Deciphering whether a product like marshmallow fluff is vegan can be quite a challenge.
The task is made difficult because manufacturers often shroud the true nature and source of their ingredients.
Fear not, this article is here to unravel the mystery and support you in your quest to lead a vegan lifestyle.
Is Marshmallow Fluff Vegan?
No. Unfortunately, Marshmallow Fluff is not vegan. The ingredients that particularly prevent it from being vegan are egg whites and sugar.
Marshmallow Fluff, much like traditional marshmallows, typically uses gelatin or egg whites to achieve its unique fluffy texture. However, in the case of Marshmallow Fluff, it uses egg whites which come from chickens, and hence it is not considered vegan.
Furthermore, Marshmallow Fluff contains sugar, which, in the US, is often processed through bone char, the ground-up bones of animals.
However, unlike marshmallows that contain gelatin, Marshmallow Fluff is vegetarian, since it doesn’t contain gelatin, so there’s that. Doesn’t help vegans, though.
Is Marshmallow Fluff Cruelty-Free?
Yes, according to the definition of “cruelty-free,” Marshmallow Fluff is cruelty-free. None of the ingredients in Marshmallow Fluff are tested on animals.
What Is Marshmallow Fluff Made Of?
Marshmallow Fluff is a spreadable marshmallow confection that is creamy, sweet, and versatile. It can be used in a variety of sweet treats, from classic fluffernutter sandwiches to delightful dessert toppings.
The ingredients of Marshmallow Fluff may vary slightly when brands seek to mimic the product, but the core ingredients of the Marshmallow Fluff brand of marshmallow spread include the following:
- Corn syrup
- Sugar
- Dried egg whites
- Artificial flavor
Corn Syrup
Corn syrup is a sweetening agent derived from cornstarch. It is made through a process of breaking down cornstarch into individual glucose molecules to create a thick, sweet syrup.
This ingredient contributes to the sweetness and smooth consistency of Marshmallow Fluff. While corn syrup is plant based, the concern around its vegan status arises from the potential use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in its production.
Sugar
Sugar is a sweetener derived mainly from sugarcane or sugar beet. In Marshmallow Fluff, it adds to the sweetness and helps achieve the desired texture.
However, the vegan status of sugar can sometimes be a topic of debate. This is because some sugars, particularly those from cane, can be processed using bone char (from animal bones) to achieve a whiter color.
It’s worth noting that not all sugar is processed this way, but it can be challenging to determine the processing method used for the sugar in specific products.
Dried Egg Whites
Dried egg whites are a form of dehydrated eggs. In Marshmallow Fluff, they serve as a binding agent, helping to give the spread its unique fluffy texture. They’re made by removing the yolk and water from eggs, then drying the remaining egg white substance. This ingredient is not vegan because it comes directly from eggs, which are animal products.
Artificial Flavor
Artificial flavors are chemically synthesized flavors designed to mimic natural flavors. The specific artificial flavor used in Marshmallow Fluff could vary, but it’s generally used to enhance the product’s overall taste.
The vegan status of artificial flavors can be ambiguous, as their origins can be either plant-based or animal-based, or they may be entirely synthetic.
In many cases, the specific origin of an artificial flavor isn’t disclosed on product packaging, making it challenging for vegans to determine its acceptability.
Vegan Alternatives to Marshmallow Fluff
If you’re a vegan craving the sweet confectionary delight of marshmallow fluff, don’t despair! There are several vegan marshmallow brands out there that cater to your needs. You can even make your own vegan marshmallow fluff at home with a homemade recipe.
- Vegan marshmallow brands: Brands making vegan marshmallows include Dandies and Trader Joe’s.
- DIY Vegan Marshmallow Fluff: Use a combination of aquafaba (the cooking liquid from white beans), cream of tartar, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, xanthan gum, and vanilla extract. With a candy thermometer and a bit of patience, you can create your own marshmallow creme that rivals the stretchy texture of the original.
These vegan marshmallow brands and the DIY vegan marshmallow cream recipe are great for sweet potato casserole, fluffernutter sandwiches, or simply on top of some gluten-free graham crackers.
Conclusion
While Marshmallow Fluff and traditional marshmallows typically aren’t vegan or cruelty-free due to the use of egg whites, there are plenty of food alternatives on the vegan market.
Whether you buy from vegan brands or whip up your own vegan marshmallow creme, you can enjoy the fluffy, sweet delight without compromising your values.
Remember, every small step you take in living a vegan lifestyle counts in making our planet healthier and kinder. Keep exploring vegan alternatives, and never lose your appetite for doing the right thing!