Starburst candies are a chewy, fruity treat loved by many, but if you’re living a vegan lifestyle, you might wonder: Are Starburst vegan? In this blog, we discuss their ingredients, why they may not be vegan friendly, and some plant based alternatives to enjoy.
What Is Veganism and Why Ingredients Matter?
Veganism is more than a diet; it’s a lifestyle choice aimed at avoiding the use of animal products or by products in food and everyday items. Many candies that seem plant based on the surface may still contain hidden animal derived ingredients. Common non vegan additives include:
- Gelatin: Made from animal collagen, often used to create chewy textures.
- Shellac: A glazing agent derived from insects, used for shiny candy coatings.
- Bone char processed sugar: Some sugar is filtered through animal bone char.
- Beeswax: Used for a glossy finish or to keep candies from sticking together.
Knowing these terms helps you spot non vegan candy options before you buy.
Starburst Ingredients Breakdown
Starburst candies are primarily made from sugar, corn syrup, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, fruit juice concentrate, citric acid, and artificial flavors and colors. However, many varieties contain gelatin, making them unsuitable for vegans. Other factors to consider include:
- Confectioner’s glaze (shellac): Used in some products, making them non-vegan.
- Artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1): While synthetic, they are sometimes tested on animals.
- Unspecified natural flavors: These could potentially be animal-derived.
These ingredients raise concerns for those strictly following a vegan diet.
Starburst Variants: Gummies, Minis, Jelly Beans, and Airs
Not all Starburst products are made the same. Here’s what you need to know:
- Starburst Airs & Gummies: Typically contain gelatin, making them non vegan.
- Starburst Minis: Free from gelatin but may contain confectioner’s glaze or other additives unsuitable for vegans.
- Other varieties: Such as jelly beans, gum, and swirlers, often include shellac or beeswax.
In short, most mainstream Starburst products are not vegan-friendly due to one or more animal-based additives.
How to Identify Vegan Friendly Starburst Products?
If you want to double check before consuming:
- Read ingredient labels carefully: Look out for gelatin, shellac, beeswax, and ambiguous “natural flavors.”
- Look for certified vegan or plant based labels: These products are verified free from animal products.
- Avoid products with confectioner’s glaze: This often signals insect derived ingredients.
Because ingredients may change over time, always check the packaging before buying.
Ethical and Health Considerations
Beyond avoiding animal products, many plant based eaters avoid candies with:
- Artificial colors and flavors: Potentially tested on animals.
- Refined sugars: May use bone char processing.
- Palm oil: Linked to deforestation and wildlife habitat destruction.
Choosing certified vegan and organic brands supports cruelty-free and eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
Conclusion
So, are Starburst vegan? In most cases, no. Many varieties contain gelatin, shellac, or other non-vegan additives. While a few products may not include obvious animal ingredients, cross-contamination and unclear sugar sources make them questionable for strict vegans. The best solution is to read labels carefully and opt for trusted vegan-certified candy alternatives.
FAQs
1.Are all Starburst candies vegan friendly?
No, most varieties contain gelatin or shellac.
2. Do Starbursts contain gelatin?
Yes, many versions use gelatin for a chewy texture.
3. Are Starburst Minis vegan?
They are gelatin free but may have confectioner’s glaze.
4. What makes Starburst non-vegan?
Ingredients like gelatin, shellac, beeswax, and bone-char are processed from sugar.
5. Do Starbursts contain dairy or eggs?
No, but they still include other animal derived additives.
6. How can I tell if a candy is vegan?
Check the ingredient list and look for vegan certification.
7. Why do vegans avoid certain sugars in candy?
Some sugars are filtered using animal bone char, making them non-vegan.
