Are Impossible Nuggets Vegan and Cruelty-Free?

July 25, 2023

Deciphering the vegan-status of a product can sometimes feel like solving a jigsaw puzzle, and it’s largely because manufacturers can be enigmatic about the true nature and source of their ingredients. 

This article aims to solve the mystery surrounding Impossible Foods’ Impossible Nuggets, arming you, a committed vegan, with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions that align with your values.

Are Impossible Nuggets Vegan?

Yes, Impossible Nuggets are vegan.

These plant based chicken nuggets from Impossible Foods are made entirely from plant-based ingredients, meaning no animal products or by-products are included. 

Some of the specific ingredients that confirm the vegan status of this product include soy protein concentrate, potato starch, food starch modified, wheat gluten, yellow corn flour, and sunflower oil.

Are Impossible Nuggets Cruelty-Free?

Yes, Impossible Nuggets are cruelty-free.

Cruelty-free products do not involve any form of animal testing or harm, and since Impossible Nuggets are made from plants, no animals are harmed in the process. The vegan chicken nuggets are primarily made of soy protein, a plant-based protein that does not involve any form of animal exploitation.

What Are Impossible Nuggets Made Of?

Before we delve into the vegan alternatives to Impossible Nuggets, let’s take a detailed look at what goes into these savory, golden brown crispy nuggets:

  • Soy protein concentrate
  • Sunflower oil
  • Food starch modified
  • Wheat gluten
  • Potato starch
  • Yellow corn flour

Soy protein concentrate

Soy protein concentrate is a high-quality plant-based protein derived from soybeans. It contributes to the meaty bite of Impossible Nuggets, giving them a similar texture to traditional chicken nuggets.

Sunflower oil

Extracted from sunflower seeds, this oil is entirely plant based and adds a rich flavor to the nuggets while also ensuring a golden brown crust when cooked in an air fryer.

Modified food starch 

Modified food starch, often sourced from corn, potato, or wheat, adds to the nugget’s texture and structure. It’s vegan friendly and helps the nuggets maintain their shape.

Wheat gluten

Wheat gluten is a plant-based protein derived from wheat. It gives the nuggets a chewy texture that mimics the feel of regular chicken nuggets.

Potato starch

Potato starch, made from plants, naturally, is used in the golden brown crispy breading to provide the nuggets with a crispy coating.

Yellow corn flour

Derived from dried corn, yellow corn flour is vegan and is used in the breading to give it a golden brown color and crispy texture.

Vegan Alternatives to Impossible Nuggets

While Impossible Nuggets are a great vegan option for those craving a meaty bite, there are many other vegan chicken nuggets on the market. If you can’t get your hands on some Impossible Nuggets, try some of these:

Conclusion

As our journey through the ingredients list reveals, Impossible Nuggets are indeed vegan and cruelty-free. They successfully emulate the savory flavor and texture of the most consumed meat products without compromising vegan values. 

Impossible brand Chicken Nuggets represent a step forward in sustainable food alternatives, showing that delicious food and concern for the planet don’t have to be mutually exclusive. 

So next time you’re in the grocery stores, why not try these Impossible Nuggets for a sustainable, vegan-friendly meal?