Identifying whether or not a product like chocolate chip Clif Bars is vegan can be tricky.
This is due to the fact that manufacturers can sometimes obscure the nature and sources of their ingredients.
But fear not — because we are here to peel back the curtain, help you uncover the truth, and support you on your vegan journey.
Are Chocolate Chip Clif Bars Vegan?
Yes. Chocolate Chip Clif Bars are vegan. Not only does the chocolate include no dairy, but because 76% of everything Clif uses in its products is certified organic, it’s unlikely that the sugar is processed with bone char.
Are Chocolate Chip Clif Bars Cruelty-Free?
Yes! Clif Bars are cruelty-free. In the context of being cruelty-free, that is, not testing on animals or causing harm to animals in the production process, Chocolate Chip Clif Bars do meet the criteria.
What Are Chocolate Chip Clif Bars Made Of?
Chocolate Chip Clif Bars are a popular, on-the-go energy bar consumed by individuals around the world. They are known for their rich, satisfying taste and energy-boosting properties. Below is a list of the key ingredients that make up the recipe of Chocolate Chip Clif Bars:
- Organic brown rice syrup
- Organic rolled oats
- Soy protein isolate
- Cane sugar
- Unsweetened chocolate
- Organic soy flour
- Organic oat fiber
- Organic high oleic sunflower oil
- Cocoa butter
- Barley malt extract
- Sea salt
- Natural flavors
Organic Brown Rice Syrup
Organic brown rice syrup is a sweetener derived from brown rice. It is created by breaking down the starches in the rice into simple sugars and then boiling them down into a syrup. This ingredient provides the main source of sweetness in the Chocolate Chip Clif Bars. Because it is plant-based, it is considered vegan.
Organic Rolled Oats
Organic rolled oats are whole grain oats that have been husked, steamed, and then rolled into flat flakes. They are a primary source of complex carbohydrates in the bars, providing long-lasting energy. They originate from various regions, including the U.S., Canada, and Europe. As a plant-based ingredient, they are vegan.
Soy Protein Isolate
Soy protein isolate is a highly refined or purified form of soy protein with a minimum protein content of 90%. It’s derived from defatted soy flour with most of the fats and carbohydrates removed. It provides a substantial amount of protein in the bars. This ingredient is vegan as it is derived from soybeans.
Cane Sugar
Cane sugar is a type of sugar produced from sugarcane plants. It provides additional sweetness to the Clif Bars.
While sugarcane is a plant and should make this ingredient vegan, it’s important to note that some cane sugar is processed using bone char from animals, which would make it non-vegan.
However, Clif Bar & Company has stated that they use vegan methods for processing their sugar.
Unsweetened Chocolate
Unsweetened chocolate is pure chocolate liquor, composed of ground cocoa beans. It contributes to the rich, chocolate flavor of the bars. It is plant-based and considered vegan unless processed in facilities that also process milk, which can lead to cross-contamination.
Organic Soy Flour
Organic soy flour is made from roasted soybeans that have been ground into a fine powder. It enhances the protein content and improves the texture of the bars. Being a plant-based product, it is vegan.
Organic Oat Fiber
Organic oat fiber is derived from the outermost bran or husk of the oat grain. It contributes to the dietary fiber content of the Clif Bars, aiding in digestion. As a plant-based ingredient, it is vegan.
Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil
Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil is a type of sunflower oil rich in monounsaturated fats. It serves as a healthier fat source in the bars and helps maintain their texture. This ingredient is plant based and vegan.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa Butter is a pale-yellow, edible fat extracted from the cocoa bean. It provides a creamy texture and enhances the chocolate flavor of the bars. It is plant based and vegan.
Barley Malt Extract
Barley malt extract is a sweetener derived from sprouted barley. It also lends a unique flavor to the bars. Barley malt extract is vegan because it comes from barley, a type of grain.
Sea Salt
Sea salt is salt produced from the evaporation of seawater. It is used to enhance the flavors in the bars. Sea salt is vegan.
Natural Flavors
Natural flavors refer to the flavors derived from natural sources such as plants and spices. They are used to enhance the taste of the bars. The source of these natural flavors could potentially be non-vegan, but Clif Bars has confirmed that it only uses vegan natural flavors in its products.
Vegan Alternatives to Chocolate Chip Clif Bars
Looking for some equally delicious and 100% vegan alternatives to your favorite Chocolate Chip Clif Bars? Let’s take a look at some great options:
- Lara Bars: A popular choice, especially their Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip flavor. Get them here.
- GoMacro Bars: These bars, particularly the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip flavor, are loved by many for their wholesome ingredients. Get them here.
- Nugo Organic Bars: These bars come in a variety of flavors and are completely vegan. Get them here.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of vegan food and brands can be challenging, especially with companies being vague about their ingredients. While Chocolate Chip Clif Bars are cruelty-free, they cannot be classified as vegan due to the ambiguity surrounding the source of certain ingredients like natural flavors.
Fortunately, there are plenty of vegan alternatives to these Clif Bars, ensuring that you have a wide range of choices that align with your ethical beliefs. Always remember, your effort in caring for the planet and its inhabitants makes a significant difference, and every small change contributes to a better world.