Everyone deserves to enjoy the holidays, regardless of the diet they either follow by choice or because of allergies. Being vegetarian or vegan can definitely take a toll on the celebrations since several staple foods of American holidays include animal products. However, it may seem like Halloween is pretty straight forward for vegans. Since milk is an animal product, don’t have milk chocolate. Instead, opt for candy. Or, vegan Halloween candy?
This is where it gets tricky. Several candies include a protein called gelatin. It’s a tasteless ingredient added to candies to give them their chewy consistency. You’re probably wondering how this is an animal derived product which makes both vegan (and non-vegan) individuals cringe, so let me break it to you.
Gelatin is created by boiling the skin, tendons, ligaments and bones of different animals to create a jelly-like substance.
Yeah, I know, I couldn’t believe it either. I bet you weren’t prepared for the curve ball that was just thrown your way. So, for all of you vegan and anti-gelatin folks out there, here’s a list of vegan candy options as Halloween quickly approaches
1. Skittles
Skittles are one of my favorite candies. They are great on their own, but also come in handy when it comes time to party. This Halloween, be sure to taste the rainbow, not the gelatin.
#SpoonTip: Check out this easy 5-step recipe to make your very own Skittles Vodka.
2. Sour Patch Kids
For all those sour candy lovers out there. Not only do these candies look like adorable little teddy bears, but they also taste amazing. These will definitely be a staple in my gelatin-free candy haul this year.
3. Twizzlers
Remember using these as straws? (#tbt) If you’re sitting there questioning how on earth that is possible, check out these step by step instructions. You can thank me later.
4. Rockets
Did you know these are called Rockets in Canada and Smarties in the United States? If you’re celebrating Halloween in Canada, try not to get the names mixed up. Rockets are vegan, Smarties definitely are not.
5. Nerds
Found at your local grocery store, not the library. These candies are great on their own but are even better when used to give a Funfetti effect with an added crunch in cakes, pancakes, or cookies.
6. Jolly Ranchers
These are an alright candy. Check out how to take these mediocre candies that no one really likes and turn them into these super cute Jolly Rancher candy roses.
7. Pixie Stix
Did you know Pixie Stix were originally meant to be mixed with water to make flavored drinks? This halloween try mixing your Pixie Stix with vodka for a drink that’s both sweet and sour. Seems to me like Skittles Vodka may have some competition.
8. Swedish Fish
Don’t let the name deceive you, these candies are still vegan. Not only that but they are extremely underrated. I don’t think Swedish Fish are never given enough credit for how delicious they really are.
A diet should never stop you from enjoying life. There are so many different alternatives to foods regardless of your restrictions. Gelatin may be freaky, but don’t let it ruin your Halloween candy haul. Get out there, get trick or treating, and treat yo self.