Whether you’ve got the ultimate sweet tooth, or you’re asking for a plant-based friend; here’s all you need to know on how vegan sweets are made, and which are the best vegan sweets brands in the UK.
Strawberry laces, fruit pastilles, those pink and blue bottles… Can’t you just taste them all now? We remember how far 50p could get us in the corner shop after school, but are our childhood favourites vegan, and if not, why not?
Vegan sweets are made by using plant-based alternatives to gelatine, like agar agar, carrageenan and vega gel. Plus lots of fruits, sugars and syrups!
Are sweets vegan?
From gelatine and beeswax to dairy-milk powder, there can be lots to look out for when it comes to the confectionary aisle and keeping our choices vegan. But because nature’s pantry is so big (and there are some clever chefs out there), we’ve still got plenty to choose from.
So here we get to say a big yes to so many of our sugary friends! Many retro brands and newbies alike are vegan-friendly. From the Haribo rainbow range and Starbursts, to Candy Kittens and a massive M&S own brand range, there are so many easy ways to get a plant-powered sugar kick.
What is gelatine?
A big recurring ingredient in non-vegan sweets is gelatine. Gelatine acts as a gelling agent in the sweet making process and raises its melting temperature for a more durable shelf-life.
Gelatine is generally made from unused parts of the meat production industry. As it’s usually derived from pig and cow skin and bone, it’s definitely never vegan friendly!
It may be what gave jelly it’s distinctive wobble, but it’s now so widely, and easily, replaced in favour of plant-based alternatives.
Vegan alternatives to gelatin
A popular alternative is Agar-Agar, especially in professional kitchens as it has a much higher melting point. So less chance of a collapsing pudding on its way out to service! It’s pulled from red algae and just like gelatine, it’s famed for its absence of flavour, colour and smell.
Have a look here to see our rundown on other popular vegan gelatine alternatives.
Best vegan sweets
Now, the sweet stuff. If you’d like to see some of our other favourite vegan sweet brands in the UK, check out Laura’s ultimate guide to plant-based sweets! What to buy and why we love them so much.
If you’ve got any other favourite plant-based sweets we should know about, let us know in the comments below.
Greetings, confectionery connoisseurs! As a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of vegan sweets and plant-based delights, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge to unravel the mysteries behind crafting these delectable treats. My passion transcends the casual consumer, delving into the intricate processes, ingredients, and brands that define the world of vegan confections.
Now, let's dissect the article's core concepts:
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Vegan Sweets Composition: The article rightly emphasizes the essence of vegan sweets, shedding light on the meticulous process of replacing conventional gelatin with plant-based alternatives. The use of agar agar, carrageenan, and vega gel, coupled with an array of fruits, sugars, and syrups, forms the bedrock of vegan sweet creation. This blend not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also aligns with ethical and plant-based dietary preferences.
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Identification of Non-Vegan Ingredients: The article addresses the challenges in navigating the confectionery aisle as a conscious consumer. Ingredients such as gelatine, beeswax, and dairy-milk powder, prevalent in traditional sweets, pose obstacles for those seeking vegan options. This awareness encourages readers to scrutinize labels and make informed choices, fostering a deeper understanding of veganism beyond dietary boundaries.
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Gelatine and Its Origins: Gelatine emerges as a central antagonist in the vegan confectionery narrative. The article exposes its non-vegan roots, sourced from discarded parts of the meat industry, particularly pig and cow skin and bone. This revelation serves as a catalyst for the exploration of plant-based alternatives, urging a departure from the gelatine-induced era of wobbly sweets.
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Vegan Alternatives to Gelatine: Enter the heroes of the vegan sweet revolution—alternatives to gelatine. Agar-Agar takes the spotlight, hailed not only for its plant-based origin (derived from red algae) but also for its superior attributes, including a higher melting point. This substitution not only aligns with ethical considerations but also ensures the structural integrity of the confections, a crucial factor in the art of sweet-making.
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Best Vegan Sweets Brands in the UK: The article crescendos with a celebration of vegan-friendly brands, both nostalgic and contemporary. From the iconic Haribo rainbow range to the beloved Starbursts, and the trendy Candy Kittens to the extensive M&S own brand range, the options for a plant-powered sugar kick are abundant. This comprehensive list invites readers to explore and indulge in a variety of vegan sweet offerings, showcasing the thriving landscape of compassionate confectionery.
In conclusion, the article serves as a delectable roadmap for both seasoned vegans and curious newcomers, unraveling the intricacies of vegan sweet creation, demystifying non-vegan ingredients, and inviting readers to savor the diverse array of plant-based delights available in the UK. If there are any additional plant-based sweet gems you hold dear, do share them in the comments below, and let the sweet symphony continue!
