Sneaky Non-Vegan Ingredients

Spotting non-vegan ingredients in food labels is daunting in the beginning

As a new vegan, you may love the variety of plant-based options available. However, it can be surprising to learn just how many foods, that seem vegan-friendly, are not actually free from animal-derived ingredients. Being aware of these hidden non-vegan ingredients is essential for staying committed to a plant-based lifestyle.

Never assume that something is vegan

The Importance of Being Informed

If you are new to veganism, wanting to make educated choices is completely understandable. Whether you are motivated by ethics, sustainability, or health, navigating product labels can be challenging. It’s easy to overlook non-vegan ingredients hidden in everyday products, especially in products that look "healthy" or are artisanal. Knowing what to avoid will empower you to make choices that reflect your values and dietary needs.

Sneaky Non-Vegan Ingredients

Here are some common non-vegan ingredients to keep an eye out for:

1. Lactic Acid

This ingredient can be confusing. While it can be derived from fermented plant materials, it may also come from milk. Without clear labelling, it’s safer to be cautious and check products carefully.

2. Gelatine

Gelatine is a common thickening agent made from the collagen of animals, often sourced from pigs or cows. You’ll find gelatine in products like gummy candies, marshmallows, and even some yogurts. A 2015 study revealed that 90% of gelatine products are derived from animal sources. Always check labels for gelatine or its derivatives to avoid it.

3. Casein

Casein is a milk protein found in dairy products. It can also be hidden in processed foods like protein bars and certain cheese alternatives. Look closely at ingredient lists to spot casein.

4. Honey

Though often perceived as a natural sweetener, honey is not vegan. It is produced by bees for the bees to eat, it's not a by-product for them. This raises ethical concerns about exploitation when you consider honey as steaking from the bee's kitchen. Instead, you might use alternatives like agave syrup or maple syrup, both of which provide sweetness without using animal products.

5. Carmine

Carmine, a dye made from crushed cochineal insects, is used to give colour to candies and yogurts. An estimated 7,500 cochineal insects are needed to produce just one pound of carmine dye, making its use especially concerning for vegans. If you spot carmine or cochineal on ingredient labels, steer clear.

6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s are essential for overall health, but not all sources are vegan. Fish oil is a common source; however, you can look for algal oil, a plant-based alternative. Studies have shown that algal oil can provide adequate levels of DHA and EPA omega-3s for vegans.

7. Certain Vitamins

Some vitamins, like B12, often come from animal sources. This is particularly common in fortified foods and supplements. Check the source of added vitamins to ensure they align with a plant-based diet. Vitamin D is another one, commonly sources from lanolin, the oil from sheep wool.

8. Natural Flavours

The term "natural flavours" can be a catch-all for many substances, including those derived from animals. This vague labelling can make it tricky to assess whether a product is truly vegan. When in doubt, choose brands known for their transparency.

9. Bone Char

Bone char is utilised in sugar refining processes and can impact the sugars in white and some brands of brown sugar. For a vegan-friendly option, look for brands specifically labelled as bone-char-free. Studies have shown that about 60% of conventional sugar in the U.S. may be refined using bone char.

10. Dairy Enzymes

Dairy enzymes find their way into many processed foods, including non-dairy creamers and some breads. Since these enzymes can be derived from animal products, it's best to verify the ingredient list carefully.

Sneaky Vegan Ingredients

Despite the concerns over these non-vegan ingredients, some may surprise you by being plant-based. Here are a few “sneaky” vegan-friendly ingredients:

1. Sucrose

This common sugar does not always have to be processed with bone char. While many brands do, there are many organic sugars and brands labelled as vegan that do not use bone char.

2. Glycerine

Glycerine can come from animal fats, but it can also be derived from vegetable oils. Check labels to determine the source; many brands now clearly indicate plant-based glycerine.

3. Pectin

This gelling agent found in jams and jellies primarily comes from fruits, especially citrus. Properly labelled pectin is a completely trustable ingredient.

4. Vegetable Shortening

Unlike some animal-based shortenings, various brands produce vegetable shortening that is entirely plant-based. Look for products specifically marked as "non-hydrogenated vegetable oils."

5. Lecithin

As an emulsifier, lecithin can come from soy or sunflower as well as animal sources. Check the product label - soy or sunflower lecithin is the vegan-friendly option.

6. Pure Maple Syrup

This sweetener, made from the sap of maple trees, is vegan. Just ensure it's labelled as pure to guarantee it hasn't been mixed with unwanted ingredients.

7. Vanilla Extract

When authentic, vanilla extract is derived from vanilla orchids and is fully plant-based. However, some artificial flavourings might derive from animals. Ensure you select pure vanilla extract.

8. Nuts and Seeds

Often mistakenly thought to be not vegan, nuts and seeds are essential components of a vegan diet. They provide beneficial nutrients and can be enjoyed without hesitation.

9. Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a robust plant-based alternative to dairy. It can enhance dairy-free desserts and works well in a variety of recipes, making it a useful pantry staple. It is also 100% necessary for a good chickpea curry (in my opinion).

10. Tomato Paste/Puree

Made from tomatoes, tomato paste is vegan-friendly and a common ingredient that can be used in countless recipes. Feel free to use it without concern.

Navigating the Vegan World

Understanding hidden (sneaky) non-vegan ingredients can be challenging, but it’s essential for gaining confidence and maintaining your vegan lifestyle. Learning what to look for will help you make choices that reflect your ethics while still enjoying a wide array of amazing foods. Product labels can sometimes be misleading, making knowledge your most effective tool against accidentally consuming animal-derived ingredients.

As you continue your plant-based journey, stay curious and attentive to labels. This awareness will empower you to make informed food choices. If (when) you do make a mistake, which is something that happens to all of us, just use it as an opportunity to learn and don't beat yourself up about it. Most important though, enjoy your adventures in the world of vegan food!

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