🍬 The Ultimate Guide to Vegan Candies (Accidentally Vegan & More!)
🍬 The Ultimate Guide to Vegan Candies (You'll Be Surprised!) 🍬
Following a vegan lifestyle does not mean you have to give up your sweet tooth. However, the candy aisle can be a tricky place. Many candies contain hidden animal products. Learning what to look for is the key to satisfying your cravings.
The great news is, a surprising number of classic, mainstream candies are "accidentally vegan." This means they are vegan by ingredients, even if they are not marketed that way. There are also many brands dedicated to making delicious vegan candies.
This guide will show you what to look for on the label. We will also provide a list of popular vegan-friendly treats. Let's explore the sweet side of being vegan! ✅
🤔 What Common Non-Vegan Ingredients Should You Look for on a Label?
Becoming a vegan means becoming a master label-reader. In candy, there are a few common ingredients derived from animals. Knowing these will help you quickly identify which vegan candies are safe to eat.
- Gelatin: This is a gelling agent made from animal collagen. It is found in most gummy candies, like gummy bears, and marshmallows.
- Carmine: This is a red food coloring. It is made from crushed cochineal insects. Look for it in red, pink, or purple candies.
- Shellac (Confectioner's Glaze): This is used to give candies a shiny coating. It is a resin secreted by the female lac bug.
- Dairy: Milk, whey, casein, and butter are common in chocolates and caramels.
✅ What Are Some Popular "Accidentally Vegan" Candies?
You will be happy to know that many of your favorite candies are vegan. They do not contain any of the ingredients listed above. Here are some of the most popular mainstream vegan candies. Note: Formulations can change, so always double-check the ingredient list!
What about chewy and fruity candies?
This category has the most vegan options. Many popular fruity candies are gelatin-free. Great choices include:
- Sour Patch Kids
- Swedish Fish
- Skittles (original fruit flavor)
- Twizzlers (strawberry twists)
- Dots
Are there any vegan hard candies?
Yes, most simple hard candies are vegan. They are typically made from sugar, corn syrup, and flavorings. Some popular options are:
- Jolly Ranchers (hard candies)
- Dum-Dums Lollipops
- Smarties (in the USA)
What about chocolates?
Most milk chocolate is not vegan because it contains dairy. However, many high-quality dark chocolates are vegan. Look for a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher. Always check the label to make sure there is no milk fat or whey added.
🌱 What Are Some Brands That Specialize in Vegan Candies?
Beyond the "accidentally vegan" finds, there is a growing market for dedicated vegan sweets. These brands make it easy to find high-quality treats. They are a guaranteed safe bet for vegan candies.
YumEarth is a popular brand. They make organic and allergy-friendly candies. Many of their products, like their gummy bears and lollipops, are gelatin-free and certified vegan. They are a great alternative to traditional gummy snacks.
For chocolate lovers, look for brands like Enjoy Life. They specialize in allergy-friendly chocolate bars and chips. They are free from dairy and other common allergens. Justin's Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups are another fantastic vegan option.
The world of vegan candies is vast and delicious. By learning to spot a few key ingredients, you can confidently navigate the candy aisle. You can also explore the many amazing brands that are creating new and exciting vegan treats. 🍬