Determining whether a product like Papa John’s crust is vegan or not can be an intricate puzzle.
The challenge often lies in the lack of transparency from manufacturers about the nature and source of their ingredients.
But worry not, this article is here to unveil the truth and support you in your ethical vegan journey.
Is Papa John’s Crust Vegan?
No, Papa John’s Original Hand-Tossed Crust is not vegan.
The crust contains sugar, and Papa John’s does not disclose the type of sugar used. Since some sugar is often processed with bone char, an animal-derived substance, the crust cannot be considered vegan.
Is Papa John’s Crust Cruelty-Free?
No, Papa John’s Crust is cruelty-free. Both sugar and soybean oil are quite frequently produced using GMO (genetically modified organisms), which are tested on animals to ensure they are safe for human consumption.
What Is Papa John’s Crust Made Of?
Let’s delve into the ingredients of the original crust:
- Unbleached enriched wheat flour
- Water
- Sugar
- Soybean oil
- Salt
- Yeast
Unbleached Enriched Wheat Flour
This is the backbone of the crust, made from wheat, and it’s vegan friendly.
Water
Water is the essence of life and is vegan.
Sugar
Sugar adds sweetness to the crust. However, since Papa John’s does not disclose the type of sugar used, and some sugar is processed with bone char, we can’t guarantee it’s vegan.
Soybean Oil
This oil comes from soybeans and adds flavor and texture to the crust. It’s generally considered vegan, but it’s one of the most common GMO crops on earth.
Salt
Salt is a mineral and is vegan.
Yeast
Yeast is a fungus that helps the dough rise. It’s vegan.
Other Papa John’s Products
Is Papa John’s Vegan Pizza Vegan?
This pizza is only vegan if you don’t mind that the crust might contain sugar processed with bone char and includes GMO ingredients. It uses vegan cheese and veggie toppings, making it a great option for those adhering to a vegan diet, bone char and GMO notwithstanding.
Are Papa John’s Garlic Knots Vegan?
Unfortunately, no. Papa John’s Garlic Knots are not vegan. They contain dairy products, which makes them unsuitable for a vegan lifestyle.
Are Papa John’s Breadsticks Vegan?
The breadsticks at Papa John’s are also not vegan food because they contain dairy. So, if you’re looking to stay true to your vegan principles, you might want to skip these.
Vegan Alternatives to Papa John’s Crust
If you’re looking for crusts that align with your vegan lifestyle, consider these brands:
- Whole Foods 365 Thin Crust: Vegan and made from whole grains.
- Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Pizza Crust: Vegan and gluten-free.
- DIY pizza bases and crust: Try making your own pizza bases and crust, usually just a combination of flour, salt, and water. You could also try stuffing your crust with vegan cheese!
Conclusion
Papa John’s crust falls short of being vegan and cruelty-free due to the uncertainty surrounding the type of sugar used and the presence of GMO ingredients.
For those committed to a vegan diet and lifestyle, there are alternative crust options available that are both vegan and cruelty-free.
Keep fighting the good fight for the earth and its animals!