Are In-N-Out Fries Vegan and Cruelty-Free?

August 26, 2023

Identifying whether or not a product like In-N-Out fries is vegan can be a difficult task. 

This difficulty often arises because manufacturers are not always transparent about the nature and source of their ingredients. 

Fear not, this article aims to uncover the truth and support you in your compassionate, vegan lifestyle.

Are In-N-Out Fries Vegan?

Yes, based on the ingredients list, In-N-Out french fries are vegan. 

The fries contain only two ingredients: potatoes and sunflower oil. Both of these ingredients are plant-based and do not come from animal sources.

However, if you’re vegan you may not want to get the fries “Animal Style.” First of all, Animal Style Fries at In-N-Out Burger contain In-N-Out spread, which contains eggs, as well as cheese, which automatically makes them non-vegan. Also, I called In-N-Out to check, and the grilled onions in the Animal Style Fries are cooked on the same grills as the beef.

So while the fries at In-N-Out Burger are definitely vegan, don’t get them Animal Style. 

Are In-N-Out Fries Cruelty-Free?

Yes, In-N-Out french fries are cruelty-free. They are made from potatoes and sunflower oil, both of which are plant-based ingredients that do not involve the exploitation of animals.

What Are In-N-Out Fries Made Of?

Wondering what goes into those deep-fried slices of deliciousness at the West Coast’s favorite fast-food restaurant? Here’s a quick rundown:

  • Potatoes
  • Sunflower oil

Not very complicated.

Potatoes

Potatoes are root vegetables that come from the earth. Most people think potatoes come from Ireland or Idaho, but they’re actually native to South America! They serve as the main component of the fries, providing the starchy goodness that we all love. They are vegan and cruelty-free.

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is a plant-based oil extracted from sunflower seeds. It’s used to deep-fry the potatoes, giving them that crispy texture. This oil is vegan and cruelty-free.

Vegan Alternatives to In-N-Out Fries

There may not be many vegan options at In-N-Out other than french fries, but vegan options are growing everywhere. There are plenty of vegan-friendly alternatives out there. Here are some categories and specific examples:

  • Veggie burgers: In-N-Out doesn’t offer a veggie burger or vegan burger yet, but brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Burger offer vegan burgers that can replace the traditional In-N-Out burger.
  • Vegan cheese: Instead of melted American cheese, try vegan cheese brands like Daiya Daiya or Follow Your Heart.
  • Vegan sauces: Opt for only vegan-friendly sauces like vegan mayo or plant-based ketchup.
  • Vegan fast-food restaurants: Places like Veggie Grill offer a full range of vegan food, including vegan fries. If you do go to Veggie Grill, be sure to try the szechuan green beans. They’re amazing.

Conclusion

Navigating the fast food landscape as a vegan can be challenging, but it’s entirely possible. 

In-N-Out french fries are both vegan and cruelty-free, making them a suitable choice for those who are concerned about animal welfare and the planet. But keep in mind, Animal Style fries, which include grilled onions, cheese, and In-N-Out spread, are not vegan. It’s right there in the name, thank goodness, so it’s easy to remember. 

With a growing number of vegan-friendly alternatives, living a compassionate lifestyle has never been easier.