As part of the Vegan America community, you\’re likely aware that maintaining a vegan lifestyle goes beyond skipping meat and dairy. Many everyday foods and beverages, seemingly innocent, contain hidden animal products. Whether you\’re seasoned in vegan living or just starting, being aware of these can help you make truly vegan choices.
1. Beer and Wine
Alcoholic beverages like beer and wine may use animal-derived agents such as isinglass (from fish bladders) for clarification. Alternative: Check our Vegan Products Directory for a list of vegan alcoholic beverages.
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2. White Sugar
Some brands process sugar with bone char to achieve a whiter color. Alternative: Our directory includes vegan-friendly sugars that avoid bone char processing.
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3. Bagels and Bread
Commercial breads might include L-cysteine, derived from feathers or human hair, to soften dough. Alternative: Visit our website for vegan-certified bread and bagel brands.
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4. Orange Juice
Fortified juices can contain fish oil or gelatin. Alternative: Our directory offers options for naturally derived or plant-fortified juices.
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5. Candies
Gelatin, found in many chewy candies and marshmallows, comes from animal bones. Alternative: We list gelatin-free candies and vegan sweets.
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6. Worcestershire Sauce
This sauce traditionally includes anchovies. Alternative: Vegan Worcestershire sauce is available and listed in our directory.
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7. Chips
Some flavored chips contain hidden animal ingredients like chicken fat or milk derivatives. Alternative: Check our directory for purely vegan chips.
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8. Refried Beans
Refried beans are often cooked with lard. Alternative: Our website features brands offering vegetarian or vegan refried beans.
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9. Non-Dairy Creamers
Despite their name, many non-dairy creamers contain casein, a milk protein. Alternative: Our directory ensures truly vegan creamers.
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10. Pesto
Traditional pesto includes Parmesan cheese, which involves animal rennet. Alternative: Look for vegan pesto or make your own using recipes from our site.
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Stay Informed with Vegan America
By staying informed and vigilant about the ingredients in your food, you can ensure that your dietary choices align with your vegan values. Check out our Vegan Products Directory on the Vegan America website for reliable vegan alternatives to these common foods and more. Together, we\’re making vegan living accessible and straightforward for everyone in our community.