The popular Easter marshmallow treats are not vegan or vegetarian, but we have some alternatives
Photo: Adam Corey Thomas
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You know it's spring when your local big box store finally packs up the last of its Valentine's Day candy and suddenly fills the shelves with Peeps. The colorful, plastic-wrapped packages of Easter sweets come in oneendless variations, available in all colors and flavors of the rainbow, from strawberry and chocolate to Hot Tamale and Froot Loops. But are peeps vegan, or are these marshmallow-like creations off limits for plant-based eaters?
Are Peeps vegan?
Peeps are not vegan or vegetarian, according to the company that makes them.
“Our marshmallow candies are not vegan because they contain gelatin derived from pork,” says Just Born, the maker of Peeps. The company claims the pork is essential to the "great eating experience" it creates. “We have done a lot of research, analysis and testing using alternative gelatin sources and have been unable to identify a consistent alternative that provides the same great eating experience as our current gelatin.”
In addition to pork gelatin, Peeps' chocolate-dipped and caramel-filled varieties also contain dairy.
What are some vegan alternatives to peeps?
If you want something sweet and marshmallowy for your spring and Easter celebration – but without the animal ingredients – there are several options to try.Dandy'sis one of our favorite brands of vegan marshmallows, free from glucose syrup and gluten and also completely plant-based. Since a reformulation in 2019Trader Joe's own brand skumfiduserare also vegan. TJ's reportedly uses a seaweed base to account for the animal ingredients in the gelatin.
To make your plain white vegan marshmallow something extra festive, grab your favorite plant butter and try someThemed Marshmallow Rice Krispies Treat.
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