Identifying whether or not a product is vegan can be a complex task, made even more challenging by manufacturers sometimes being elusive about the nature and source of their ingredients.
This, however, should not deter us from our mission.
This article is dedicated to unveiling the truth, supporting you on your vegan journey, and helping you make the most informed choices.
Is Jarritos Vegan?
We regret to report that Jarritos, one of the world’s most beloved soft drinks, may not be fully vegan friendly. This conclusion is primarily based on the inclusion of “natural flavors” in its ingredients.
“Natural flavors” is a broad term that could include animal-derived products, making it a source of concern for many vegans.
While the exact constituents of the “natural flavors” in Jarritos aren’t published by the company, we can’t assure they are 100% plant derived. This lack of transparency is one reason why many vegans may choose to avoid this product.
Is Jarritos Cruelty-Free?
On the surface, it might seem that Jarritos is cruelty-free, as it doesn’t contain any explicit meat, poultry, or other direct animal products. However, the uncertainty over “natural flavors” means that we can’t be entirely sure that no animals were harmed in making this soft drink.
What Is Jarritos Made Of?
Before we delve into each ingredient’s details, let’s provide an overview of what a bottle of Jarritos typically consists of:
- Carbonated water
- Sugar
- Natural flavors
- Sodium benzoate (as a preservative)
- Citric acid
- Food coloring
Carbonated water
This is just water infused with carbon dioxide under pressure, which gives the drink its fizz. It’s vegan and derived from non-animal sources.
Sugar
Sugar is derived from plants — usually sugar cane or beets. However, in some countries like the United States, bone char (charred animal bones) is occasionally used to bleach and filter cane sugar, which is a concern for most vegans. Jarritos is sold internationally and it’s not clear where they source their sugar or how it’s processed.
Natural flavors
These are derived from plants or animal products. As mentioned earlier, the exact source of these flavors in Jarritos isn’t clearly communicated, making it a gray area for vegans.
Sodium benzoate
This is a type of salt used as a preservative in many foods and beverages. It is usually synthesized in a lab and is considered vegan friendly.
Citric acid
Citric acid occurs naturally in citrus fruits and is used to give sodas their tangy flavor. It’s vegan as it’s derived from fruits.
Food coloring
These can be sourced from plants, animals, or could be synthesized. The exact sources used by Jarritos have not been disclosed. Food coloring is often tested on animals, so it’s likely not cruelty-free.
Vegan Alternatives to Jarritos
Missing the unique flavors of Jarritos? Don’t worry, there are plenty of vegan-friendly soft drinks that you can enjoy without compromising your ethical choices. Consider options such as:
- Coca Cola: While still a soda, many of its flavors are known to be vegan in most parts of the world.
- Fresh fruit juices: These are natural, healthy, and undeniably vegan. You can make them at home or buy from brands that label their products as vegan.
- Sparkling water: Sparkling water, like that from Spindrift, contains only water and fruit juices, no sugar, no additives. And it’s delicious.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of veganism can sometimes feel like a challenging puzzle. In the case of Jarritos, while it doesn’t explicitly contain any animal products, the “natural flavors” and potentially the sugar present roadblocks to its acceptance by many vegans.
Our hopes are that companies like Jarritos become more transparent with their ingredients, making the choice easier for those who want to consume foods that align with their ethical values.
Until then, there are plenty of other vegan-friendly beverages out there for you to enjoy, and with each sip, you’ll know you’re doing your part to save our world.