Marshmallows are a soft, chewy confectionery that’s popular all over the world. They’re typically made from sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, which is a protein obtained from animal bones, hooves, and connective tissue. The gelatin is what gives marshmallows their signature texture.
Marshmallows come in different shapes and sizes, but they’re usually small, cylindrical, and white. They can be enjoyed on their own or used as an ingredient in various recipes, such as s’mores, hot chocolate, and desserts.
Ingredients Used in Marshmallows
The traditional recipe for making marshmallows includes three primary ingredients, sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin. Gelatin is made from animal collagen, and it’s what gives marshmallows their signature texture. Marshmallows also contain water and corn starch, which are used to help stabilize the mixture and prevent it from sticking
What Makes Marshmallows Non-Vegan?
The main ingredient that makes marshmallows non-vegan is gelatin. Gelatin is derived from animal products and is commonly used in the food industry to add texture and stability to foods. Marshmallows contain gelatin, which is obtained from the collagen in animal connective tissues.
Therefore, if you’re following a vegan lifestyle, traditional marshmallows are off-limits. They’re made from animal products, and consuming them goes against the ethical beliefs of vegans.
Are All Marshmallows Non-Vegan?
Not all marshmallows are non-vegan. Some manufacturers produce vegan marshmallows that don’t contain gelatin or any other animal-derived ingredients. Instead, they use plant-based ingredients to create a similar texture and flavor.
Vegan marshmallows can be made from different ingredients, such as carrageenan, agar-agar, or even chickpea water. They may taste slightly different from traditional marshmallows, but they’re still delicious and can be used in various recipes.
Vegan Marshmallow Alternatives
If you’re vegan and craving marshmallows, you don’t have to miss out on this tasty treat. There are several vegan marshmallow alternatives that you can choose from, including:
Dandies Marshmallows
Dandies Marshmallows are a popular vegan marshmallow brand that’s widely available in stores and online. They’re made from tapioca syrup, cane sugar, and carrageenan, which gives them a similar texture to traditional marshmallows.
Marshmallow Ingredients to Watch Out For
While marshmallows are traditionally made using gelatin, there are other non-vegan ingredients to watch out for as well. Many marshmallows contain confectioner’s glaze, which is made using insect secretions. Additionally, some brands may use milk powder or egg whites as binding agents. It’s important to carefully read the ingredients list on any marshmallow packaging to ensure that the product is vegan.
The Rise of Vegan Marshmallow Brands
As the demand for vegan products continues to grow, so does the availability of vegan marshmallows. Several brands, such as Dandies and Trader Joe’s, now offer vegan-friendly versions of the classic treat. These marshmallows are made using plant-based ingredients like agar agar or carrageenan, which provide the same texture and taste as traditional marshmallows without the use of animal products.
Marshmallow Alternatives for Vegans
If you’re unable to find vegan marshmallows at your local store, or if you simply prefer to make your own treats from scratch, there are several marshmallow alternatives to consider. One popular option is to make marshmallows using aquafaba, the liquid from a can of chickpeas. Another is to use a combination of agar agar and xanthan gum to achieve a similar texture to traditional marshmallows. With a little creativity and experimentation, it’s possible to enjoy the delicious taste of marshmallows without compromising your vegan lifestyle.
Trader Joe’s Vegan Marshmallows
Trader Joe’s is another brand that produces vegan marshmallows. Their marshmallows are made from tapioca syrup, cane sugar, and carrageenan, and they’re gluten-free and kosher.
Smash Mallow
Smash Mallow is a vegan marshmallow brand that’s known for its unique flavors, such as cinnamon churro and toasted coconut pineapple. Their marshmallows are made from organic cane sugar, tapioca syrup, and agar.
How to Identify Vegan Marshmallows?
If you’re not sure whether a particular marshmallow brand is vegan, you can look for the following ingredients:
- Carrageenan
- Agar-agar
- Tapioca starch
- Chickpea water (aquafaba)
If the ingredients list doesn’t mention any animal-derived ingredients, it’s likely that the marshmallows are vegan-friendly. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the label and do some research to ensure that the product is truly vegan.
What Are the Benefits of Vegan Marshmallows?
Aside from being vegan-friendly, there are other benefits to choosing vegan marshmallows over traditional ones. For one, vegan marshmallows are often free from high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, and flavors, which are common ingredients in conventional marshmallows.
Moreover, some vegan marshmallows are gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free, making them a great option for people with allergies or dietary restrictions.
Can Vegans Eat Marshmallows Made with Gelatin Alternatives?
Marshmallows made with gelatin alternatives, such as fish gelatin or collagen peptides, are still not considered vegan. Although these alternatives are not derived from land animals, they’re still animal products, and consuming them goes against vegan principles.
Do Vegan Marshmallows Taste Different?
Vegan marshmallows can taste slightly different from traditional marshmallows, mainly because they’re made with different ingredients. However, most people find that the taste and texture of vegan marshmallows are similar enough to satisfy their cravings.
Some people even prefer the taste of vegan marshmallows because they don’t contain artificial flavors or high fructose corn syrup.
How to Store Marshmallows
Marshmallows should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Exposure to moisture and humidity can cause marshmallows to become sticky and lose their texture.
If your marshmallows become stale, you can revive them by placing them in a sealed bag with a slice of bread or a damp paper towel. The marshmallows will absorb the moisture from the bread or paper towel and become soft and fluffy again.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while marshmallows are traditionally made with non-vegan ingredients like gelatin, there are now many vegan-friendly options available on the market. These options use plant-based alternatives like agar agar or carrageenan to provide the same texture and taste as traditional marshmallows without the use of animal products. It’s important to carefully read the ingredients list on any marshmallow packaging to ensure that the product is vegan-friendly and to avoid non-vegan ingredients like confectioner’s glaze, milk powder, or egg whites.