Are Starburst Vegan: 6 Best Alternatives

If you’re a vegan looking for a sweet treat, you may be wondering if Starburst candies are vegan-friendly. Starburst is a popular brand known for its chewy and fruity candy bites. However, their ingredients list includes some components that come from animal sources, making them unsuitable for consumption by vegans.

One of the main non-vegan ingredients in Starburst is gelatin, which is derived from animal bones and may not be suitable for those following a vegan diet. Additionally, Starburst candies contain palm oil, which raises concerns about deforestation and animal habitat destruction. Other non-vegan ingredients that could be found in Starburst include carmine color (also known as Red Lake 40), which is derived from ground-up insects, and confectioner’s glaze, which is made from secretions of lac bugs.

If you’re a vegan and want an alternative to Starburst, there are several options available. Jolly Rancher’s Fruit Chews are a vegan alternative to Starburst candies. They’re chewy and come in a variety of fruity flavors. Another vegan option is Skittles, which have a similar chewy texture and come in various fruit flavors. Both Jolly Rancher Fruit Chews and Skittles are free from gelatin, carmine color, and confectioner’s glaze.

Vegan Alternatives to Starburst

Brand	Description	Key Features
Jolly Rancher Fruit Chews	Chewy and fruity candies	Free from gelatin and non-vegan colorings
Skittles	Chewy and fruity candies	Free from gelatin, carmine color, and glaze
Twizzlers	Chewy twisted licorice candy	Free from gelatin and animal-derived ingredients
Sour Patch Kids	Tangy and chewy fruit-flavored candies	Free from gelatin and animal-derived ingredients
Hi-Chew	Chewy fruit candy from Japan	Does not contain non-vegan ingredients
Smarties	Classic candy rolls	Free from animal-derived ingredients

When looking for vegan candy options, make sure to read the ingredients list carefully. Some candies may appear to be vegan at first glance, but they may contain ingredients like honey, milk, or other animal-derived components. Additionally, be aware that the ingredients list and formulations of candies can change, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the packaging before making a purchase.

In conclusion, if you’re a vegan and looking for an alternative to Starburst candies, there are plenty of fruity and chewy options available. From Jolly Rancher Fruit Chews to Skittles, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your vegan lifestyle.

Quick Summary

In the search for vegan alternatives to Starburst, it is important to consider the ingredients used in the production of these popular chewy candies. Starburst contains gelatin, a substance derived from animal sources, making them unsuitable for those following a vegan lifestyle. However, there are several alternatives available that are both vegan-friendly and equally delicious.

One brand that offers vegan fruit chewy candy is Skittles. Skittles are made without gelatin and contain natural flavorings and colors. They also do not include any wheat, gluten, or animal-derived ingredients, making them a suitable choice for vegans.

Another option for those looking for vegan fruit chews is Unreal’s Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis. These bite-sized treats are made with natural ingredients, including organic coconut, organic cassava syrup, and organic cane sugar. They are also free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Additionally, they do not contain any dairy or animal-derived products, making them a great alternative for vegans.

Brand	Ingredients	Rating
Skittles	Sugar, corn syrup, hydrogenated palm kernel oil, fruit juice from concentrate, less than 1% citric acid, dextrin, natural and artificial flavors, modified corn starch, coloring (includes red 40 lake, blue 1 lake, yellow 5 lake, yellow 6 lake, blue 2 lake, yellow 5, red 40, yellow 6, blue 1), sodium citrate, and carnauba wax	5/5
Unreal’s Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis	Organic cane sugar, organic cassava syrup, organic dark chocolate (organic chocolate liquor, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter), organic coconut, organic tapioca starch, organic coconut oil, sea salt, colored with vegetable juice	4/5

• Skittles have a variety of flavors and are gluten-free, making them a popular choice for vegans.
• The Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis from Unreal offer a rich and indulgent taste, with the added bonus of being vegan-friendly.
• When it comes to finding vegan alternatives to Starburst, it is important to read the ingredient list carefully to ensure that the candy does not contain any animal-derived ingredients or artificial additives.
• Overall, there are plenty of sweet and chewy options available for vegans, and with a little bit of research, you can find a candy that satisfies your cravings without compromising your dietary choices.

Are Starburst Minis Vegan

If you’re looking for a vegan candy option, Starburst Minis might not be the best choice. While the original Starburst candy is known for its chewy and fruity taste, the ingredients used in Starburst Minis include some animal-derived products.

One of the ingredients that makes Starburst Minis non-vegan is gelatin. Gelatin is a protein derived from animal tissues, such as skin and bones. It is commonly used as a gelling agent in candy-making. Since Starburst Minis contain gelatin, they are not suitable for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Furthermore, Starburst Minis also contain confectioner’s glaze, which is made from secretions of certain insects. This ingredient is often used as a glazing agent to give candy a shiny appearance. Again, for those who avoid consuming animal products, this ingredient makes Starburst Minis unsuitable.

If you’re in search of a vegan alternative to Starburst Minis, there are several options available. One alternative is Jolly Rancher Fruit Bites. These chewy fruit candies are similar in texture to Starburst Minis, but they are vegan-friendly.

Starburst Minis	Jolly Rancher Fruit Bites
Contain gelatin and confectioner’s glaze	Do not contain animal-derived ingredients
Not suitable for vegans	Vegan-friendly option
Contain artificial coloring	May contain natural food coloring

If you’re unsure whether a candy is vegan or not, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list. Look out for common non-vegan ingredients like gelatin, milk powder, honey, and carmine (a red coloring derived from insects). By being mindful of the ingredients, you can find vegan-friendly candy options that satisfy your sweet tooth.

How Are Starburst Made?

Starburst are a popular fruit candy known for their sweet and fruity flavors. For those looking for a vegan alternative to Starburst, there are several options available. One popular brand is Jolly Rancher, which offers a range of fruit-flavored candies that are vegan-friendly. Another option is to make your own fruit candy bites using natural ingredients.

When it comes to making Starburst, the main ingredients include sugar, corn syrup, fruit juice, and malic acid. The coloring of Starburst is achieved using natural sources such as fruit and vegetable juices. The yellow Starburst, for example, gets its color from the juice of yellow beans. The orange Starburst, on the other hand, contains coloring from orange juice and the red Starburst get their coloring from the fruit juice of strawberries. Additionally, some flavors of Starburst may also include flavorings like lecithin and sodium citrate.

If you’re not a fan of making your own candy, there are also store-bought vegan options available. Some brands offer fruit chews that are made without any animal-derived ingredients. These alternatives often use ingredients like rice syrup, apple juice concentrate, and fruit pectin to achieve a similar texture and taste to Starburst.

Ingredients in Starburst:

• Sugar
• Corn Syrup
• Fruit Juice
• Malic Acid
• Artificial and Natural Flavors
• Red 40
• Yellow 5
• Blue 1

Ingredients in Vegan Alternatives:

• Rice Syrup
• Apple Juice Concentrate
• Fruit Pectin
• Malic Acid
• Artificial and Natural Flavors

Both Starburst and its vegan alternatives can be enjoyed by vegans, but it’s important to note that while they may be free from animal ingredients, they are still candy and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

6 Best Vegan Alternatives

For those looking for the best vegan alternatives to Starburst, there are several options available on the market. These options provide the same chewy and sweet experience as Starburst, but without any animal-derived ingredients. If you are a fan of fruity jelly candies, here are six great alternatives to consider:

• Jolly Rancher Bites: These bite-sized candies offer a similar chewiness to Starburst and come in a variety of fruity flavors. They are made without any animal products and are gluten-free, making them a great option for vegans.
• Skittles: Skittles are a classic choice when it comes to fruity candy. They are made with a sugar shell and a chewy center, providing a similar texture to Starburst. Skittles are entirely vegan and even come in a sour version for those who like an extra tang.
• Patch Candy: Patch Candy is a brand that specializes in vegan and gluten-free candies. They offer a variety of fruity flavors, including strawberry, orange, and lemon. Patch Candy is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any animal-derived gelatin.
• Sour Patch Kids: Sour Patch Kids are another popular vegan alternative to Starburst. These chewy candies have a sour sugar coating and a fruity flavor. They are entirely vegan and do not contain any gelatin or other animal products.
• Now & Later: Now & Later is a brand of taffy-like fruit candies. They come in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, apple, and grape. Now & Later candies are vegan-friendly and provide a long-lasting chewiness similar to Starburst.
• Airheads: Airheads are a fruit-flavored taffy-like candy that is popular among vegans. They come in various flavors, including cherry, orange, and raspberry. Airheads are made without any animal-derived ingredients and are a great alternative to Starburst.

These vegan alternatives to Starburst offer the same fruity flavors and chewy texture that you love, without any animal-derived ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of sour candies or prefer traditional fruity flavors, there is a vegan option for everyone. So, next time you’re craving a chewy and sweet candy like Starburst, you can reach for one of these delicious vegan alternatives!

1 Airheads

Airheads are a tasty vegan alternative to Starburst candy. These chewy treats are made from a starch-based blend that includes corn syrup, sugar, and maltodextrin. Unlike Starburst, which contains gelatin, Airheads are free from animal-based ingredients, making them a suitable option for those following a vegan lifestyle.

One of the most popular flavors of Airheads is strawberry. The strawberry Airheads taste similar to the strawberry Starburst, so if you’re a fan of that flavor, you’ll enjoy the strawberry Airheads as well. Additionally, Airheads come in a variety of other fruit flavors like cherry, blue raspberry, watermelon, and more, offering a wide selection to choose from.

It’s important to note that while Airheads are a vegan alternative to Starburst, they do contain more artificial ingredients. This includes food coloring, artificial flavors, and ingredients like malic acid and sodium citrate. However, if you’re looking for a chewy and flavorful candy that doesn’t contain animal products like gelatin, Airheads are a great option to satisfy your sweet tooth.

2. Twizzlers

Twizzlers are a popular candy brand that vegans can enjoy as an alternative to Starburst. Unlike Starburst, Twizzlers are made from wheat and contain no gelatin or animal-derived ingredients. They are a chewy and fruity treat that comes in a variety of flavors, including strawberry, cherry, and watermelon. Twizzlers are also free from artificial coloring and are made with natural fruit juice, making them a healthier option for those looking for a vegan candy.

One thing to note is that Twizzlers do contain some processed ingredients such as corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, and palm oil. However, these ingredients are considered vegan-friendly as they are plant-based. Twizzlers also contain some other additives like maltodextrin, malic acid, and sodium citrate, which are all vegan-friendly.

If you’re a vegan looking for a sweet and chewy candy alternative to Starburst, Twizzlers are a fantastic option. They’re a tasty treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your vegan lifestyle.

3 Jolly Ranchers: A Potential Alternative for Vegans

If you’re a vegan and looking for a candy alternative to Starburst, Jolly Ranchers could be a suitable option. Although Jolly Ranchers may not have the same chewy texture as Starburst, they offer a variety of fruity flavors that can satisfy your sweet tooth.

When it comes to ingredients, Jolly Ranchers do not contain gelatin, which is commonly derived from animal bones and tissues, making them a suitable choice for vegans. Instead, Jolly Ranchers mainly consist of sugar, corn syrup, fruit flavoring, and artificial coloring. The artificial coloring used in Jolly Ranchers is often made from plant-based sources and does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.

Moreover, Jolly Ranchers do not contain gluten, wheat, or any other common allergens, making them a potentially safe choice for those with dietary restrictions. However, it’s always important to check the ingredient list for any potential changes or updates.

Here is a breakdown of the ingredients found in Jolly Ranchers:

Ingredients	Comments
Sugar	Common sweetener
Corn syrup	Used as a sweetener and binder
Natural and artificial flavoring	Provides fruity taste
Artificial coloring (Red 40, Blue 1, Yellow 5, Yellow 6)	Adds vibrant colors to the candies

Overall, Jolly Ranchers can be a suitable alternative to Starburst for vegans. They are generally free of animal-derived ingredients and common allergens. However, it’s always recommended to double-check the ingredient list and consult with the manufacturer if you have any specific concerns or dietary restrictions.

4 Skittles

When it comes to vegan candies, Skittles are a popular choice for those who are looking for an alternative to Starburst. Skittles are known for their chewy texture and fruity flavors, making them a favorite among many candy lovers. However, not all Skittles are vegan, so it’s important to check the ingredients before indulging.

One of the main concerns for vegans when it comes to Skittles is the use of food coloring. Skittles contain a variety of food colorings, including yellow 6, yellow 5, red 40, blue 1, and blue 2. While these colorings are not animal-derived, some vegans may be concerned about their safety or the way they are produced. Additionally, Skittles also contain sugar, corn syrup, and hydrogenated palm kernel oil, which are common ingredients in many non-vegan candies.

However, there is good news for vegans – Skittles’ ingredients have changed over the years, and now the brand uses natural flavors and colors derived from fruits and vegetables. This means that most flavors of Skittles, including Original, Wild Berry, and Sour, are considered vegan-friendly. It’s always recommended to check the packaging for any ingredient changes or updates, as formulas may vary.

In conclusion, Skittles are a viable option for vegans looking for a candy alternative to Starburst. While some Skittles may contain ingredients like gelatin or dairy, most flavors are vegan-friendly and contain natural fruit flavors and colors. The ingredients used in Skittles have been modified over time to cater to the vegan market, making them a delicious and suitable choice for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.

5 Dots: A Great Alternative to Starburst Candy for Vegans

For vegans who love chewy, fruity candy, finding suitable options can often be challenging. Fortunately, there is a delicious alternative to Starburst: 5 Dots. These tasty candies are vegan-friendly and are made without using any animal-derived ingredients.

One of the main concerns for vegans when it comes to candies like Starburst is the use of animal-based gelatin. However, 5 Dots are made with a plant-based starch, making them a great choice for those following a vegan diet. They provide the same chewy texture and fruit flavors that candy lovers enjoy, without the need for animal products.

5 Dots offer a variety of flavors, including strawberry, which is similar to the popular flavor found in Starburst. They also come in other fruity flavors like cherry, orange, lemon, and lime. So, if you’re a fan of Starburst but want a vegan-friendly option, 5 Dots could be the perfect choice for you.

Sour Patch Kids: A Vegan Alternative to Starburst Candy

For vegans looking for an alternative to Starburst candy, Sour Patch Kids can be a great option. These sour and chewy candies come in various flavors, including orange, strawberry, and even a fruitful mix. While Starburst contains ingredients that are derived from animals, Sour Patch Kids do not, making them a suitable choice for vegans.

Sour Patch Kids do not contain gelatin, which is a common ingredient derived from animal bones and skin that is used in many candies. Instead, Sour Patch Kids use modified food starch as a binding agent, which is typically made from corn or potatoes. The coloring in these candies also comes from plant-based sources, such as fruit juice and a synthetic dye known as FD&C Yellow #5.

Additionally, Sour Patch Kids do not contain any gluten, so those with gluten intolerances or celiac disease can enjoy them without worry. They also do not contain any palm oil, which is a controversial ingredient commonly found in many packaged foods. Instead, Sour Patch Kids use palm kernel oil, which comes from the seed of the palm fruit and is considered a more sustainable alternative.

Ingredients in Sour Patch Kids:

Ingredient	Source
Sugar	Plant-based
Inverted sugar	Plant-based
Corn syrup	Plant-based
Modified food starch	Plant-based (corn or potatoes)
Citric acid	Plant-based
Tartaric acid	Plant-based
Natural and artificial flavor	Plant-based
Red 40	Plant-based
Yellow 5	Plant-based
Blue 1	Plant-based

Overall, Sour Patch Kids offer a tasty and vegan alternative to Starburst candy. They are free from gelatin, gluten, and palm oil, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions or ethical concerns. Whether you’re looking for a change from Starburst or simply want a chewy and sweet treat, Sour Patch Kids are one of the best options for vegans.