Navigating the world of food labels can be a challenging task, especially for those committed to a vegan or plant-based lifestyle. Many products on the shelves contain ingredients derived from animals, and these aren't always obvious. To help you make informed choices, we've compiled a comprehensive list of common non-vegan ingredients hidden in food labels.
Common Non-Vegan Ingredients
Gelatin: Found in gummy candies and desserts, derived from animal skin and bones.
Casein & Whey: Milk proteins present in dairy products and baked goods.
Lactose: A milk sugar used in various processed foods.
Albumin: Egg white protein, used in baking.
Honey: A common sweetener produced by bees.
Cochineal/Carmine: A red dye from crushed insects, used in candies and drinks.
Isinglass: From fish bladders, used in clarifying beers and wines.
Lanolin: Sheep wool grease, found in vitamin D3 supplements.
Shellac: Bug secretion, used as a coating on candies and pills.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Often sourced from fish.
Vitamin D3: Typically derived from fish oil or sheep's wool.
L-Cysteine: From feathers or hog hair, used in bread.
Pepsin: Enzyme from pig stomach, used in cheese-making.
Tallow: Animal fat, found in margarines and cosmetics.
Glycerine/Glycerol: Can be animal fat-derived.
Bone Char: Used in sugar refining.
Rennet: From calves' stomachs, used in cheese.
Collagen: From animal tissue, used in supplements.
Keratin: From animal hair or horns, in hair care products.
Beeswax: Used as a glaze in sweets.
Royal Jelly & Propolis: Bee products in supplements and food.
Animal-Derived Vitamin A: In fortified foods and supplements.
Fish and Oyster Sauces: Common in Asian cooking.
Worcestershire Sauce: Often contains anchovies.
Egg and Milk Powders: In processed and baked goods.
Suet and Lard: Animal fats used in cooking.
Gelatinized Starch: Processed with animal products.
Milk Solids: In processed foods.
Fish Oil: In supplements and fortified foods.
Caprylic Acid: Derived from milk.
Pancreatin: From animal pancreas, in digestive aids.
Animal Shortening: In baking.
Elk Antler Velvet: In some supplements.
Frog Legs & Snails: Used in certain cuisines.
Animal-Derived Leucine: In nutrition products.
Squalene/Squalane: Often from shark liver, in cosmetics.
Tips for Vegans
Read Labels Carefully: Ingredients can appear under different names.
Research Unknown Ingredients: Some may be animal-derived.
Look for Certifications: Vegan labels can guide you.
Contact Manufacturers: When in doubt, ask about ingredient sources.
For vegans, understanding the source of each ingredient is crucial. This list is a starting point, but always stay curious and do your research. Remember, being vegan isn't just about food choices; it's about making conscious decisions that align with your ethical beliefs.
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