Identifying whether or not Nutella is vegan can be a challenging task.
This difficulty often arises due to manufacturers obscuring the nature and source of their ingredients.
This article aims to unveil the truth and support you, our young and passionate reader, in your commendable vegan lifestyle.
Is Nutella Vegan?
No, Nutella is not vegan.
The ingredients that specifically make Nutella non-vegan is skimmed milk powder. Skimmed milk powder is derived from dairy, which is an animal product.
Is Nutella Cruelty-Free?
No, Nutella is not cruelty-free.
The production of palm oil, one of its main ingredients, has led to habitat destruction, particularly in rainforests, which threatens the existence of various animal species.
What Is Nutella Made Of?
Nutella, a popular chocolate hazelnut spread, is composed of the following ingredients:
- Sugar
- Palm oil
- Hazelnuts
- Skimmed milk powder
- Fat-reduced cocoa
- Emulsifier: lecithin (soya)
- Vanillin
Sugar
Derived from sugarcane or sugar beets, sugar adds sweetness to the spread. It’s vegan, but concerns arise regarding the bone char sometimes used in its refining process, though this is primarily in the US, and no Nutella products are made in the US, though some are manufactured in Canada and Mexico.
Palm Oil
Extracted from the fruit of oil palms, palm oil gives Nutella its creamy texture. However, its production is linked to environmental issues, making it a controversial ingredient for many vegans.
Hazelnuts
These are raw hazelnuts that add a distinct flavor to the spread. They’re vegan and a primary component in many nut butters.
Skimmed Milk Powder
Derived from dairy milk, this ingredient is not vegan. It provides a creamy texture to the spread.
Fat-reduced Cocoa
This is cocoa powder with reduced fat content. It’s derived from the cocoa bean and is vegan.
Emulsifier: Lecithin (Soya)
Derived from soybeans, lecithin ensures a smooth consistency in the spread. It’s vegan.
Vanillin
An artificial flavor derived from lignin or guaiacol, vanillin mimics the taste of vanilla extract. It’s vegan.
Vegan Alternatives to Nutella
For those seeking vegan chocolate hazelnut spreads, there are numerous alternatives available:
- Homemade vegan hazelnut spread: You can make your own vegan chocolate hazelnut spread using ingredients like hazelnut butter, organic cane sugar, cocoa powder, and coconut oil.
- Vegan chocolate spreads: Brands like “Nutiva Vegan Hazelnut Spread” offer dairy-free hazelnut spread options.
- Nut butters: Almond butter and other nut butters can be a great base for creating your vegan spreads.
- Vegan chocolate: Dark chocolate, when combined with hazelnuts and sweetened with maple syrup or organic coconut sugar, can be a delightful spread.
Conclusion
Nutella, while delicious, is not vegan due to its inclusion of skimmed milk powder and the environmental concerns surrounding palm oil, an ingredient common in many food brands.
However, with the rise of veganism, there are plenty of vegan alternatives available for those who wish to enjoy a creamy, chocolatey spread without compromising their values.
Whether you opt for store-bought vegan nutella alternatives from different food brands or decide to make your own vegan chocolate hazelnut spread, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings in an ethical manner.