8 food items you might think are vegan (and definitely aren’t)

Considering all things vegan, you are always on the lookout for which food items to pick. Even as simple as chewing gum would make you ask the question, “is it vegan?”

If you think navigating the vegan aisle in groceries is as easy as ditching beef burgers for a kale smoothie, think again. 

Vegan foods to avoid (since they’re not 100% vegan)

The labyrinth of food labels can get sneaky that even plant-based experts can get tricked. We’ll uncover the truth behind these sneaky foods masquerading as vegan.

1. Chewing gum

Before popping a piece of that minty goodness, ask yourself first, is chewing gum really vegan? While most parts of them are plant-based, there are some animal-based ingredients sneaked in.

For texture, gelatin is used — an ingredient derived from animal bones and ligaments. Other brands also use carmine for color — a red food coloring that comes from cochineal beetles. Real vegan options exist but you’ll have to pay close attention.

2. Pesto

Don’t get fooled by its green color, not all greens are pure plants. This green sauce can come laced with Parmesan cheese. Sure, vegan pesto exists, all basil-infused. You’ll just have to ensure a bottle of this sauce is the real plant-based deal.

3. Wine and beer

Not intending to be a party crasher but a Friday night chill with a glass of wine or a bottle of beer might not be your best choice if you’re vegetarian.

Isinglass, a clearing agent for some of these drinks, is derived from fish bladders. Other non-vegan players, like egg whites and casein from milk, are sometimes also present in these drinks.

4. Creamer

Plant-based creamers might be flashing their non-dairy labels but most of them have less than 2 percent of sodium caseinate — a milk protein.

5. Veggie burgers

Assuming that all veggie burgers are actually vegan can totally ambush your diet. Most of them contain dairy or eggs. Reading the labels is your lifeline — use them.

6. Worcestershire sauce

A perfect umami bomb? Surely, but watch out as the classic recipe includes anchovies. Though vegan versions are available and waving the cruelty-free flag.

7. Honey

Is it vegan or not? A status that’s still a hive of debate in the vegan community since they are derived from bees. Most vegans give it a pass.

You may also like: Is Honey Vegan and Can I Eat It?

8. Jellies and jams

By default, these spreads are vegan given that they are fruit-derived. But hold up before spreading some on your toast. Before, we all get to enjoy the jiggly texture with the use of pectin — a fruit derivative.

However, today’s mass-produced versions have switched to using gelatin instead. A no-go for vegans, gelatin comes from animals.

So is chewing gum vegan? You know it. Armed with these details and a keen eye for checking the labels, you now have the knowledge to dodge those non-vegan curveballs.