Is Starburst Vegan?
Starburst is a widely loved candy, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and chewy texture. Its popularity spans across generations, making it a favorite treat for many. However, for those adhering to a plant-based diet, determining whether a candy-like Starburst is vegan is crucial. If you’re following a vegan diet, you might wonder, “Is Starburst vegan?” The answer depends on where you are. In the UK, Starburst is generally considered vegan, but in the USA, most varieties contain gelatin, which is derived from animal products, making them non-vegan. This means that while some versions might be safe for vegans, others definitely aren’t, so it’s essential to check the ingredients.
What are starburst?
Starburst is a globally recognized fruit-flavored candy, first introduced in the UK in 1960 under the name “Opal Fruits.” It quickly became popular for its chewy texture and intense, tangy flavors. Over time, it expanded to various international markets, including the USA, where it was rebranded as “Starburst.” The candy is available in a wide range of fruity flavors, each piece individually wrapped, making it convenient for on-the-go snacking and sharing. Its vibrant colors and bold taste have made Starburst a beloved treat across generations.
Ingredients of Starburst
- Sugar
- Corn syrup
- Hydrogenated palm kernel oil
- Fruit juice concentrates
- Citric acid
- Artificial flavors
- Artificial colors (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1)
- Gelatin (found in the USA version, making it non-vegan)
- Lecithin (varies by region)
- Modified corn starch (used in some versions)
Potential Non-Vegan Ingredients in Starburst
1. Gelatin: Gelatin is derived from animal collagen, usually sourced from the bones, skin, and connective tissues of pigs or cows. Since it comes from animals, it is not vegan.
2. Confectioner’s Glaze (Shellac): Confectioner’s glaze, also known as shellac, is made from the secretions of the lac bug. This ingredient is used to give candies a shiny coating. Since it is an animal-derived product, it is not vegan.
3. Natural Flavors: “Natural flavors” can be derived from both plant and animal sources. Without specific clarification from the manufacturer, there’s a risk that these flavors could contain animal-derived ingredients.
4. Carmine (in some variations): Carmine is a red pigment derived from crushed cochineal insects. It is used to give a red or pink color to some candies. Since it comes from insects, it is not vegan.
5. Beeswax (in some variations): Beeswax is produced by honeybees and is used in some candies as a coating or to add shine. Since it is an animal product, it is not vegan.
6. Palm Oil: While palm oil itself is plant-derived, its production is linked to significant environmental and ethical concerns, including deforestation and harm to wildlife. For these reasons, some vegans opt to avoid palm oil.
Exceptions & Alternatives
While most Starburst products in the USA contain non-vegan ingredients like gelatin, there are some exceptions. For instance, Starburst Minis and Starburst Jelly Beans are often cited as being gelatin-free, making them potentially vegan-friendly. However, these products may still contain other questionable ingredients, such as confectioner’s glaze or natural flavors derived from animal sources. It’s always advisable to check the labels carefully or contact the manufacturer directly to ensure that the specific product meets vegan standards.
Starburst in the UK
Starburst candies in the UK are confirmed to be vegan-friendly, as they do not contain animal-derived ingredients like gelatin, unlike the US version. However, they do include palm oil, which raises ethical concerns due to its association with deforestation and environmental harm. While the product itself is vegan, some vegans may choose to avoid it because of these sustainability issues. It’s also important to check for other variations, like Starburst Jelly Beans, which may contain non-vegan ingredients such as beeswax.
Starburst is a globally recognized candy loved for its fruity flavors and chewy texture. While it enjoys popularity worldwide, its vegan status varies by region. In the UK, Starburst is generally considered vegan, free from animal-derived ingredients like gelatin. However, it contains palm oil, raising ethical concerns for some. In the USA, most Starburst varieties are non-vegan due to the presence of gelatin. Some exceptions, like Starburst Minis, maybe gelatin-free but still require careful label checking for other non-vegan ingredients. Always verify the ingredients before consuming.
