Understanding the Non-Vegan Ingredients in Candy
For those new to a vegan diet, it can be surprising to discover just how many common animal products are used in confectionery. Knowing what to look for on an ingredients list is the first step toward finding vegan-friendly options.
Gelatin
Gelatin is one of the most well-known non-vegan ingredients, derived from animal collagen found in skin, bones, and connective tissues. It is a gelling agent that gives many gummy and chewy candies their texture. Candies like conventional gummy bears, marshmallows, and jelly sweets typically contain gelatin. Luckily, many brands are switching to plant-based gelling alternatives.
Carmine (E120)
Often listed as carmine, cochineal, or E120, this red food dye is extracted from the crushed shells of the cochineal beetle. It is used to create a vibrant red color in many foods and cosmetics, including some red-colored candies. Thankfully, many companies now use synthetic or vegetable-based dyes instead.
Confectioner's Glaze (Shellac)
If your candy has a shiny, polished finish, it may contain confectioner's glaze, also known as shellac or resinous glaze. This substance is secreted by the female lac insect and is used to create a protective, glossy coating. Some vegan versions now use plant-based alternatives like corn protein.
Dairy Derivatives
While chocolates are an obvious culprit, many other candies contain dairy derivatives like milk, whey, or casein to achieve a creamy texture. These are often found in caramel, toffee, and milk-based chocolate candies.
Bone Char Processed Sugar
Refined white sugar is a staple ingredient in many candies. However, some manufacturers process cane sugar using bone char, which is made from animal bones, to achieve a white color. While the final product doesn't contain bone char, many vegans avoid it. Look for certified organic sugar, which is never processed with bone char, or candies made with alternative sweeteners like agave or maple syrup.
Which Candies are Vegan? Popular Brands and Types
Navigating the candy aisle can be simple once you know which products are consistently vegan-friendly. Some of the most popular accidentally vegan candies are widely available.
Chewy and Gummy Candies
- Sour Patch Kids: These are famously gelatin-free, making them a reliable choice for a sour, chewy treat.
- Swedish Fish: The US version of Swedish Fish is gelatin-free. However, some varieties might contain beeswax for glazing, so always check the label.
- Skittles: In most countries, including the US, Skittles no longer contain gelatin or carmine, making them vegan-friendly. This was a change implemented by the manufacturer years ago.
- Twizzlers: All flavors of Twizzlers are free of gelatin and dairy.
- Dots: These chewy gumdrops are completely vegan, using modified food starch instead of gelatin.
Hard Candies and Lollipops
- Jolly Rancher Hard Candies: The standard hard candies and lollipops are vegan, containing no animal products in their core formula.
- Smarties (U.S. Version): These chalky, colorful candies are a classic vegan-friendly option.
- Dum Dums: These popular lollipops are vegan across all flavors, including the mystery flavor.
- Atomic Fireballs: This spicy, hard candy is completely vegan.
- Pez: The classic Pez candies are vegan.
Specialty and Artisan Vegan Brands
For those seeking more dedicated vegan options, several brands focus exclusively on plant-based products.
- Cocomels: Known for their delicious coconut milk caramels, all Cocomels products are vegan.
- Go Max Go: This brand creates vegan versions of popular candy bars, free from dairy and other animal products.
- Dandies: This brand produces vegan marshmallows using plant-based ingredients like tapioca starch and carrageenan instead of gelatin.
- Enjoy Life: Offers a range of allergy-friendly and vegan chocolate bars.
Vegan Candy Comparison Table
| Candy Brand | Vegan Status | Key Ingredients to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Skittles | Yes (in most regions) | Ensure it is a modern product; older versions contained gelatin and carmine. |
| Sour Patch Kids | Yes | Confirmed gelatin-free. |
| Milk Duds | No | Contains milk and other dairy products. |
| Swedish Fish | Yes, but check label | Standard US version is vegan, but some contain beeswax. |
| Dandies Marshmallows | Yes | Specifically formulated as a vegan product with tapioca and carrageenan instead of gelatin. |
| Generic Gummy Bears | No | Almost always contain gelatin. Opt for a certified vegan alternative. |
| Jolly Ranchers | Yes | Standard hard candies are vegan. |
| Reese's Peanut Butter Cups | No | Contains dairy. Plant-based versions are now available from some brands. |
Tips for Shopping for Vegan Candies
While this guide covers many popular options, new products are constantly released, and formulations can change. Following a few simple guidelines will help you shop with confidence.
Read the Label
Always, always read the ingredients list. Manufacturers can change recipes without much fanfare, so checking the back of the package is the only way to be certain. Look for the non-vegan ingredients mentioned earlier.
Look for Certification
Many products now feature a vegan certification logo on their packaging. This is a clear indicator that the product is free of all animal-derived ingredients and has been officially verified.
Be Aware of Cross-Contamination
For those with severe allergies or strict vegan ethics, be mindful of cross-contamination. Some packages might carry a disclaimer that the product is made in a facility that also handles dairy or eggs. This is not an animal ingredient, but it's a matter of personal comfort.
Search Online for Vegan Lists
Reputable vegan websites and blogs often maintain updated lists of accidentally vegan candies and dedicated vegan brands. These can be a fantastic resource for discovering new treats.
Conclusion
Finding vegan candies has become easier than ever, thanks to increased consumer demand and more transparent manufacturing. From classic favorites like Sour Patch Kids and Skittles to specialty products from dedicated vegan companies like Cocomels and Go Max Go, the options for satisfying a sweet tooth are plentiful. The key is to be an informed consumer by understanding which hidden animal products to avoid and consistently reading labels. This mindfulness ensures you can enjoy a delicious treat that aligns with a plant-based, cruelty-free lifestyle. For more information, check out resources like the ChooseVeg blog from the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which provides numerous vegan shopping guides.
