You know it’s autumn when everything turns up pumpkin spice. Unfortunately, identifying whether or not it’s all vegan is not a straightforward task — and that includes the Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte.
The difficulty largely arises from food brands often obscuring the nature and source of their ingredients.
However, this article will try to shed some light on the truth and provide you with the knowledge you need to support your compassionate, vegan lifestyle.
Is Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Vegan?
No, the Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice latte is not vegan. The ingredients that specifically make it non-vegan are nonfat milk and whipped cream, both of which are derived from animal sources and therefore are not compatible with a vegan diet.
Is Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Cruelty-Free?
Given the inclusion of dairy products in its recipe, the Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice latte cannot be considered cruelty-free. Dairy production involves the use of animals, and the industry is often criticized for its treatment of these animals.
What Is Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Made Of?
The Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice coffee drink has a rich array of ingredients that come together to create its distinctive taste. Here’s a breakdown of these ingredients:
- Milk
- Pumpkin Flavored Swirl Syrup
- Brewed espresso coffee
- Whipped cream
- Caramel Flavored Swirl Syrup
- Vanilla flavor
- Topping: sugar, cinnamon, cinnamon oil
Milk
Milk, an animal-derived product, is the base for the Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice latte. It’s non-vegan due to its origin from cows.
Pumpkin Flavored Swirl Syrup
Like Dunkin’ flavor shots, this pumpkin syrup provides a distinct pumpkin flavor. It contains several ingredients, including high fructose corn syrup, which is vegan because it is derived from corn. However, Dunkin’ flavor swirls contain condensed dairy milk, which is not vegan.
Brewed espresso coffee
Coffee is the backbone of any latte. As a plant product, it’s vegan.
Whipped cream
This ingredient, which tops the latte, is derived from cow’s milk, making it non-vegan.
Caramel Flavored Swirl Syrup
This syrup enhances the flavor of the latte. It contains ingredients like high fructose corn syrup and monoglycerides, which can be either vegan or non-vegan, depending on their source. Furthermore, this ingredient contains condensed dairy milk, a non-vegan ingredient.
Vanilla flavor
Vanilla flavor enhances the overall taste of the latte. It’s usually vegan, but it can sometimes contain non-vegan ingredients.
Topping: sugar, cinnamon, cinnamon oil
The topping gives the latte a sweet and spicy finish. Sugar can be vegan, but sometimes it’s processed using bone char, which isn’t vegan. Cinnamon and cinnamon oil are vegan.
Vegan Alternatives to Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice
While the Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte isn’t vegan, there are plenty of vegan alternatives that you can enjoy. They’re delicious, cruelty-free, and planet-friendly. These vegan alternatives can be found in various forms, such as coffee creamers, other beverages, and sweeteners. Here are a few examples:
- Vegan coffee creamers: You can find a variety of plant-based coffee creamers in the market, made from almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
- Vegan-friendly beverages: Consider trying the green tea, iced matcha latte, or apple cranberry refresher at Dunkin’ Donuts.
- Vegan sweeteners: Opt for brown sugar, cinnamon sugar, or pumpkin spice syrup that’s confirmed to be vegan.
- Make your own pumpkin latte at home! Here’s one from Nora Cooks.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of food and drink as a vegan can be challenging, especially when dealing with popular items like the Dunkin’ Donuts Pumpkin Spice Latte.
However, armed with the right knowledge and the willingness to ask questions, you can enjoy a diverse range of delicious and ethical food and drink choices.