Common Animal-Derived Ingredients in Candy
Understanding the key ingredients to look for is the first step in identifying which candy is not vegan. These components, often used for color, texture, or gloss, can be easily overlooked by an unsuspecting consumer.
Gelatin: The Chewy Culprit
Gelatin is perhaps the most widely known non-vegan ingredient in candy. It is a gelling agent derived from animal collagen, typically sourced from the boiled bones, skin, and connective tissues of cows and pigs. It is responsible for the characteristic chewy, bouncy texture found in many popular treats. This includes most gummy candies, such as gummy bears, gummy worms, and marshmallows. For a vegan alternative, manufacturers use plant-based gelling agents like pectin (from fruits) or agar-agar (from seaweed).
Carmine: The Crushed Beetle Dye
For those who love vibrant, red-colored candies, the ingredient list is particularly important to scrutinize. Carmine, also known as cochineal extract or E120, is a red dye produced from the ground-up bodies of female cochineal insects. This coloring agent is used in a variety of foods and cosmetics, including many red, pink, and purple candies. The good news is that many companies now use synthetic red dyes or plant-based alternatives like beet extract, but checking the label for "carmine" or "cochineal extract" is essential.
Confectioner's Glaze (Shellac): The Insect-Secreted Shine
To achieve a shiny, polished finish on hard-shelled candies and chocolate-covered products, manufacturers often use confectioner's glaze. This glaze, also called shellac or E904, is a resin secreted by the female lac bug. The production process involves harvesting the insects and their secretions from tree branches, making it a non-vegan ingredient. Alternatives for a glossy finish include plant-based waxes, such as carnauba wax, or new corn protein coatings.
Dairy Products: More Than Just Milk Chocolate
Dairy ingredients are a definite red flag for vegans and are present in more than just milk chocolate bars. Whey, milk solids, milk fat, and casein are all common dairy derivatives that appear in ingredients lists. These can be found in creamy caramels, certain chocolate coatings, and candies with a milky center. Many vegan alternatives exist, with companies creating delicious plant-based milk chocolates and creamy treats using coconut, oat, or almond milk.
Other Surprising Non-Vegan Ingredients
- Bone Char in Sugar: Some refined white sugar is processed using bone char (charcoal from animal bones) to achieve a white color. Opting for organic sugar or products with a vegan certification can help you avoid this.
- Beeswax: Used as a coating agent in some candies. Vegan alternatives include carnauba wax.
- Honey: A product from bees, considered non-vegan by many.
How to Read Candy Labels Effectively
Navigating the ingredient list is the best way to ensure a product aligns with your dietary values. Here's what to look for:
- Seek Vegan Certifications: The easiest method is to look for a "Vegan Certified" logo or a label that says "Suitable for Vegans".
- Scrutinize the Ingredient List: Become familiar with the names of common non-vegan ingredients like gelatin, carmine (cochineal extract, E120), shellac (confectioner's glaze, resinous glaze, E904), whey, casein, milkfat, and lactose.
- Investigate "Natural Flavors": The term "natural flavors" can sometimes mask animal-derived ingredients. While this is less common now, it can be a source of ambiguity. When in doubt, research the manufacturer's vegan policies or choose certified vegan products.
- Understand Allergen Statements: Phrases like "may contain milk" are warnings for allergy sufferers and do not necessarily mean the product intentionally contains dairy ingredients. However, some vegans may choose to avoid products with shared equipment. This is a personal decision based on individual ethics.
Common Non-Vegan Candies: A Comparison
| Ingredient | Animal Source | Found In | Vegan Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gelatin | Cow/Pig collagen | Gummy candies, marshmallows, Jell-O | Pectin, Agar-Agar |
| Carmine (E120) | Crushed cochineal insects | Some red, pink, or purple candies | Beet juice, paprika extract |
| Confectioner's Glaze (E904) | Lac bug secretions | Hard-shelled candies (e.g., M&Ms, Skittles) | Carnauba wax, corn protein |
| Dairy | Cow's milk | Milk chocolate, caramels, creamy fillings | Plant-based milk, coconut milk, oat milk |
Popular Examples of Candy That Are Not Vegan
- M&M's: Contain dairy products like milk chocolate.
- Milk Duds: Contain milk and other dairy ingredients.
- Traditional Gummies: Most contain gelatin, though many brands have released vegan versions. Always check the label.
- Marshmallows: Almost always contain gelatin unless explicitly labeled vegan.
- Some Red Candies: Certain red, pink, or purple varieties may use carmine for coloring, such as specific editions of Skittles or Nerds.
- Caramels: Many traditional caramel candies are made with milk or butter.
- Altoids: Some breath mints contain gelatin.
To see a list of surprisingly vegan candies and more in-depth information on brands, consider checking resources like the PETA candy guide.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of candy as a vegan requires diligence and a careful eye for hidden ingredients. From gelatin in gummies to carmine in red dyes, animal-derived products are more common than many people realize. By learning to identify key non-vegan ingredients like gelatin, carmine, and shellac, and by checking labels thoroughly, you can easily make informed choices. With the growing market for vegan confectionery, finding delicious, animal-free treats is easier than ever, ensuring you can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your values.
