What are Smart Sweets?
Before we explore the vegan status of Smart Sweets, let’s first understand what they are. Smart Sweets is a candy brand that was founded in 2016 by Tara Bosch. The company’s goal is to provide healthier candy options that are low in sugar and high in fiber. Smart Sweets gummies are made with plant-based ingredients and contain no artificial colors or flavors. They’re also free from major allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and dairy.
Based on the ingredients used in Smart Sweets, we can conclude that they are vegan-friendly. All of the ingredients used in Smart Sweets are derived from plants, with the exception of the Vitamin D3 that’s added to some products. However, this Vitamin D3 is derived from lanolin, which is a wax that’s found in sheep’s wool. While it’s not technically a vegan ingredient, it’s worth noting that the amount used in Smart Sweets is minimal.
The Ingredients in Smart Sweets
To determine whether Smart Sweets are vegan, we need to take a closer look at the ingredients used in the gummies. The following is a list of ingredients that are commonly used in Smart Sweets products:
Prebiotic Soluble Fiber from Tapioca
Prebiotic soluble fiber from tapioca is one of the main ingredients in Smart Sweets. It’s used as a sweetener and also helps to give the gummies their chewy texture. Prebiotic soluble fiber is derived from the cassava plant, which is a root vegetable. This ingredient is vegan-friendly as it’s derived from plants.
Allulose
Allulose is a natural sweetener that’s used in Smart Sweets. It’s a low-calorie sugar substitute that’s found naturally in small quantities in some fruits such as figs and raisins. Allulose is vegan-friendly as it’s derived from plants.
Vegetable Glycerin
Vegetable glycerin is a sweet, syrupy liquid that’s used in Smart Sweets as a humectant. It helps to keep the gummies moist and prevent them from drying out. Vegetable glycerin can be derived from both animal and plant sources. However, Smart Sweets uses vegetable glycerin that’s derived from plant sources, making it vegan-friendly.
In addition to beeswax, Smart Sweets’ products also contain other ingredients that may not align with a vegan lifestyle. For example, some flavors contain confectioner’s glaze, which is a coating made from the secretions of the lac bug. While this ingredient is not technically an animal product, it may not be considered vegan by some individuals who avoid products derived from insects.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that while Smart Sweets’ products are low in sugar and high in fiber, they are still candy and should be consumed in moderation. Eating a plant-based or vegan diet does not automatically equate to a healthy diet, and individuals should strive to make balanced food choices that meet their nutritional needs.
Citric Acid
Citric acid is a natural preservative that’s used in Smart Sweets to help extend their shelf life. It’s derived from citrus fruits such as lemons and limes. Citric acid is vegan-friendly as it’s derived from plants.
Fruit and Vegetable Juices
Fruit and vegetable juices are used in Smart Sweets to give them their flavor and color. These juices are derived from various fruits and vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, and apple. Fruit and vegetable juices are vegan-friendly as they’re derived from plants.
Understanding Smart Sweets
Smart Sweets is a candy brand that prides itself on offering candy that is low in sugar, high in fiber, and made with natural ingredients. The brand’s mission is to create candy that is both delicious and healthy, so that individuals can indulge in their favorite treats without any guilt. Smart Sweets offers a variety of flavors, including Peach Rings, Sour Blast Buddies, and Sweet Fish. While their products may seem like a healthier option compared to traditional candy, it is important to analyze the ingredients to determine if they align with a vegan lifestyle.
Vegan-Friendly Ingredients in Smart Sweets
Upon examining the ingredients list of Smart Sweets, it appears that the majority of their products are vegan-friendly. For example, Peach Rings and Sour Blast Buddies contain no animal-derived ingredients and are made with plant-based gelatin. Additionally, their products are free from dairy, making them suitable for individuals who follow a dairy-free or lactose-free diet. However, it is important to note that some flavors, such as Sweet Fish, contain beeswax, which is derived from bees and is not considered vegan.
Ethical Considerations
While Smart Sweets’ products may be free from animal-derived ingredients, it is important to consider the ethical implications of consuming products that contain beeswax. Beeswax is a byproduct of the honey industry and is often harvested by beekeepers who may engage in practices that harm the bees. Additionally, consuming beeswax can perpetuate the demand for honey and honey-related products, which may not align with a vegan lifestyle
Conclusion
In conclusion, Smart Sweets are vegan-friendly. All of the ingredients used in Smart Sweets are derived from plants, with the exception of a small amount of Vitamin D3 that’s added to some products. If you’re following a vegan diet, Smart Sweets can be a great option for satisfying your sweet tooth while still staying true to your values.