When it comes to vegan-friendly snacks, the world seems to be divided into two groups. There are those who opt for fruits and veggies, citing their health benefits and sustainability, and then there are those who believe there’s nothing like biting into a fluffy, soft marshmallow. If you belong in the latter category, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are plenty of brands of marshmallows that cater to vegans and non-vegans alike.
One of the most popular brands of vegan marshmallows is Dandies. Not only are these marshmallows free from gelatin (an animal-derived ingredient), but they’re also gluten-free and made with non-GMO ingredients. They come in different sizes, from mini marshmallows to jumbo ones, and are perfect for s’mores, hot chocolate, and anything else you can think of. Plus, they come in fun flavors like pumpkin spice and peppermint, so you can switch up your snacking routine whenever you feel like it.
Another great brand of vegan marshmallows is Smashmallow. These marshmallows are made with organic cane sugar and natural colors and flavors, and are also free from gelatin and gluten. What sets Smashmallow apart from other brands is their flavors, which range from fruity (strawberry, raspberry, passion fruit) to sweet and salty (cinnamon churro, toasted coconut pineapple). They’re perfect for snacking on their own, but can also be used in recipes like rice krispie treats or rocky road ice cream. With so many flavors to choose from, you’ll never get bored of eating marshmallows again.
What are vegan marshmallows?
Marshmallows, a favorite treat for many, are typically made using gelatin which is derived from animal bones and other by-products. However, with the rise of veganism and plant-based diets, many brands have released marshmallows that are free from animal products and therefore suitable for vegans.
Vegan marshmallows are made using plant-based ingredients such as tapioca starch, carrageenan, and agar-agar. These ingredients, which are derived from seaweed, help provide the same texture and consistency as gelatin-based marshmallows.
It is important to note that not all marshmallows labeled as “vegetarian” or “gelatin-free” are necessarily vegan. Some may still contain dairy or other animal-derived ingredients, so it is essential to check the ingredients list of any product before purchasing it.
Are all marshmallows vegan?
Marshmallows are a popular treat known for their fluffy texture and sweet taste. Most people assume that marshmallows are made with simple ingredients and are therefore vegan-friendly. However, this is not always the case. In fact, many brands of marshmallows contain animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin, which is made from animal bones, skin, and connective tissue.
List of vegan marshmallows
- Dandies: This brand is completely vegan and offers a variety of flavors including vanilla, chocolate, and pumpkin.
- Ricemellow Creme: Made with brown rice syrup and soy protein, this marshmallow fluff is a great alternative for vegans who love s’mores.
- Ananda’s: This UK-based brand offers delicious vegan marshmallows in flavors such as vanilla, raspberry, and even salted caramel.
The issue with gelatin in marshmallows
The use of gelatin in marshmallows is a common issue for vegans. Gelatin is a popular binding agent in many foods, but it is made by boiling animal bones, skin, and connective tissue. Clearly, this is not a vegan-friendly ingredient. Gelatin is added to marshmallows to give them their signature texture and shape.
Unfortunately, many marshmallow brands do not use vegan-friendly alternatives to gelatin. This makes it difficult for vegans to enjoy marshmallows without compromising their ethics.
Vegan alternatives to gelatin in marshmallows
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Agar-Agar | This seaweed-based ingredient is a great alternative to gelatin. It is flavorless and can be used in the same quantity as gelatin to make vegan marshmallows. |
| Carrageenan | Carrageenan is a thickener and stabilizer made from seaweed. It is a common ingredient in many vegan foods and is a great alternative to gelatin in marshmallows. |
| Pectin | Pectin is a natural ingredient that is derived from fruits. It is often used in jams and jellies but can also be used as a substitute for gelatin in vegan marshmallows. |
It is important to note that not all brands of marshmallows use these vegan-friendly alternatives. However, as more people adopt a vegan lifestyle, there is a growing demand for vegan marshmallow options. This means that more brands are beginning to offer vegan alternatives to traditional marshmallows.
In conclusion, not all marshmallows are vegan-friendly due to the use of animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin. However, there are many vegan brands of marshmallows available. Additionally, there are several vegan-friendly alternatives to gelatin that can be used in the production of marshmallows. As the demand for vegan products continues to grow, we can expect to see more vegan marshmallow options in the future.
How are vegan marshmallows made?
Traditional marshmallows are made with gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen. However, vegan marshmallows use alternative ingredients that mimic the texture and flavor of gelatin.
- Agar agar: This is a thickener derived from seaweed. It’s a common ingredient in vegan marshmallows, as it can create the same texture as gelatin. Agar agar is flavorless, so it won’t affect the taste of the marshmallows.
- Starch: Potato or tapioca starch can be used to thicken vegan marshmallows. This helps create the texture and stability that’s needed for marshmallows to hold their shape.
- Plant-based proteins: Some vegan marshmallows use proteins from sources like rice or soy, which can give the marshmallows a chewy texture that’s similar to gelatin.
Other ingredients used in vegan marshmallows include corn syrup, vanilla extract, and sugar. These are also commonly used in traditional marshmallows.
Manufacturers of vegan marshmallows use different combinations of ingredients to create their own unique recipes. Some companies may use a combination of agar agar and starch, while others may use a blend of plant-based proteins with starch. Some may also use different sweeteners or flavorings to create distinctive flavors.
| Brand | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Dandies | Tapioca syrup, cane sugar, filtered water, tapioca starch, carrageenan, soy protein, natural vanilla flavor |
| Trader Joes | Tapioca syrup, sugar, filtered water, tapioca starch, carrageenan, soy protein, vanilla extract, carob bean gum |
| Suzanne’s Specialties | Brown rice syrup, cane sugar, filtered water, brown rice protein, natural vanilla flavor, agar agar, xanthan gum |
Overall, vegan marshmallows are made with a combination of alternative thickeners, plant-based proteins, and sweeteners that create the same texture and flavor as traditional marshmallows. With the growing popularity of veganism and plant-based diets, there are now many brands of vegan marshmallows available on the market.
Top Vegan Marshmallow Brands
If you’re a vegan, you might think that marshmallows are off the menu. After all, they are made with gelatin, which is derived from animal bones, skin, and connective tissue. But vegan marshmallows do exist! Here are some of the top brands:
- Dandies: This company makes vegan marshmallows that taste just like the real thing. They are made with tapioca syrup and vegan-friendly carrageenan instead of gelatin.
- Ricemellow: This brand makes vegan marshmallow creme, which is perfect for smearing on toast or dipping fruit into. It is made with brown rice syrup, which gives it a caramel-like flavor.
- Trader Joe’s: If you have a Trader Joe’s near you, check out their vegan marshmallows. They are perfect for roasting over a campfire.
Another option for vegans is to make their own marshmallows at home. This can be a fun and rewarding project, and there are many recipes available online. Just be sure to use a vegan-friendly gelatin substitute, such as agar agar or carrageenan.
The Health Benefits of Vegan Marshmallows
Of course, just because marshmallows are vegan doesn’t mean they are healthy. They are still loaded with sugar and calories, so they should be eaten in moderation. However, there are some benefits to choosing vegan marshmallows over traditional ones.
Vegan marshmallows are free from gelatin, which has been linked to joint pain and other health problems in some people. They are also free from cholesterol and saturated fat, which are found in animal-based foods.
Where to Buy Vegan Marshmallows
You can find vegan marshmallows at many health food stores, as well as online. Some stores that carry them include Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Trader Joe’s. If you can’t find them in your area, try searching for them online. There are many retailers that specialize in vegan foods and products.
| Brand Name | Ingredients | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Dandies | Tapioca Syrup, Cane Sugar, Filtered Water, Tapioca Starch, Carrageenan, Soy Protein, Natural Vanilla Flavor | In stores and online |
| Ricemellow | Brown Rice Syrup, Soy Protein, Natural Vanilla Flavor | Online |
| Trader Joe’s | Corn Syrup, Sugar, Modified Corn Starch, Dextrose, Water, Gelatin Substitute (Carrageenan, Gum Tragacanth), Natural Flavor, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate | In stores |
As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to vegan marshmallows. Whether you buy them at the store or make them at home, you can enjoy this classic treat without compromising your vegan lifestyle.
Vegan marshmallow recipes
If you’re a vegan who craves for marshmallows, then you’re in luck. You don’t have to give up enjoying those fluffy, sweet treats. While not all marshmallows are vegan as they contain gelatin, there are brands of marshmallows that are either vegan or plant-based and don’t use gelatin as an ingredient.
However, if you prefer making your own vegan marshmallows from scratch, here are some recipes to try out:
- Vegan Marshmallows Recipe by Minimalist Baker – This recipe only requires 8 ingredients, including agar powder, aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas), and organic cane sugar. It takes about 1 hour to make and produces 96 marshmallows. Perfect for s’mores or hot cocoa.
- Homemade Vegan Marshmallows Recipe by The Spruce Eats – This gelatin-free marshmallow recipe uses agar powder, corn syrup, sugar, and vanilla extract. The recipe creates a fluffy and delicate marshmallow that can hold its shape when toasted. It’s also easy to prepare and takes 30 minutes to cook.
- Vegan Aquafaba Marshmallows Recipe by Loving It Vegan – This recipe only requires six ingredients, including aquafaba, corn syrup, sugar, agar, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract. It creates melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows that are perfect for roasting or dipping. The recipe is easy to follow, and the marshmallows can be stored for up to two weeks.
If you prefer an alternative to the traditional recipes, there are also several non-traditional marshmallow recipes available online that you can try. These recipes include vegan chocolate-covered marshmallows, vegan peppermint marshmallows, vegan strawberry-flavored marshmallows, and more.
Whether you prefer to buy vegan marshmallows or make them from scratch, there’s a range of options available to suit your tastes. Just make sure to read the ingredients list carefully if buying pre-packaged marshmallows, as not all brands are vegan-friendly.
Can vegans eat marshmallows made with gelatin substitutes?
Vegans typically can’t eat marshmallows made with gelatin, as gelatin is derived from animal collagen and is not vegan-friendly. However, there are certain substitutes for gelatin that are vegan-friendly. These include:
- Agar agar – derived from seaweed
- Carrageenan – derived from red seaweed
- Konjac powder – derived from konjac yam
Marshmallows made with these gelatin substitutes are often marketed as vegan marshmallows, and can be found at health food stores and online retailers. These vegan marshmallows can be used in the same way as traditional marshmallows in recipes such as s’mores and hot cocoa.
If you’re not sure if a marshmallow contains gelatin or a substitute, be sure to check the ingredients list or contact the manufacturer.
Here is a table outlining some popular marshmallow brands and whether or not they are vegan:
| Brand | Vegan? |
|---|---|
| Dandies | Yes |
| Trader Joe’s | Yes |
| Campfire | No |
| Kraft Jet-Puffed | No |
As you can see, not all marshmallow brands are vegan-friendly. If you’re following a vegan diet or lifestyle, be sure to do your research or look for the vegan label on packaging before consuming marshmallows.
The ethical implications of vegan marshmallows
Choosing vegan marshmallows can have a positive impact on the environment, human health, and animal welfare. Here are seven ethical implications of choosing vegan marshmallows.
- Reduced environmental impact: Marshmallows made with gelatin, a common ingredient in conventional marshmallows, are made from animal bones and skins. The production of gelatin requires a lot of water and energy and contributes to waste and pollution. In contrast, vegan marshmallows can be made with plant-based ingredients that are more sustainable and eco-friendly.
- No harm to animals: In addition to the environmental impact, conventional marshmallows made with gelatin involve the exploitation of animals. By choosing vegan marshmallows, consumers can avoid contributing to animal agriculture, which has been linked to animal suffering and negative health impacts.
- Better for human health: Vegan marshmallows may be a healthier option than conventional marshmallows, which often contain high levels of sugar, corn syrup, and other ingredients that can contribute to health problems like diabetes and obesity.
- Ethical consumer choice: Choosing vegan marshmallows can be seen as a statement about one’s values and ethics. By choosing to support companies that prioritize sustainability, animal welfare, and human health, consumers can make a positive impact on the world and inspire others to do the same.
- Promoting alternative options: By choosing vegan marshmallows, consumers can help promote the availability and demand for plant-based food options. This can help further the development of more sustainable and ethical industries that prioritize the environment, animal welfare, and human health.
- Cultivating mindfulness: By being mindful about the food we consume and the impact it has on the world, we can cultivate a greater sense of awareness, appreciation, and compassion for the environment, animals, and ourselves.
- Supporting innovative companies: Many innovative companies are creating high-quality, delicious vegan marshmallows using innovative techniques and plant-based ingredients. By supporting these companies, consumers can help drive innovation and promote a more sustainable and ethical industry.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Marshmallows
Q: Are all marshmallows not vegan?
A: Unfortunately, most commercial marshmallows contain gelatin which is an animal byproduct. Therefore, most marshmallows are not vegan.
Q: What is gelatin?
A: Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. It’s often used as a thickening or gelling agent in foods.
Q: Can vegans eat marshmallows at all?
A: Yes, there are some brands of marshmallows that are vegan. They are made with vegan-friendly ingredients and do not contain gelatin.
Q: What are vegan marshmallows made of?
A: Vegan marshmallows are typically made of plant-based ingredients like tapioca syrup, beet sugar, and carrageenan instead of gelatin.
Q: What are some brands of vegan marshmallows?
A: Some popular brands of vegan marshmallows include Dandies, Trader Joe’s, and Sarah’s Sweet Hearts.
Q: Where can I buy vegan marshmallows?
A: Vegan marshmallows can often be found in health food stores or specialty grocery stores. They can also be purchased online from retailers like Amazon.
Q: Are vegan marshmallows gluten-free?
A: Not all vegan marshmallows are gluten-free, so it’s important to check the label before purchasing.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read about vegan marshmallows! We hope that this article has helped answer some of your questions about these sweet treats. Remember to always check the labels and ingredients to ensure that the marshmallows you’re purchasing are vegan and meet your dietary needs. Don’t forget to visit us again for more informative articles!