Twizzlers are one of America’s most iconic candies, loved by many for their chewy texture and sweet taste. But, if you follow a vegan lifestyle, you may be wondering, "Are Twizzlers vegan?" This popular snack is enjoyed by millions, but could it be hiding animal derived ingredients that make it unsuitable for vegans?
In this blog we discuss about Twizzlers and their ingredients to determine whether they are vegan or not.
What Are Twizzlers?
Twizzlers have been a staple of American candy culture since they were first created in 1845 by the American candy company Y&S Candies (now part of Hershey). Known for their unique chewy texture and strawberry flavor, Twizzlers quickly became a fan favorite. Over time, the brand expanded, introducing other varieties such as Twists, Nibs, and Filled Twists.
Types of Twizzlers:
- Original Strawberry Twizzlers
- Twists
- Nibs
- Filled Twists (Cherry, Strawberry, etc.)
While the most iconic variety is the Original Strawberry Twizzlers, the company has created a wide range of flavors and variations. However, not all of these are created equal when it comes to vegan standards.
Key Ingredients in Twizzlers
Here are the main ingredients in Twizzlers, based on their official website and packaging:
- Corn Syrup
- Enriched Wheat Flour
- Palm Oil
- Artificial Flavors and Colors (like Red 40)
- Glycerin (in some varieties)
Are Twizzlers Vegan?
Now that we’ve examined the ingredients, let’s determine whether Twizzlers are truly vegan.
Original Strawberry Twizzlers
Twizzlers Original Strawberry flavor does not contain any obvious animal derived ingredients like gelatin or dairy. However, there are still concerns about palm oil and artificial colors like Red 40, which might be processed using animal testing methods. For those who are okay with these ethical concerns, Original Twizzlers can be considered technically vegan. But for those following a strict vegan lifestyle, this might be a dealbreaker.
Other Flavors and Varieties
For other Twizzlers varieties like Twists or Filled Twists, it’s important to look closely at the ingredients. Some varieties contain milk derived ingredients or other additives that could disqualify them from being considered vegan. Always check the label.
Highlighting questionable ingredients:
- Palm Oil: Many vegans avoid palm oil due to its environmental impact.
- Artificial Colors (Red 40): Red 40 is often tested on animals in some regions, which might not align with vegan ethics.
Are Twizzlers Vegetarian?
For vegetarians, the answer may be slightly different. While vegetarians do not consume meat, fish, or poultry, they still consume animal by products like eggs, dairy, and honey. Since Twizzlers do not contain these ingredients, they are technically vegetarian.
The distinction between vegan and vegetarian lies in the avoidance of animal products. For vegans, it’s not just about avoiding meat but also avoiding any product or by product derived from animals. For vegetarians, this is less of a concern.
Twizzlers vs. Other Candy Brands (Vegan Options)
When comparing Twizzlers to other licorice style candies, several brands offer certified vegan alternatives that are free from animal derived ingredients and more ethically produced.
Vegan Alternatives:
- YumEarth Organic Licorice – A certified organic and vegan-friendly candy.
- Panda Licorice – Known for being 100% vegan and made with natural ingredients.
- SmartSweets Red Twists – These are a healthier, vegan alternative to Twizzlers, offering a low sugar option.
These brands ensure that their products are free from any animal-derived ingredients and are often produced with ethical practices in mind.
FAQs
Do Twizzlers contain gelatin?
No, Twizzlers do not contain gelatin. This makes them a more suitable option for both vegetarians and vegans compared to other chewy candies.
Are Red 40 and other dyes vegan?
While Red 40 is derived from coal tar, which is a non animal source, its testing on animals in some regions may disqualify it for strict vegans.
Is palm oil vegan?
Palm oil itself is plant based, but its production often raises ethical concerns due to environmental damage. Some vegans avoid it because of the sustainability issues surrounding its farming.
What candy is 100% vegan?
There are several vegan certified candies available, such as:
- YumEarth Organic Licorice
- Panda Licorice
- SmartSweets Red Twists
