads. You will need to opt for a vegan alternative like avocado spread (if available) or simply eat it plain.
Einstein Bros. Bagels
Einstein Bros. is known for its wide variety of bagel flavors, and they offer a surprisingly extensive list of vegan options.
- Vegan Varieties: Plain, Everything, Sesame, Cinnamon Raisin, Blueberry, and more.
- What to Avoid: Dairy-based flavors like Asiago Cheese and Jalapeno Cheddar. Also, some specialty bagels may contain non-vegan ingredients like honey.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread has long been a friendly destination for vegan diners, with several of their core bagel offerings being plant-based.
- Vegan Varieties: Plain, Everything, and Blueberry.
- Dairy: Be aware that Panera does not offer a vegan cream cheese alternative.
What to Look for: Hidden Non-Vegan Ingredients
Even with trusted brands, it's crucial to be an educated consumer. A quick scan of the ingredients can save you from accidentally consuming animal products.
- L-cysteine: An amino acid sometimes used as a dough conditioner, which can be derived from animal sources (like hair or feathers). Reputable brands, like Einstein Bros., use a synthetic version, but always check.
- Honey: Used as a sweetener, honey is not considered vegan and can appear in sweet bagel varieties like cinnamon raisin or honey wheat.
- Milk Products: Ingredients like whey or casein are common in mass-produced baked goods for texture and preservation.
- Egg Wash: Some bakery bagels get a shiny finish from an egg wash, making them non-vegan. This is typically a concern with fresh bakery items rather than pre-packaged ones.
Comparison of Popular Vegan Bagel Brands
To help you decide, here is a comparative overview of some top vegan-friendly bagel brands.
| Feature | Thomas' | Dave's Killer Bread | Western Bagel | Dunkin' Donuts (in-store) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegan Flavors | Excellent range, including classics and thins. | Organic options, including Plain Awesome and Epic Everything. | Good variety, plain and seeded flavors confirmed vegan. | Solid selection of classics (Plain, Everything). |
| Convenience | Widely available at most grocery stores. | Common in health food stores and larger supermarkets. | Good availability, especially in certain regions. | Quick and easy at thousands of locations. |
| Ingredient Transparency | Publicly stated vegetable-derived monoglycerides. | Explicitly labels vegan products. | Highlights ingredient transparency. | Clear menu listings for vegan items. |
| Texture & Flavor | Classic, dependable bagel texture. | Nutrient-dense, whole grain texture. | Known for classic texture (boiled then baked). | Standard chain bagel texture. |
Conclusion
Finding vegan bagels is often easier than many people assume, with a variety of brands offering suitable options both in grocery stores and at popular chain restaurants. Brands like Thomas', Dave's Killer Bread, and Western Bagel are excellent choices for reliable, plant-based bagels. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and read ingredient labels carefully to avoid common non-vegan additives such as eggs, milk derivatives, honey, or questionable dough conditioners like L-cysteine. By paying attention to product information and knowing which brands to trust, you can easily enjoy a delicious vegan bagel any time of day.
For more detailed information on vegan ingredient sources and labeling, resources like PETA can be very helpful, offering comprehensive lists of vegan products and brands.
Homemade Vegan Bagels
If you prefer to have complete control over your ingredients, making your own vegan bagels at home is a simple and rewarding option.
- Ingredients: Flour, water, yeast, sugar, and salt. You can also add vegetable oil or shortening for a softer texture.
- Process: The crucial steps involve kneading the dough, a proofing period, a short boil, and finally, baking in the oven.
- Benefits: Ensures no hidden animal products and allows for full customization of flavors and toppings.
Always Check the Label
While this guide highlights many trusted options, manufacturers can change ingredients. Always make it a habit to check the allergen and ingredient list on the packaging to ensure the product meets your dietary standards. This is the most reliable way to know for certain what brand of bagels are vegan at any given time.
