Identifying whether Checkers and Rally’s fries are vegan can often be difficult.
This difficulty arises because manufacturers, like Checkers and Rally’s — the same restaurant but with different names across the US — can sometimes conceal the true nature and source of their ingredients.
However, this article aims to uncover the truth and provide you, the compassionate reader, with valuable information to support your vegan lifestyle.
Are Rally’s Fries Vegan?
No, Rally’s fries are not vegan.
The fries contain whey, a dairy by-product, which means they aren’t vegan. In comparison, fries of some other brands, like Burger King fries, might be vegan, but still always need thorough checking.
Are Rally’s Fries Cruelty-Free?
No, Rally’s fries are not entirely cruelty-free.
The inclusion of whey, a milk derivative, suggests the exploitation of dairy cows. Moreover, the use of palm oil can contribute to habitat destruction, endangering numerous animal species.
Furthermore, they contain several GMO ingredients, which are tested on animals, including cornstarch, cornmeal, dextrose, and possibly potatoes. And MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is tested on dogs, if you can believe it.
As if that’s not bad enough — it is, though, right? — Rally’s/Checkers fries also contain palm oil, which is responsible for the leveling of rainforests in Southeast Asia, the destruction of wildlife habitats, and the continued endangerment of orangutans and other species.
What Are Rally’s Fries Made Of?
The world of fast food, with items like Checkers French fries, Checkers Rally’s famous fries, and even Arby’s curly fries, offers a range of ingredients. Here are the key ingredients found in Rally’s fries:
- Potatoes
- Vegetable oil (can include canola, palm, soybean, sunflower)
- Wheat flour
- Enriched wheat flour
- Modified cornstarch
- Salt
- Spices
- Cornmeal
- Monosodium glutamate
- Leavening agents
- Dextrose
- Annatto (for color)
- Whey (from milk)
- Natural flavor
Potatoes
Potatoes are plant-based and play the primary role of providing the main structure of the fry. They are vegan.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil, used for frying, can come from various sources. Most are vegan friendly, but the inclusion of palm oil raises environmental concerns.
Wheat Flour and Enriched Wheat Flour
Both of these provide texture to the fries. They are plant-based and are vegan.
Modified Cornstarch
Derived from corn, this ingredient acts as a thickener and is vegan, but sadly, also GMO.
Salt, Spices, and Cornmeal
All three of these ingredients add flavor and texture to the fries. They are vegan, but cornmeal is GMO.
Monosodium Glutamate
Commonly known as MSG, it’s a flavor enhancer and is vegan. Don’t eat this; it’s tested on dogs.
Leavening Agents
These are vegan and ensure the fries get a crispy texture.
Dextrose
This is a simple sugar from plants and is vegan, but often GMO, since it comes from corn, one of the most common GMO crops along with soybeans and sugar.
Annatto
Used for color, it’s derived from the seeds of the achiote tree and is vegan.
Whey
A by-product of milk, whey is not vegan.
Natural Flavor
This can be derived from both plant and animal sources. Without specific details, it’s hard to determine its vegan status.
Vegan Alternatives to Rally’s Fries
There may not be many vegan options at Checkers, but there are still plenty of options for a vegan diet. In-N-Out fries are vegan, as long as you don’t get them Animal Style. You can also find vegan frozen fries in the grocery store, just look out for that pesky palm oil if you’re worried about the orangutans.
And if fries aren’t it, go for a veggie burger or vegan ice cream instead. However, always read the ingredients label; for instance, some burger buns might not be vegan. When in doubt, homemade recipes from vegan-friendly blogs can be a great resource.
Conclusion
Rally’s fries aren’t vegan-friendly because of whey, a dairy product. They’re not cruelty-free, either, for a plethora of reasons.
Fortunately, for the ethically conscious, there are many delicious vegan food alternatives to explore.
Stay vigilant, read labels, and know that your healthy and ethical food choices are making a difference.