Identifying whether Original Pringles are vegan can be a difficult task.
This difficulty arises because manufacturers often hide the nature and source of their ingredients.
Fear not, for this article aims to uncover the truth and support you in your compassionate, vegan lifestyle.
Are Original Pringles Vegan?
No, Original Pringles are not vegan. The ingredient that specifically makes it non-vegan is mono- and diglycerides, which can be derived from animal sources.
Are Original Pringles Cruelty-Free?
Yes. None of the ingredients in Pringles Original flavor potato chips are tested on animals.
What Are Original Pringles Made Of?
Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of what makes up these potato-based snacks:
- Dried potatoes
- Vegetable oil (corn, cottonseed, high oleic soybean, and/or sunflower oil)
- Degerminated yellow corn flour
- Cornstarch
- Rice flour
- Maltodextrin
- Mono- and diglycerides
- Salt
- Wheat starch
Dried Potatoes
Dried potatoes are simply dehydrated potatoes. They are plant based and vegan friendly, serving as the main component of the chip.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oils are derived from plants like corn, cottonseed, and soybean. They are vegan and are used to fry the chips.
Degerminated Yellow Corn Flour
This is corn flour that has had the germ removed. It is plant based and plays a role in the chip’s texture.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is derived from the endosperm of the corn kernel and is vegan. It’s used as a thickening agent.
Rice Flour
Rice flour is made from ground rice and is vegan. It’s used to give the chips their unique texture.
Maltodextrin
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate usually derived from corn or wheat. It is vegan and is used as a filler or thickener.
Mono- and Diglycerides
These are fatty acids that can be either plant or animal-derived. Because the source is not specified, we cannot consider this ingredient vegan.
Salt
Salt is a mineral and is vegan. It’s used for flavoring.
Wheat Starch
Wheat starch is derived from wheat and is vegan. It’s used as a thickening agent.
Vegan Alternatives to Original Pringles
If you’re looking for cruelty-free and vegan-friendly alternatives to Original Pringles, you’re in luck! Here are some categories and specific products that serve as great substitutes:
- Vegan chips: Kettle Brand’s Sea Salt Potato Chips
- Rice cakes: Lundberg’s Organic Brown Rice Cakes.
- Soy sauce potato crisps: These from Calbee
Conclusion
If you’ve ever wondered if Original Pringles are vegan food, now you know. Many other Pringles flavors are not vegan, either, thanks to additional ingredients like sour cream and cheese.
Navigating the world of snacks while adhering to a vegan diet can be tricky, but it’s crucial for those who care about animals and the planet.
However, there are plenty of delicious and ethical alternative brands out there for you to enjoy. Keep fighting the good fight for a kinder world!