Are Now And Laters Vegan?
When it comes to vegan diets, every ingredient matters. For those who enjoy sweets, the question of whether popular candies like Now and Laters are vegan is quite pertinent. Now and Laters are a type of fruit-flavored taffy-like candy that has been popular in the United States since its introduction in the 1960s. To determine if they are suitable for vegans, it’s essential to delve into the ingredients used in their production.
Understanding Veganism
Veganism is more than just a diet; it’s a lifestyle choice that excludes all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty, whether for food, clothing, or any other purpose. This means that vegans avoid consuming all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey, as well as products like gelatin and certain food additives derived from animals.
Ingredients in Now and Laters
The ingredients list is the first place to look when assessing whether a product is vegan. Typically, Now and Laters contain corn syrup, sugar, hydrogenated soybean oil, citric acid, and less than 2% of protein concentrate, salt, natural and artificial flavors, and coloring agents. At first glance, these ingredients might seem vegan-friendly as they are primarily derived from plant sources.
However, the inclusion of artificial colors and flavors can raise concerns. These components are often tested on animals, which might not align with strict vegan principles. Additionally, the source of sugar used in Now and Laters can also be a point of contention. Some sugar is processed using bone char from animals to achieve a whiter color. This processing method is not considered vegan, although it’s not always possible to determine the processing method used in the sugar found in specific products without additional information from the manufacturer.
Controversial Ingredients
Beyond the basic ingredients, the specific types of each component can also impact the vegan status of a candy. For instance, the natural flavors in Now and Laters could be derived from animal sources. The term “natural flavors” is quite broad and can include a variety of sources, not all of which are plant-based.
Another ingredient to consider is hydrogenated soybean oil. While soybean is a plant, the process of hydrogenation and the cultivation practices of soybeans (including the potential use of animal-derived fertilizers) might also be a concern for some vegans focused on the broader environmental and ethical impacts of their food choices.
Are Now and Laters Vegan?
Based on the ingredients listed, Now and Laters do not contain any overt animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin, which is commonly found in gummy candies. However, the potential use of bone char in sugar processing, the ambiguity surrounding natural flavors, and the use of artificial colors which may be tested on animals, make it difficult to classify Now and Laters as fully vegan-friendly.
For vegans who adhere strictly to avoiding all products with any possible animal involvement, Now and Laters might not be suitable. The uncertainty about sugar processing and natural flavors typically requires further investigation. Vegans might need to contact the manufacturer directly to get clarity on these issues.
Alternatives to Now and Laters
For those looking for guaranteed vegan-friendly candies, there are many alternatives available that are labeled as vegan. These products explicitly state that they do not contain animal-derived ingredients and often provide information about their sugar sources and flavorings. Brands that specialize in vegan candies are typically more transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes, making them a safer choice for vegans.
Additionally, looking for candies that are certified vegan by reputable organizations can also provide an extra layer of assurance. These certifications mean that the products have been scrutinized and meet strict vegan standards, not just in terms of ingredients but also in terms of processing and handling.
Choosing vegan-certified products is a straightforward way to enjoy sweets without compromising on ethical standards. It also supports businesses that are committed to cruelty-free practices and helps promote the availability of vegan options in the market.