Vegan vs Non-Vegan Candy Ingredients Explained

Discover the differences between vegan and non-vegan candy ingredients. Learn how to identify vegan candy options and make informed choices for your sweet tooth while exploring the world of confectionery.

Danielle Evergreen

10/3/2024

Vegan vs Non-Vegan Candy Ingredient Guide

Navigating the world of candy can be confusing for vegans and those seeking artificial dye-free, plant-based alternatives. While many assume that most sweets are vegan-friendly, the reality is that numerous common ingredients in candy production are derived from animal sources. This article aims to shed light on these often-overlooked non-vegan components, providing you with the knowledge to make informed choices about your confectionery consumption. From gelatin in gummy bears to carmine in red candies, we'll explore the origins of these ingredients, where you can find them and plant-based alternatives that can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising ethical considerations.

This list may also help our family members and friends better comprehend our decision to eat a vegan diet and / or feed or not feed our kids certain foods.

Guide:

Common Non-Vegan Ingredients in Candy
Common Vegan Ingredients in Candy
Potentially Controversial Ingredients
Bonus Potentially Controversial Ingredients
Tips for Identifying Vegan Candy

Common Non-Vegan Ingredients in Candy

Gelatin:
- Origin: Derived from animal collagen, usually from cows or pigs
- Common in: Gummy candies, marshmallows, some chewy candies
- Vegan alternatives: Agar-agar, carrageenan, pectin, starches
Carmine / Cochineal Extract (Red #4):
- Origin: Made from crushed cochineal insects
- Common in: Red or pink colored candies
- Vegan alternatives: Beet juice, berry juices, synthetic food coloring
Confectioner’s Glaze / Shellac:
- Origin: Resin secreted by the female lac bug
- Common in: Candy coating for a shiny appearance
- Vegan alternatives: Zein (corn protein), cellulose-based glazes
Beeswax:
- Origin: Produced by honey bees
- Common in: Candy coatings, some gummies
- Vegan alternatives: Carnauba wax, candelilla wax, plant-based waxes
Honey:
- Origin: Produced by honey bees
- Common in: Candy as a sweetener
- Vegan alternatives: Beet sugar, coconut sugar, organic cane sugar
Milk / Whey / Butter / Butterfat / Casein:
- Origin: Dairy (cows, goats, etc.)
- Common in: Milk chocolate, caramel, toffee, some fillings
- Vegan alternatives: Plant-based milks, coconut oil, vegetable oils
Egg Albumen:
- Origin: Egg whites
- Common in: Some marshmallows, nougat
- Vegan alternatives: Aquafaba (chickpea brine), plant proteins

Common Vegan Ingredients in Candy

Sugar:
- Note: Some sugars are processed with bone char; look for organic or unrefined sugars
- Vegan options: Beet sugar, coconut sugar, organic cane sugar
Corn Syrup:
- Derived from corn starch
- Common in many candies for texture and sweetness
Pectin:
- Derived from fruits
- Used as a gelling agent in gummies and jellies
Agar-Agar:
- Derived from seaweed
- Used as a gelatin substitute
Tapioca Starch:
- Derived from cassava root
- Used as a thickener and in gummy candies
Natural Flavors:
- Can be derived from plants or synthesized
- Always check with manufacturer to confirm vegan status
Plant-Based Food Coloring:
- Derived from fruits, vegetables, and other plants
- Examples: Beetroot (red), turmeric (yellow), spirulina (blue/green)
Soy Lecithin:
- Derived from soybeans
- Used as an emulsifier in chocolates and other candies

Potentially Controversial Ingredients

Refined Sugar:
- Can be processed with bone char
- Alternatives: Organic sugar, beet sugar, coconut sugar
Natural Flavors:
- Can be derived from animal or plant sources
- Always check with the manufacturer for vegan certification
Glycerin:
- Can be derived from animal fats or plant oils
- Vegan if derived from plant sources
L-cysteine:
- Can be derived from animal hair or synthesized
- Used as a dough conditioner in some soft candies

Bonus Potentially Controversial Ingredients

High Fructose Corn Syrup:
- Adds an unnatural amount of fructose in the body
- Can cause health problems if eaten in excess
Artificial Dyes:
- Enhances or adds color to candy
- Can cause or exacerbate neurobehavioral problems
- New names on labels:
  - FD&C Blue No. 1 / Blue No. 1 / Brilliant Blue FCF / acid blue 9 / E133
  - FD&C Blue No. 2 / Blue No. 2 / Indigotine / Indigo Carmine / E132
  - FD&C Green No. 3 / Green No. 3 / Fast Green FCF / E143
  - Orange B
  - Citrus Red No. 2 / Citrus Red 2 / C.I. Solvent Red 80 / C.I. 12156
  - FD&C Red No. 3 / Red No. 3 / Erythrosine / E127
  - FD&C Red No. 40 / Red No. 40 / Allura Red AC / E129
  - FD&C Yellow No. 5 / Yellow No. 5 / Tartrazine / E102
  - FD&C Yellow No. 6 / Yellow No. 6 / Sunset Yellow FCF / E110
Palm Oil:
- Used to make candies creamy, add shine or as a preservative
- Unethically sourced it can ruin rainforest habitats of endangered species

Tips for Identifying Vegan Candy

Look for vegan certification labels - Certified Vegan, V-Label
Check ingredient lists carefully - ‘contains’ section on packaging often says ingredients like milk and eggs, sometimes milk is not listed though. Check for ingredients not under the ‘contains’ section like honey, beeswax, gelatin, confectioner’s glaze and carmine.
Contact manufacturers for clarity on ambiguous ingredients - I prefer email as it’s a more direct connection to the humans that actually know what's going on and can find the correct information.
Be aware of cross-contamination warnings for those with severe allergies.
Research brands known for their certified vegan offerings.

Conclusion

For those committed to a vegan lifestyle or simply looking to reduce their consumption of animal products, staying informed about these ingredients is crucial. By carefully reading labels, looking for vegan certifications and supporting brands that prioritize plant-based ingredients, consumers can enjoy sweet treats that align with their values.

As the food industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative, vegan-friendly candies hitting the shelves. Until then, armed with the knowledge of common non-vegan ingredients and their alternatives, individuals can make choices that satisfy both their taste buds and their ethical standards. Remember, being an informed consumer is the first step towards creating positive change in the candy industry and beyond.

📢 Note: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Know, I only recommend products I personally trust and use. Thank you!

Welcome!

Thanks for joining me here at Danielle Evergreen! I have been on a plant-based journey for 10 years now and it is my pleasure to research and bring you content on various topics. I am excited to create a community of people on similar journeys! Whether you're a long-time vegan dieter, interested in dye-free living or just dipping your toes in these waters, I am glad you are here!

- Danielle Evergreen