It can be a challenge identifying whether or not a product like Jordan almonds is vegan.
This difficulty often stems from manufacturers concealing the nature and source of their ingredients.
But fear not! This article is here to unravel the mystery and support you in your quest to uphold a vegan lifestyle.
Are Jordan Almonds Vegan?
No, standard Jordan almonds are not considered vegan. These sweet candies, often used as wedding favors or fun treats at parties, contain certain ingredients that conflict with a vegan lifestyle. The main culprits are confectioner’s glaze and artificial colors.
Confectioner’s glaze, used to give the almonds their shiny, hard candy shell, is made from secretions of the lac bug, making it a clear violation of vegan principles. Additionally, some artificial colors are tested on animals or can contain animal derivatives, making them non-vegan as well.
Are Jordan Almonds Cruelty-Free?
Unfortunately, Jordan almonds are not cruelty-free. The confectioner’s glaze used in these almonds involves the exploitation of the lac bug. While no direct harm is caused to the bugs in the collection process, it’s a form of animal use that vegans and cruelty-free advocates prefer to avoid.
What Are Jordan Almonds Made Of?
These Italian confetti almonds, also known as Jordan almonds, are often served in fancy pouches or burlap bags as party favors, or displayed in candy buffets. Here’s a list of the common ingredients:
- California almonds
- Sugar
- Less than 2% of artificial flavors
- Confectioner’s glaze
- Carnauba wax
- Colors (yellow 5 lake, blue 2 lake, red 40 lake, blue 1 lake)
California almonds
California almonds are the finest almonds used in Jordan almonds. They come from almond trees in California, are completely plant based, and hence, vegan friendly.
Sugar
Sugar is a sweetening agent derived from sugarcane or sugar beets. While sugar itself is plant based, the refining process may involve bone char, an animal product. Not all sugar is processed this way, and it is difficult to determine from product labels.
Artificial flavors
Artificial flavors in Jordan almonds are a broad category that could come from various sources, plant or animal-based. Without further details from the manufacturer, it’s difficult to ascertain their vegan status.
Confectioner’s glaze
This is the ingredient responsible for the shiny polish on the almonds. As mentioned before, it comes from the secretions of the lac bug and is not considered vegan.
Carnauba wax
Carnauba wax, used for the hard coating of the almonds, is plant based. It is derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm and is vegan.
Colors
Artificial colors can have problematic origins. Some may be derived from animals or tested on animals, making them potentially non-vegan.
Vegan Alternatives to Jordan Almonds
Luckily, if you’re planning an upcoming party, there are vegan-friendly alternatives to Jordan almonds. Consider these delicious options for your trail mixes, party favors, or as a stand-alone treat:
- Vegan chocolates
- Roasted nuts and seeds
- Fruit candies with natural colors and flavors
- Vegan gummy candies
For example, the Delish Brand provides a range of vegan candies that could serve as excellent substitutes.
Conclusion
In the quest for vegan and cruelty-free living, it’s essential to scrutinize even the sweetest details, like whether your Jordan almonds are vegan. Sadly, traditional Jordan almonds, a popular food choice for special occasions, contain non-vegan and non-cruelty-free ingredients, such as confectioner’s glaze and potentially problematic artificial colors.
The good news is that there are alternative vegan candies available from various brands to suit your ethical and dietary needs. So the next time you are picking out treats for a baby shower, a wedding, or just to indulge, remember to make choices that align with your commitment to animals and the planet. Remember, every serving size of vegan-friendly treats contributes to a kinder world.