Deciphering whether a product is vegan can be a challenging task.
This complexity often stems from manufacturers concealing the true nature and source of their ingredients.
But fret not, this article is here to uncover the truth and support you, our environmentally-conscious reader, in your vegan lifestyle.
Are Jet Puffed Marshmallows Vegan?
Regrettably, Kraft’s Jet Puffed Marshmallows are not vegan. The primary culprits that prevent Jet Puffed Marshmallows from earning their vegan status are gelatin and natural flavors.
Gelatin, a common ingredient in mainstream marshmallows like Jet Puffed, is derived from animal bones, and specifically in marshmallows, often pig bones.
Natural flavors, on the other hand, may be derived from plant or animal sources, making them a potential landmine for vegans. Because manufacturers are not required to disclose the exact source of these flavors, it can be challenging to determine if they are animal-derived ingredients.
Are Jet Puffed Marshmallows Cruelty-Free?
Unfortunately, Jet Puffed Marshmallows cannot be considered cruelty-free. The inclusion of gelatin, derived from animal bones, means the product involves the harm and slaughter of animals.
While the marshmallows may not contain obvious ingredients like egg whites or meat, the process of obtaining gelatin involves animal suffering and exploitation, contradicting the principles of a cruelty-free lifestyle.
What Are Jet Puffed Marshmallows Made Of?
Jet Puffed Marshmallows are composed of the following ingredients:
- Corn syrup
- Sugar
- Dextrose
- Modified cornstarch
- Water
- Gelatin
- Tetrasodium pyrophosphate
- Natural and artificial flavor
- Blue 1
Corn syrup
Corn syrup is a sweetener derived from cornstarch, and it is a primary ingredient in most store-bought marshmallows. It is vegan because it is plant based.
Sugar
Sugar is derived from sugarcane or sugar beets. While it is a plant-based ingredient, it can sometimes be processed with animal bone char to achieve its white color.
However, it’s worth noting that not all sugar is processed this way, and it is difficult to determine the processing method used in commercially produced products like Jet Puffed Marshmallows.
Gelatin
As mentioned earlier, gelatin is derived from the collagen in animal bones and is the main ingredient that disqualifies Jet Puffed Marshmallows from being vegan or vegetarian marshmallows.
Other Ingredients
The remaining ingredients, including modified cornstarch, water, tetrasodium pyrophosphate, natural and artificial flavors, and Blue 1, also have potential concerns for vegans. For example, natural and artificial flavors often contain animal-derived ingredients.
Vegan Alternatives to Jet Puffed Marshmallows
Embracing a vegan lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to give up sweet treats like marshmallows. Here are some vegan marshmallow brands that are both delicious and compassionate choices:
Dandies Marshmallows are a popular choice in the vegan community. They are free from animal-derived ingredients and use tapioca syrup and cane sugar for sweetness.
Yummallo Vegan Marshmallows are another great option, made with gluten-free and non-GMO ingredients.
Goodland Farms also offers vegan-friendly marshmallows made with natural flavors and cane sugar, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your favorite food.
Conclusion
To sum up, Jet Puffed Marshmallows are neither vegan or cruelty-free due to the inclusion of gelatin and the potential use of animal-derived natural flavors.
But don’t let this get you down. There are plenty of vegan marshmallow brands out there that offer fluffy treats without the need for animal-derived ingredients.
Remember, every choice we make can contribute to the health of our planet and all its inhabitants.