Identifying whether a product like Planet Oat dairy-free frozen desserts are vegan can be difficult.
This difficulty arises because manufacturers conceal the true nature and source of their ingredients.
However, this article aims to uncover the truth and provide you, the young warrior of our planet, with valuable information to support your compassionate, vegan lifestyle.
Is Planet Oat Ice Cream Vegan?
Yes, Planet Oat Ice Cream is vegan. While many sugars are processed with bone char, which is derived from animal bones, the Planet Oat brand claims to be entirely vegan, which leads me to conclude it does not use sugar processed with bone char.
However, the label states it “may contain egg,” which is an animal product. This is an issue of cross-contamination, so if you’re a strict vegan who avoids any cross-contamination with animal products, you may want to avoid this otherwise vegan ice cream.
Is Planet Oat Ice Cream Cruelty-Free?
Yes, based on the provided ingredient list, Planet Oat Ice Cream appears to be cruelty-free. There’s no indication that the product or its ingredients are tested on animals. Furthermore, Planet Oat is verified by the Non-GMO Project, so you can trust that none of its ingredients are GMO.
However, it’s essential to note that the presence of coconut oil and other ingredients might raise concerns about habitat destruction, especially if they are not sustainably sourced.
What Is Planet Oat Ice Cream Made Of?
Planet Oat Ice Cream, a delightful frozen dessert, is made of the following ingredients:
- Oatmilk (filtered water, oats)
- Sugar
- Tapioca solids
- Coconut oil
- Tapioca starch
- Mono and diglycerides
- Guar gum
- Locust bean gum
- Vanilla extract
- Natural flavors
- Sea salt
Let’s delve deeper into some of these ingredients for the most popular flavor, the Vanilla Non-Dairy :
Oatmilk
Derived from oats and water, oat milk serves as the primary base for this ice cream. It’s a vegan-friendly alternative to dairy milk.
Sugar
Used for sweetness, its source can be problematic. If processed with bone char, it’s not vegan.
Tapioca Solids
Derived from the cassava root, tapioca solids are used to enhance texture and consistency in foods. They are plant-based and vegan.
Tapioca Starch
Derived from the cassava plant, it’s used as a thickener. It’s plant-based and vegan.
Mono- and Diglycerides
These are emulsifiers that help maintain a consistent texture in food products by preventing the separation of oils and fats. They can be derived from both plant and animal sources. Because this is a vegan product, it’s safe to assume these mono- and diglycerides are vegan.
Guar Gum
Guar gum is a thickening agent sourced from guar beans. It’s vegan and helps in achieving the desired consistency.
Coconut Oil
Extracted from coconuts, coconut oil gives the ice cream a creamy texture. However, its sourcing can impact habitats if not done sustainably.
Locust Bean Gum
Sourced from the seeds of the carob tree, locust bean gum is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in foods. It’s entirely plant based and vegan.
Vanilla Extract
Derived from vanilla beans, vanilla extract adds flavor. It’s plant based and vegan.
Natural Flavors
These can be derived from both plant and animal sources. Without specific details, it’s hard to determine its vegan status, but given the vegan status of Planet Oat as a whole, these are likely vegan in this case.
Sea Salt
Extracted from seawater through evaporation, sea salt is used for flavoring. It’s 100% vegan and natural.
Planet Oat Ice Cream Varieties
Is Planet Oat Chocolate Peanut Butter Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert Vegan?
Yes, Planet Oat is a vegan brand that only uses vegan ingredients. The Chocolate Peanut Butter ice cream is vegan.
Is Planet Oat Cookies & Creme Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert Vegan?
Yes, Planet Oat is a vegan brand that only uses vegan ingredients. Planet Oat Cookies & Creme ice cream is vegan.
Is Planet Oat Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert Vegan?
Yes, Planet Oat is a vegan brand that only uses vegan ingredients. Planet Oat Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough ice cream is vegan.
Is Planet Oat Mint Fudge Swirl Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert Vegan?
Yes, Planet Oat is a vegan brand that only uses vegan ingredients. Planet Oat Mint Fudge Swirl ice cream is vegan.
Vegan Alternatives to Planet Oat Ice Cream
For those who can’t get Planet Oat ice cream in their location, there are numerous alternative brands available.
Brands like So Delicious and Ben & Jerry’s offer vegan ice cream flavors as well.
You can also explore homemade recipes using almond milk, cashew milk, or other plant-based milks.
Remember to always check the ingredient list, especially for sugars, to ensure they’re vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
In the vast world of frozen desserts, Planet Oat Ice Cream stands out with its oat milk base. It claims to be a completely vegan brand, and we take it at its word. It’s also cruelty-free and non-GMO.
As defenders of our planet and its inhabitants, it’s crucial to make informed food choices. Always read labels, ask questions, and continue to champion a compassionate lifestyle.