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Sour Patch Kids are a popular candy, as seen by the large number of vegans who question if they are vegan, as well as Google Trends.

Sour Patch Kids, unlike other sweets of the same sort, do not appear to include gelatin, which is generally what gives these candies away. On the ingredient list, there are no other apparent animal products.

It is easy to assume that Sour Patch Kids are vegan just by looking at the label and seeing that there are no obvious animal components.

However, I can see several ingredients that are frowned upon by the vegan community, such as sugar, artificial flavors, and color.

Sour Patch Kids: Ingredients

Sour Patch Kids are made up of a variety of ingredients, including plant-based sugar and man-made additives that give the candies their texture, form, and various colors.

While a label might seem to be vegan-friendly, certain ingredients are contentious, which some people may not be aware of (for example, new vegans).

Looking at the label of this product, I see the following components that are controversial:

• Artificial colors
• Artificial flavors
• Sugar

Even though they are fundamentally plant-based, these ingredients are frequently linked to animal suffering.

Why The Sugar In Sour Patch Kids Might Not Be Vegan

Sugar is derived from either sugarcane or sugarbeets, both of which are used in comparable quantities in the US.

Their refining processes are extremely different, despite their identical flavor and texture.

Cane sugar is usually processed, filtered, and bleached with bone char — a non-vegan characteristic — while beet sugar is being extracted using a diffuser and combined with additives to crystallize.

What Is Bone Char?

Bone char, according to PETA, is produced from the bones of animals from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Argentina, and India. The bones are sold to sugar suppliers in the United States after being sold to traders in Scotland, Brazil, and Egypt.

Bone char, also known as natural carbon, is a decolorizing chemical used in the sugar business, which is why sugar has such a clean, white color.

Is Sour Patch Kids Sugar Vegan?

Because different vendors supply both types of sugar (cane and beet sugar), companies like Oreo make use of both, making it impossible to trace the sugar back to its source.

However, Mondelez International, the global corporation that controls Oreos and Sour Patch Kids, has acknowledged that its suppliers utilize bone char.

Other Controversial Ingredients In Sour Patch Kids

Other ingredients, aside from sugar, are the subject of much controversy in the vegan community, and they should be taken into account by anybody following a vegan diet.

Artificial Flavors & Colors

Despite being listed separately on labels, both artificial colors and artificial flavors are likely to be non-vegan for the same reason.

Blue 1, yellow 5, and 6 are sourced from petroleum, whereas Red 40 is derived from coal. Although not the most delightful finding, those are vegan sources.

The issue emerges when you learn that artificial ingredients are tested extensively on animals in general (mainly rats, mice, and occasionally dogs).

These animals are given dyes in particular to monitor the formation of possible health concerns, which might manifest themselves in the form of tumors from time to time. Even if they do not die as a result of the dyes' adverse effects, they are killed during the testing.

While I'm not sure how often artificial flavor testing is done, I have learned that artificial colors are examined on a regular basis owing to potential health hazards.

These tests, which were done in 2017 and 2018, are now available on the internet.

Most vegans may not mind, and I'm sure many vegans and vegetarians, like myself, have ingested items containing artificial colors or flavors. If you're a more rigid person, though, it's reasonable that you'd want to avoid these ingredients at all costs.

Even if you choose not to avoid any of these ingredients that have been tested on mice, there's no disputing that someone who takes a more rigid approach has good reasons to avoid them.

Vegan Alternatives To Sour Patch Kids

While I can locate some alternatives that do not contain animal-based ingredients, finding alternatives that don't contain the aforementioned "questionable" elements is nearly difficult.

However, I was able to discover items that explicitly state that they are vegan-friendly on their labels, which is why I've included them below:

Sour Viking by Candy People

Smart Sweets Sweet Fish (Does not contain questionable ingredients)

Yum Earth: Organic Sour Beans

While they may not taste or give the same flavor sensation as the Sour Patch Kids, they are still worth a try!

Verdict: Sour Patch Kids Are Not Vegan

Sour Patch Kids cannot be termed vegan, as we just learned in this article since at least a portion of the sugar in the product has been filtered with the use of a non-vegan decolorizing process called bone char.

Furthermore, we may deduce that some of the contentious ingredients, like artificial colors and artificial flavors, are results of extensive experimentation on animal species such as rats, mice, and, sometimes, dogs.

More significantly, artificial colors (specifically, the color Red #40) are examined on a regular basis to guarantee that no potential health concerns arise.

However, because these components (particularly sugar) are included in nearly every sweet-tasting food, it's true that they're tough to avoid. As a result, I wouldn't judge someone who chose to eat such a product since I realize how tough it may be to find suitable alternatives at times.

For those that adhere to stricter "vegan" ideals, I've included several Amazon US options that are quite comparable to Sour Patch Kids

Whether you have been a vegan for a long time or are a new vegan, the question "is it vegan?" keeps being asked.

So, the next time you're craving something sweet, you might wonder, "Are starbursts vegan?" Or is it true that Starburst jelly beans are vegan?

The solution is a bit more complicated than normal. But don't be worried. I will go through all the specifics with you, so you will know precisely how vegan these soft taffy boxes are.

What is Starburst made of?

Starburst candies, as well as the renowned Starburst jelly beans, come in a variety of flavors.

They all have basically the same components, from the classic orange, cherry, strawberry, and lemon, to exotic tastes like a piña colada.

The following are the major ingredients in both traditional and Starburst jelly beans:

• Fruit juice from concentrate (cherry, orange, apple, etc.)
• Artificial colors (usually red 40, blue 1, yellow 5, yellow 6)
• Corn syrup
• Sugar
• Artificial flavors
• Palm oil

The remainder of the ingredients differs depending on the taste and the nation in which they are manufactured and marketed.

Starburst sold in the United States contains gelatin, but Starburst marketed in the United Kingdom does not.

Starburst jelly beans, on the other hand, do not include gelatin and are instead created with a confectioner's glaze.

So are Starburst vegan? Are Starburst jelly beans vegan?

Remember how they have a confectioner's glaze ingredient? This is what the jelly beans have on the outside to make them seem sparkly. Confectioner's glaze is produced from shellac, which is obtained from a species of insect.

Swallowing confectioner's glaze is almost the same as eating bug secretions. So, no, it's not vegan (and not also very appetizing).

Always ensure to check the label before buying to ensure you're receiving authentic UK gelatin-free Starburst, as you should with just much any manufactured product.

Should you even be eating these things?

As we have seen with many technically vegan dishes, just because they're vegan doesn't mean they're necessarily healthy. This is the situation with Starburst: virtually all of the ingredients are harmful and unethical in some circumstances.

Let's look at it more closely.

Palm oil

While palm oil is technically vegan because it is a plant-based oil, many vegans do not consider it to be a really vegan ingredient.

The production of palm oil has a negative impact on the environment. It contributes to the devastation of natural rainforests, ecological degradation, animal fatalities, and indigenous people's relocation. In this post on whether or not vegans should eat margarine, I go into further depth concerning the influence of palm oil.

Artificial colors

A lot of artificial colors, such as the abovementioned confectioner's glaze, are made from insect secretions or broken-up bug corpses (just what you want in your meal, right?). The good news is that none of the artificial colors used in the production of Starburst fruit chews come from animals.

However, data suggests that the artificial colors employed in Starburst may be harmful to one's health. Artificial colors have been discovered in certain tests to be carcinogens or cancer-causing chemicals. Separate research found a relationship between ADHD and artificial colors in youngsters.

Aside from these serious health issues, there's also the ethical dilemma of artificial colors. Animals have been used in the past as test subjects for these artificial chemicals, but they are not utilized to make Starburst brilliant and colorful.

Animal testing subjects helpless animals to painful and scary experiments that can be harmful to their health. Surprisingly, they're occasionally killed off towards the end of the tests if they make it that far. Many vegans avoid items that have been tested on animals because of these inhumane methods.

Sugar

Many vegans consider sugar to be a non-vegan product. In our article "Is Tomato Ketchup Vegan?" you can learn more about the sugar debate. The main point of contention is the processing of sugar.

During the processing of white sugar, the majority of it is filtered through animal bone char. As bone char is an animal product, most vegans deem white sugar itself to be a non-vegan product, even when there is no bone char in the sugar.

Apart from this, the amount of sugar contained in Starburst is absolutely not healthy for you. I will go so far as to suggest that it is certainly not healthy.

Starburst has 5.5 teaspoons of sugar per serving, while a complete container of Starburst contains 33 grams of sugar (nearly nine teaspoons!). That is about the amount of sugar you should consume in a single day with only one candy bar!

Vegan alternatives

Although Starburst isn't always vegan, there are times when you just can't resist the allure of a fruit chew. So, what are your options? You might always look at a few of the vegan Starburst alternatives that are available!

Trujoy Organic Fruit Chews

With Trujoy Organic Fruit Chews, you don't have to be concerned about white sugar or bone char. You're safe since organic sugar can't be filtered by bone char.

These tasty and juicy fruit chews are created entirely from natural and organic materials. They are also gluten-free, vegan-certified, and free of the majority of allergies.

Wholesome Organic Fruit Chews

You might also try Wholesome Organic Fruit Chews as an alternative. These chews have the same flavors, just like the original Starburst (strawberry, lemon, cherry, and orange), but they're free of bone char filtered sugar or artificial colors. They are organic, vegan, gluten-free, and very tasty.

Making your own

While they may not be precisely what you're looking for if you're craving a fruit chew, they'll satisfy your want in a healthier and vegan-friendly way.

Conclusion

The vegan status of Starburst varies by region, which adds an intriguing twist to the normal basic issue of "is it vegan?" However, the answer to the issue of whether these sweets are healthful is a resounding no.

If you want a sweet treat, there are several vegan alternatives to Starburst, but keep in mind that they aren't exactly healthy foods. Remember, if at all, all processed foods should be consumed in moderation.

To address the single question of whether or not vegans may consume golden syrup, we can say that “Yes” is the answer.

Continue reading to learn more about golden syrup.

More About Golden Syrup

Golden syrup is a thick, amber-colored syrup made from a combination of water, citric acid, sugar beet juice, or sugar cane juice. It’s a delectable sweet delight that’s a great and popular honey replacement.

You may use it in any recipe that calls for honey, such as pancakes, waffles, and ginger cakes.

This golden syrup is completely vegan and does not include any animal derivatives. As a result, you may use it in any of your favorite baking recipes or sweets. As a result, this golden syrup is an outstanding plant-based honey replacement.

There are also specialist brands that produce a whole plant-based golden syrup, which gives you even more alternatives.

Best whole plant-based golden syrups

Lyle’s

Lyle’s, with its vegan-friendly golden syrup, is one of the firms at the top of the list. For many individuals, it is a well-known brand. They provide goods that are completely vegan-friendly. Their chocolate-flavored syrup, on the other hand, contains skimmed milk powder and condensed milk. As a result, it contains no animal products apart from this one taste. You can get your hands on them easily on Amazon.

Silver spoon

Another well-known British brand is The Silver Spoon. It creates golden syrup that vegans may enjoy without fear. However, there are some items that you must avoid since they may contain eggs. As a result, properly reading the labels before making any purchase is always the best option. This brand additionally ensures that none of their regular sugars are processed with bone char. Bone char is a charred animal bone that is used to produce sugar, and it is a concern for vegans.

Ragus

Ragus, which is likewise situated in the United Kingdom, is another firm worth mentioning. It’s really interesting that the company’s creator, Charles Eastwick, is the man who created and launched the whole golden syrup craze. As a result, you can be confident that Ragus understands how to make the greatest vegan-friendly golden syrup available.

Rayner’s

Rayner’s Fairtrade golden syrup is made from 100 percent organic ingredients and is appropriate for vegetarians and vegans. It has no preservatives, artificial flavorings, or gluten.

Homemade Golden Syrup

It may not be as simple to locate vegan golden syrup in stores in the United States as they are mostly in the United Kingdom. As a result, you may always save time and money by making your own golden syrup.

You’ll need the following ingredients:

• ¾ fresh lemon
• 800 g white sugar
• 600 ml of water

Instruction

• Fill a medium pot halfway with water, sugar, and lemon juice. It’s preferable to use a ceramic or stainless steel saucepan since it uniformly distributes heat and prevents sugar from burning.
• Cook the mixture over medium heat and occasionally stir until the sugar has dissolved. Allow it to boil for 1 hour and 30 minutes on low heat without stirring once it has dissolved. As you cook, you’ll see that the color of the mixture gradually changes to amber, almost like honey.
• Make sure the mixture has a little runny consistency and isn’t as thick as honey because it will thicken even more as it cools.
• Allow the mixture to cool fully before transferring it to a glass jar and tightly closing the lid.
• It’s preferable to wait two weeks for the syrup to develop before using it. This step is crucial because the consistency thickens, and, strangely, the flavor improves as it rests longer.

Conclusion

That is all. Finally, your vegan golden syrup is ready for consumption.

It has a long shelf life as well. This syrup can be kept at room temperature for up to 6 months.

So, sure, vegans may consume golden syrup since it is fully vegan. The makers of vegan golden syrup always make sure that their goods are made in a vegan-friendly manner.

What’s more, you may decide to produce your own homemade golden syrup, which is simple and quick to prepare.

Cheetos are one of the most well-known childhood foods. Bags of Cheetos may be found at grocery shops and convenience stores all throughout the United States and the world!

If you're a vegan, you might be wondering if Hot Cheetos are vegan. Continue reading to find out more about this famous savory snack, including whether Hot Cheetos are vegan or vegetarian, important ingredients, and vegan alternatives!

What Are Hot Cheetos?

Hot Cheetos, like other Frito-Lay products like Doritos, Lays, and Sun Chips, are usually found on the chips aisle.

The Frito-Lay Snacks division, which is owned by Pepsi, produces Hot Cheetos. Flamin' Hot Cheetos is a hot snack with a cheesy taste that is one of the Cheetos variants. It's fashioned like a long red twisted straw and has the crispness of a potato chip.

What Is A Vegan Diet?

An individual who follows a vegan diet does not consume any animal products or components. Vegans eat foods that come from plants, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds.

Vegans avoid the following foods:

• Dairy Products
• Meat
• Honey
• Fish
• Eggs

Vegans can replace animal products with plant-based milk, tempeh, tofu, almonds, seeds, maple syrup, and other alternatives.

List Of Ingredients In Flamin Hot Cheetos

Flamin' Hot Cheetos are a cheesy snack produced with authentic cheese, as per package. While the original recipe contains a variety of artificial and processed components, it does contain cheddar cheese and other dairy products, which is the primary reason why Hot Cheetos are not vegan.

The following is a list of artificial and natural components included in Hot Cheetos:

• Salt
• Enriched Corn Meal (it includes Corn Meal, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid)
• Vegetable Oil (a mix of corn, canola, and/or sunflower)
• Flamin' Hot Seasoning (here is where the cheese and artificial additives are added!)

Is Hot Cheetos Vegan?

• Cheddar cheese
• Milk
• Whey
• Whey protein concentrate
• Buttermilk

Vegans don't eat milk or cheese; therefore, Hot Cheetos aren't a viable snack option for them. As a general rule, if you are vegan, I recommend checking the contents list of packaged items carefully to decide whether the product is ideal for vegans or not!

Vegan-Friendly Alternatives for Hot Cheetos

There's good news if you like the taste of Hot Cheetos! There are a few packaged food options that taste like Flamin' Hot Cheetos but aren't as spicy.

Doritos Chilli Heatwave

Not all Doritos chips are vegan, so read the ingredient list carefully before buying. The Chilli Heatwave flavor will satiate your taste buds if you desire a bit of spice, especially if consumed with a salsa dip.

Pringles Sweet Chilli

These aren't as hot as Hot Cheetos, but they still pack a punch and taste great. Sweet Chilli Pringles are vegan, but keep an eye out for additional varieties like Salt and Vinegar or Prawn cocktails. The Pringles chip line does not include any vegan choices.

Nik Naks

Nik Naks are a British snack that resembles Hot Cheetos in look, being long and slightly rough in shape. Nik Nak flavors like Nice 'N' Spicy and Rib 'N' Saucy are excellent vegan substitutes for Hot Cheetos.

When it comes to taking care of our skin, we all want the best of the best. After all, our skin is exposed to irritants and pollutants on a daily basis – and it can very quickly begin to look tired when we don’t take care of it. As a result, it’s no surprise that the brands known for their range of sensitive skincare products, such as Cetaphil, have gained more and more attention over the past few years. But does Cetaphil tick more boxes than one? Is Cetaphil cruelty-free and vegan, or is it one of the many brands that still tests on animals?

To help you out, we’ve investigated Cetaphil and its cruelty-free credentials to see whether it deserves a spot in your bathroom cabinet. Is Cetaphil cruelty-free and vegan? Here’s what we know in 2022.

Is Cetaphil cruelty-free?

Here’s what the Cetaphil frequently asked questions (FAQs) say in response to whether the brand tests on animals:

“As a responsible corporate citizen, animal welfare is also a key priority for the company. For this reason, Galderma does not test Cetaphil products or ingredients used in Cetaphil on animals at any stage of our product innovation, development or manufacturing processes. 

Galderma has been utilizing industry-recognized, non-animal testing methodologies on its Cetaphil brand even before regulations prohibiting animal testing on cosmetics came into force in various countries.

These efforts are part of our commitment to ensuring the safety of our products, the wellbeing of our consumers and our contribution to society at large.

Nevertheless, some health authorities may conduct animal testing for certain cosmetic products prior to approval for sale on the market, as is still the case in China.”

Please note that although China relaxed some of its animal testing regulations in 2021 – a great victory – they are yet to be removed altogether. So, unfortunately, Cetaphil cannot be considered cruelty-free while it allows its products to be sold there.

You can check out the full statement on whether Cetaphil and Galderma test on animals here.

You can read more about animal testing and why it should be banned completely in our blog, available to check out here.

Is Cetaphil vegan?

After all, there are two major elements to consider when deciding whether a brand is vegan:

• Does it test on animals?
• Are its product ingredients vegan-friendly?

Unfortunately, while Cetaphil allows its products to be tested on animals, it’s fallen at the first hurdle. But are any of its products vegan-friendly? If Cetaphil pledged to go cruelty-free in the near future, are there any products that you could buy with confidence?

We investigated, and at first, it wasn’t looking good. Just a quick inspection of Cetaphil products showed ingredients that may have come from animal sources, including stearic acid, glycerin, and capric acid.

However, Cetaphil came to the rescue with a clear-cut answer! Here’s what the brand says:

“Cetaphil products do not consist of any animal-derived ingredients and are not tested on animals.”

We’re glad to read this, as it means there’s a chance for Cetaphil to earn its cruelty-free credentials after all! With one box ticked, there’s just one left to go. We’ll keep an eye out for any updates from the brand with regards to this.

Vegan & cruelty-free alternatives to Cetaphil

Cetaphil is known for its wide range of skincare products, from its oily skin cleansers to its moisturisers with added sun protection. However, it’s not the only brand with a collection of skin-friendly products worth knowing about! At Vegomm, we like to give vegan and cruelty-free brands a chance to shine, which is why we’ve listed a few ethical places to buy your skincare. Happy shopping!

Kylie Cosmetics

Kylie Jenner may not be vegan herself, but we have to give credit where it’s due – her brand, Kylie Cosmetics, certainly is! In fact, according to the brand’s FAQs, it’s also cruelty-free. Result! Plus, with its dedicated skincare line, KylieSkin, you’ll be able to buy all the serums, face masks, and toners you want. You can take a look for yourself here.

Lush

We can always rely on Lush to give up the goods when it comes to vegan and cruelty-free skincare. With a gorgeous range of creamy cleansing balms, hydrating moisturisers, refreshing exfoliators and much more, Lush offers everything you need to keep your skin happy and healthy. You can start filling your basket here.

Buddha Beauty

According to this animal testing declaration, Buddha Beauty is not just cruelty-free, but also founded by vegans! What could be better? It also offers a wide range of wonderful skincare products to choose from, alongside home fragrances, massage oils, and bath products. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all your skincare needs, Buddha Beauty could just be the one!

At Vegomm, we’re committed to helping vegans everywhere shop with confidence. We know it can be difficult to source cruelty-free products, which is why we like to take the matter out of your hands! Throughout our website, you’ll find guides to everything from the best vegan restaurants in Sheffield to the faux leather sofas we love.

We’d love to know what else you’d like to see, so get in touch to let us know!

Dove is one of the most widely recognised beauty and personal hygiene brands in the world, and you’ll no doubt have come across its products before. Dove is marketed as a brand that empowers everyone, everywhere to feel their best – but does the same apply to animals? Is Dove cruelty-free and vegan in 2022?

As vegans, it can be difficult to cut through the noise and figure out which of the thousands of beauty brands available to us is ethical. That’s why we’ve committed to finding the most up to date information possible regarding well-known brands like Dove, so you can take the stress out of shopping.

Read on to discover whether Dove is cruelty-free and vegan in 2022, with everything you need to know about whether this household name brand tests on animals.

Is Dove cruelty-free in 2022?

So, is Dove cruelty-free? Let’s answer this in two parts, as it’s not quite a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question.

The first part of the question is: does Dove test on animals? This is the overarching question that must be answered to determine whether a brand is cruelty-free or not. According to PETA, Dove does not test on animals and has committed to upholding this ban across the world. This has earned Dove a place on PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies list.

This has been confirmed by Dove, which says:

“Dove does not test on animals. For over 30 years, we’ve used multiple alternative, non-animal approaches to test the safety of our products and ingredients. We have removed all permissions for testing of our products by governments on our behalf.”

Nevertheless, just a quick search on the Dove website suggests that the brand continues to sell its products in China. Although mandatory animal testing in China ended for most general cosmetics in 2021, some products are still subject to animal testing. For many people, this is proof that China hasn’t gone far enough to eradicate animal testing for cosmetic purposes and is the number one reason why beauty brands should refuse to sell products throughout the country.

What do you think? Would you be comfortable using Dove products?

Is Dove going cruelty-free?

The next question you might be wondering is, is Dove going cruelty-free? It’s certainly looking positive, now that the brand is certified by PETA. However, it’s difficult to predict whether Dove will take the next steps to become completely ethical and sustainable.

We recommend keeping an eye out for any news that Dove has been certified by Cruelty Free International. According to the organisation, a brand must agree to ‘ongoing independent audits to ensure compliance’ and implement a series of systems and checks to ensure every step of the supply chain is in adherence.

PETA, on the other hand, appears to have a less strict approach. According to its website, joining its Beauty Without Bunnies list requires brands to verify that ‘that they and their suppliers do not conduct, commission, pay for, or allow any tests on animals for their ingredients, formulations, or finished products anywhere in the world and that they will never do so in the future.’

As a result, many vegans and cruelty-free shoppers appear to trust Cruelty Free International significantly more. So, if you’re curious as to whether Dove is going cruelty-free, this might be where you choose to look.

Is Dove vegan in 2022?

Even if you’re completely satisfied by Dove’s cruelty-free credentials, you’ll struggle to find products that are certified vegan.

Here’s what Dove has to say on the matter:

“We know some of our community are looking for vegan products, and we are exploring routes to offer vegan-accredited Dove products to meet this demand.”

We also inspected some of the most popular Dove products available to purchase online and found ingredients that may or may not be vegan. These include stearic acid, glycerin and glycol distearate, which can be derived from plant or animal sources. If the source from which they’re obtained isn’t stated, and the product isn’t certified vegan, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. 

What’s more, a brand can only be considered truly vegan if it’s also cruelty-free. As there’s doubt about whether Dove fits the bill here, it seems there’s still some progress to be made before the vegan community starts shopping for Dove products.

Vegan & cruelty-free personal care brands 

If Dove is currently a no-go for vegan and cruelty-free personal care and beauty products (we hope this will change soon!), then where else can you buy the same standard of creams and lotions? Below, we’ve listed some of the vegan and cruelty-free personal care brands that are changing the game in 2022.

Biossance

-       Biossance cruelty-free credentials will wow you! This clean beauty brand is certified by both PETA and Leaping Bunny, offers carbon neutral shipping, and even protects sharks with its vegan squalene! You can read more here.

Vegan by happy skin

-       Vegan by Happy Skin describes itself as a ‘natural, vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand’, with enough serums, moisturisers and cleansers to fill a whole bathroom! You can start shopping here.

Faith in Nature

-       Faith in Nature has everything you need to champion sustainable skincare, from soap bars to refillable body wash cartons. Plus, Faith in Nature states that its products are vegan, ethical and cruelty-free, which is great news for us!

At Vegomm, it’s our vision to make being vegan a piece of (plant-based) cake. That’s why we go the extra mile to help you shop cruelty-free and ethical products, whether you’re looking for face moisturisers, faux leather jackets, or advent calendars at Christmas! Keep up to date for everything you need to know.

It would be an understatement to say that Charlotte Tilbury is one of the world’s favourite makeup brands. It’s gained a bit of a cult following over the past few years amongst celebrities and makeup influencers, with founder, Charlotte Tilbury MBE, gaining status as one of the most impressive makeup artists of our time. There is no surprise why charlotte tilbury's pillow talk dupes has rapidly become one of the most popular and well-loved shades across the world. But the magic question remains. Is Charlotte Tilbury cruelty-free and vegan in 2023?

We’ve put together this handy guide to help you shop for Charlotte Tilbury products with ease, with all you need to know about the brand’s vegan and cruelty-free credentials.

Is Charlotte Tilbury makeup cruelty-free?

This is verified by the official Cruelty Free International website, with CEO Michelle Thew saying:

“I am thrilled to be partnering with Charlotte Tilbury Beauty and bringing great cruelty free choices to consumers everywhere.”

So, there we go! Cruelty-free shoppers, Charlotte Tilbury can be added to your list of approved brands.

Is Charlotte Tilbury vegan?

Charlotte Tilbury may be cruelty-free, but is it vegan? This is a more complicated question to answer, and there are two parts to think about:

1. Is Charlotte Tilbury cruelty-free?
2. Does Charlotte Tilbury commit to only using vegan makeup formulas?

As we’ve discussed, the answer to the first question is a yes.

The second is a little more difficult to answer. Not all Charlotte Tilbury makeup is vegan, but many products are. In fact, the makeup brand is known for having a wide range of vegan makeup products, which you can take a look at here. Whether you’re looking for a vegan foundation or brow gel, Charlotte Tilbury has you covered!

With this in mind, your decision to shop there will depend on whether you only buy from 100% vegan brands. Many people do, but many other vegans are comfortable buying from brands as long as the product itself is vegan and cruelty-free.

Five vegan Charlotte Tilbury products

To help you find Charlotte Tilbury products with vegan-friendly formulas, we’ve compiled a list of products listed as ‘vegan’ on the brand’s website.

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Vegan Foundation

According to the Charlotte Tilbury website, Charlotte’s Beautiful Skin Foundation has a vegan-friendly formula. It’s also available in a plethora of shades, packed full of hydrating ingredients and available to buy here.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Diamonds Vegan Lipstick

Another vegan-friendly product is the Pillow Talk Diamonds lipstick, with an illuminating glow and microcrystalline wax, a vegan substitute for beeswax. You can take a look for yourself here.

Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips Vegan Lipstick

If you’re looking for a brighter, bolder vegan lipstick, Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips could be the one for you! This matte lipstick comes in a variety of popping colours, with a matte formula that makes it perfect for everyday wear. You can choose your favourite tone here!

Charlotte Tilbury Brightening Youth Glow

Want that perfect, airbrushed look? This vegan-friendly Brightening Youth Glow is here to illuminate your skin, with added moisturiser, natural oils and plant extracts. Get your Brightening Youth Glow here!

Charlotte Tilbury Glossy Black Mascara

Unfortunately, not all mascaras are vegan-friendly. However, thanks to Charlotte Tilbury, you can give your lashes extra length without worry! The Full Fat Lashes mascara is a 5-in-1 product with synthetic beeswax for that volumising effect. It’s available to buy here.

Which vegan Charlotte Tilbury products have taken your fancy? Get in touch to let us know, and don’t hesitate to keep us updated if you find any other vegan-friendly makeup brands worth knowing about!

How to find vegan and cruelty-free makeup brands: Top tips

Imagine you’re browsing the shelves for a new foundation, lipstick, or highlighter – but you just have no idea which ones are vegan and cruelty-free. Shopping for makeup can be frustrating, right? Right!

That’s why we’ve summarised some of our top tips below to help you find cruelty-free makeup with ease, whether you’re shopping online or in-store.

1. Keep up with vegan blogs! Many beauty blogs and influencers make it their mission to keep up to date with cruelty-free and vegan makeup brands, and will let you know when they find some must-have products! Simply search online for vegan and cruelty-free makeup blogs, or take a look for influencers via your social media accounts.
2. You can check out a range of cruelty-free makeup brands via the Cruelty Free International website. From cleaning products to makeup and toiletries, you can find a whole host of brands that have adapted their manufacturing methods and ingredients to become Leaping Bunny certified. However, do remember that a brand may be Leaping Bunny verified, but not necessarily vegan.
3. Head to the ‘vegan’ or ‘cruelty-free’ section in makeup shops. Thanks to the rising demand for vegan and cruelty-free makeup, many pharmacies and beauty shops now have dedicated sections for products that meet these criteria. Don’t forget to double-check the products if you’re not sure, just in case they’ve been put in the wrong section accidentally.

Of course, you can always stay in the loop here at Vegomm! We’re passionate about making life easier for vegans, with our range of helpful guides, advice articles and top tips. Whether you’re looking for the best vegan restaurants in the UK or searching for vegan-friendly fashion, we’ve got you covered!

Constantly checking whether or not your favourite beauty and skincare brands are vegan and cruelty-free can be frustrating. However, it’s a must if you want to live as ethically and sustainably as possible. Here, we shine a light on NARS Cosmetics, a French brand that’s becoming increasingly popular in the UK, asking the question: is NARS cruelty-free and vegan in 2022?

NARS Cosmetics: What Do You Need to Know?

NARS Cosmetics, known as NARS, is a makeup and skincare brand with a large portfolio of products. According to the brand’s Instagram page, it was founded in 1994 by François Nars – a makeup artist and photographer with a vision to make everyone feel beautiful.

Is NARS Cruelty-free?

To be deemed cruelty-free, a brand must commit to not testing its products (or any of the ingredients in its products) on animals. This also means saying no to testing in countries or regions that legally require animal testing. China has traditionally requested this, and although it’s phasing out some of its stricter policies surrounding animal testing, not enough progress has been achieved yet.

Although NARS products haven’t always been sold in China, they are today and have been since 2017. As a result, NARS is not a cruelty-free makeup and skincare brand.

You can read part of NARS’ statement below:

"NARS does not test on animals or ask others to do so on our behalf, except where required by law. NARS is committed and actively working to advance alternative testing methods. We are proud to support the Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS), a globally recognised organisation at the forefront of advancing non-animal methods in China and around the world. NARS is hopeful that together, we can work toward a cruelty-free world."

Lots of NARS fans were upset and angry by the company’s decision to sell products in mainland China – and this isn’t surprising. A study that was taken just two years before NARS’ controversial decision showed that not tested on animals is the claim that consumers find the most important when reading a product’s packaging.

And, this sentiment is only growing. Today, more people than ever before are vehemently against animal experimentation – with a 2021 YouGov study finding that almost 70% of Brits want to see an end to animal testing for medical research. Attitudes are clearly changing, and beauty brands like NARS need to keep up.

Is NARS Vegan?

Although some NARS products are prepared with vegan formulas, including its famous Light Reflecting Foundation, it cannot be deemed a vegan-friendly brand. To be ‘vegan’, NARS would need to create an exclusively vegan line, and commit to not allowing animal testing on any of its makeup or skincare products.

What’s more, many NARS products contain animal ingredients and byproducts. Just a quick scan of the NARS website shows that many of its products contain cera alba (beeswax), lanolin and carmine. These are all ingredients that have been derived from animals and are therefore not vegan.

Cruelty-free vs Vegan Makeup & Skincare

It’s important to clarify the difference between the terms ‘cruelty-free’ and ‘vegan’ in the makeup and skincare industry.

For products to be cruelty-free, they must not have been tested on animals. As we’ve mentioned, this also means that they cannot be sold in any country where animal testing is required by law. For products to be vegan, they must not contain any animal-derived ingredients. They must also be cruelty-free i.e. they must not have been tested on animals.

Where it gets tricky is that all vegan products are cruelty-free, but not all cruelty-free products are vegan. After all, a makeup brand may have a cruelty-free range that contains animal byproducts.

Remember these rules when you’re shopping for makeup and skincare, and you’ll be able to curate a toiletries bag as ethically as possible!

Vegan & Cruelty-free NARS Alternatives

Now we’ve determined that NARS is neither cruelty-free nor vegan, it’s time to find products and brands that are! Below, we’ve listed some of our favourite vegan makeup and skincare brands with brilliant alternatives to some of NARS’ best-selling products.

Bronzer by PHB Ethical Beauty

One of NARS’ best-selling products is its Bronzing Powder, which helps to give a sun-kissed glow and really warm up your skin tone. However, if you’re looking for a vegan and cruelty-free alternative, PHB Ethical Beauty has you covered. This bronzer promises an equally soft blend – complete with added sun protection – and even comes in plastic-free packaging. You can get your hands on PHB Ethical Beauty’s bronzer here.

Pure Pressed Blush by Jane Iredale

Jane Iredale is all about connecting consumers to clean beauty, but it also happens to offer a fantastic dupe for NARS’ famous Orgasm Blush. The Pure Pressed Blush by Jane Iredale can be used on your skin and lips, making it a highly versatile addition to your makeup bag, and is formulated with a beautiful rosy tint. You can purchase it from Be Kind Beauty here.

KVD Beauty Go Big or Go Home

We can always rely on Kat Von D’s makeup brand, KVD Beauty, to bring some of the best alternatives to non-vegan makeup products. NARS fans looking for an ethical substitute to its Climax Extreme Mascara will love KVD Beauty’s Go Big or Go Home mascara, which uses plant-based fats to give it its texture and extreme pigment. Want to give your lashes some volume? You can get your hands on Go Big or Go Home here!

Urban Decay Stay Naked Concealer

NARS’ Radiant Creamy Concealer is known for offering great coverage and illuminating your skin, but it’s neither vegan nor cruelty-free – unlike the Stay Naked Concealer from Urban Decay. Alongside attracting a bit of a cult following amongst makeup fans, Urban Decay offers a wide range of cruelty-free products with vegan formulas, including this velvety smooth concealer. You can get it here or find a full list of our recommended vegan concealers here!

Do you think NARS will ever become cruelty-free and vegan? We certainly hope so! Let us know your thoughts or comment below with your favourite NARS alternatives.

At Vegomm, we’re here to help you discover which of the UK’s favourite beauty brands are cruelty-free and vegan. Now, we’re turning our sights to one of the world’s best-loved skincare companies – La Roche-Posay. With celebrity fans like Sarah Jessica Parker, Anne Hathaway and Alexa Chung, it’s no surprise that this French skincare brand has made a name for itself – but is La Roche-Posay cruelty-free and vegan in 2022?

Here, we take a deep dive into whether La Roche-Posay is cruelty-free and highlight some of the best vegan products on the market right now – with everything from skin-plumping serums to hydrating moisturisers with added sun protection.

Is La Roche-Posay Cruelty-free?

When it comes to the reason why La Roche-Posay isn’t cruelty-free, it’s a tale as old as time. Like many other makeup brands, such as NARS, Benefit and MAC, La Roche-Posay sells its products in mainland China – where many products are legally required to be tested on animals.

Although China has taken steps to move away from this inhumane and unnecessary rule, it hasn’t outlawed cosmetics animal testing altogether. Therefore, it’s likely that many brands exporting products to China are paying third parties to test them on animals.

This includes La Roche-Posay, which means we can’t consider it cruelty-free.

Is La Roche-Posay Vegan?

A brand can only be considered vegan if it eradicates animal cruelty and exploitation from its supply chain, which La Roche-Posay hasn’t done. And, in addition to selling products in countries where animal testing is required, many creams and moisturisers from La Roche-Posay contain animal-derived ingredients.

Many La Roche-Posay products are packed full of chemicals and ingredients with impossible-to-pronounce names, so it’s difficult to look for vegan formulas. However, until La Roche-Posay promises to make animal testing a thing of the past, they’re unlikely to create a huge vegan fan base.

La Roche-Posay & L’Óreal Paris: A Cruelty-free Partnership?

La Roche-Posay is also part of L’Óreal Paris, which is neither cruelty-free nor vegan. Although the brand claims to be against animal testing, it admits that its products will be subject to animal experimentation when sold in countries where it’s a legal obligation to do so.

However, L’Óreal Paris also says:

“L'Oréal has been the most active company working alongside the Chinese authorities and scientists for over 10 years to have alternative testing methods recognised, and permit the cosmetic regulation to evolve towards a total and definite elimination of animal testing.”

L’Óreal Paris

It’s great to read that a company with the influence and audience of L’Óreal Paris is working alongside the Chinese government to rally against animal testing. However, while brands continue to allow their products to be tested on by third parties, it’s difficult to believe their claim that they’re committed to a world without animal experimentation.

Vegan & Cruelty-free Alternatives to La Roche-Posay Products

Everyone wants to protect their skin, but you don’t need to shop at La Roche-Posay to do so! We’ve searched for brilliant vegan alternatives to some of their most popular lines and products, from La Roche-Posay sunscreen dupes to after sun creams with cruelty-free formulas.

Daily Sunscreen Invisible Shield from Glossier

La Roche-Posay is known for its range of sumptuous skincare products with added sun protection, but there are plenty of great alternatives that are both vegan and cruelty-free. This lightweight suncream from Glossier offers a non-greasy formula that won’t feel too heavy or cakey on your face. Plus, with SPF 30, it’s a great dupe for La Roche-Posay’s famous sunscreen, Anthelious Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid.

One of La Roche-Posay’s unique selling points is that its products are tested by dermatologists, but you’ll be pleased to know that this daily suncream from Glossier also ticks this box. You can get your hands on it here.

Bee Free Lip Balm from Eco Lips

If you’ve been searching for a vegan and cruelty-free alternative to Nutritic Lips from La Roche-Posay, the Bee Free range is the one for you. You can explore the many flavours on offer here.

HALO Gentle Foaming Skin Cleanser from Oodee

Want bright and beautiful skin? Then it’s time to try the HALO Gentle Foaming Skin Cleanser from Oodee, found here. With a formula that’s blended to purify your pores and keep your skin clear from dirt and other nasties, this cleanser is the ideal substitute for La Roche-Posay’s Toleraine Softening Foaming Gel Cleanser.

Oodee really uses the power of plants, with rice protein, lentils and prickly pear amongst the ingredients listed in this cleanser. It’s also free from all 14 food allergens and 26 fragrance allergens!

The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid + B5

Hyaluronic acid is being touted as today’s must-have beauty product, with many people swearing by it to achieve supple and richly hydrated skin. However, what many people don’t realise is that not all hyaluronic acid-based skin products aren’t vegan-friendly. Luckily, The Ordinary is here with its Hyaluronic Acid + B5 serum that promises “multi-depth hydration and visible plumping”. It’s also oil-free, silicone-free and gluten-free, alongside being vegan and cruelty-free.

So, if you’ve been looking for a replacement for the Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum from La Roche-Posay, this could just be the perfect pick for you.

Vitamin C SPF 30 Moisturising Face Lotion from The Body Shop

Finding a truly hydrating moisturiser with added UV protection doesn’t have to be difficult with The Body Shop’s range of vegan products. Like La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Facial Moisturiser, The Body Shop’s Vitamin C Moisturising Face Lotion promises to illuminate your skin from within. And, with added SPF, it’ll help protect your body’s largest organ against harmful UV rays.

Unlike La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Facial Moisturiser, however, this product is both vegan and cruelty-free. You can buy it from your local The Body Shop or get your hands on it online, here.

Do you think La Roche-Posay will go cruelty-free and vegan soon? What are your favourite moisturiser, serum, lip balm and sunscreen dupes? Let us know!

If you’re anything like us, you’ll love waking up on the weekend and cooking a full English breakfast, or spending your summer evenings grilling veggie kebabs on the BBQ. And, now that vegan sausages have come a long way, you no longer need to miss out on all your favourite dishes! From sausage sandwiches at lunch to sausage casserole for dinner, there’s no end to the recipes you can try with meat-free pork alternatives. You’ll no doubt have heard of Richmond vegan sausages – but what do you need to know before you give them a try?

Everything You Need to Know About Richmond Vegan Sausages

Richmond has been one of Britain’s favourite sausage brands since the 1980s, and to this day you’ll see packets of Richmond sausages in almost every supermarket. So, vegans everywhere were delighted when Richmond turned its sights to cracking the plant-based market! Below, find everything you need to know about Richmond vegan sausages and why they’re a must-have addition to your fridge.

Are All Richmond Sausages Vegan?

It’s important to note that not all Richmond sausages are vegan. Please be careful when picking up a packet of Richmond sausages and don’t forget to double-check that the packaging states ‘meat-free’. They’ll usually be kept separate from real pork sausages in the supermarket and stored alongside other vegetarian and vegan products, but it’s worth checking nonetheless.

Are Richmond Meat-free Sausages Tasty?

We think they’re delicious! Of course, you’ll need to try them to see for yourself. However, in terms of taste and texture, they’re truly mouth-watering. In fact, in this comparative review of vegan sausages – comparing those from Quorn, Linda McCartney, Sainsbury’s and Richmond – it was Richmond that stole the show!

Richmond Vegan Sausages: What Are Their Ingredients?

According to the Richmond website, their meat-free sausages contain the following ingredients:

Water, Rehydrated Textured SOYA Protein Concentrate (16%) (Water, SOYA Protein, WHEAT Protein, Salt, SOYA Bean Oil, Natural Flavouring), Rusk (WHEAT), Coconut Oil, SOYA Protein Concentrate (4%), Chicory Root Fibre.

As they contain wheat, they are not gluten-free.

How Many Calories Are in Richmond Vegan Sausages?

Wondering how many calories are in a Richmond vegan sausage?

According to Tesco, two grilled Richmond vegan sausages (79g) contain 115 calories. This is in comparison to 111 calories for just one Richmond pork sausage (46g).

Are Richmond Vegan Sausages Healthy?

The health benefits of veganism are clear, but that’s not to say that all vegan products – particularly mock meats – are nutritionally valuable. When eaten in moderation, all products can form part of a balanced diet, including Richmond vegan sausages. Nevertheless, they still contain fairly high levels of salt and fat and should be eaten as a treat.

Where Can I Buy Richmond Vegan Sausages?

You can buy Richmond vegan sausages from most major supermarkets, including Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Waitrose.

What Recipes Can I Use Richmond Vegan Sausages In?

There are plenty of delicious recipes to cook with Richmond vegan sausages. You can use them as a substitute in any recipe that uses pork sausages, whether it’s a sausage butty, bangers and mash, barbequed sausages or sausage rolls. However, if you’d like to get a little more creative, you can prepare a range of other dishes.

Richmond offers a selection of recipes to inspire you, each using their famous vegan sausages.

Why not try this meat-free sausage, spinach and tomato pasta?

Or, how about ‘veganising’ this sausage, roasted veg and puy lentil one-pot recipe from BBC Good Food?

Meat-free sausages can also be cooked in pies, used in toad in the hole, or flattened into patties for a tasty breakfast bun.

Does Richmond Sell Any Other Vegan Products?

Yes! Richmond vegan sausages may be the most famous product from the brand’s meat-free range, but they’re not the only goodies suitable for vegans. You can also buy vegan bacon, meatballs, burgers and mince from Richmond, although they’re not yet as widely available in supermarkets. We hope this will change soon!

Other Vegan Sausage Brands

Vegan sausages aren’t exactly few and far between these days! In fact, there are myriad brands with truly mouth-watering and 100% meat-free products available to buy in-store and online. Whether you’re a fan of vegan sausages that offer the taste and texture of real pork, or you prefer vegetable-based patties that are slightly less processed, there’s a brand for you.

Below, we’ve listed some of the most popular vegan sausages available to buy in the UK:

Quorn Brilliant Bangers

Quorn has been dominating the meat-free market for some time now. And, although not every Quorn product is vegan-friendly, the Brilliant Bangers are both suitable for vegans and incredibly delicious.

Cauldron Sausages

Cauldron is another brand that has been making vegan food accessible for a while, with plenty of different meat-free sausages amongst its extensive range. From Lincolnshire-style sausages with sage and parsley, to Cumberland sausages seasoned with black pepper, there are lots of options to choose from when you buy from Cauldron. 

Asda Plant Based Sausages

Alongside selling a wide selection of vegan products from other brands, Asda also offers its own Plant Based range – and its meat-free sausages are certainly worth trying! They’re both vegan and gluten-free, with an accreditation from The Vegan Society.

THIS™ Isn’t Pork Plant-based Sausages

We love THIS™ products, and these mock pork sausages will show you why! They’re rich in protein and fibre while being low in saturated fat, making them the perfect plant-based alternative to real pork bangers.

Plant Pioneers Shroomdogs

Sainsbury’s Plant Pioneers range is growing quickly, which is great news for UK vegans! In particular, the Plant Pioneers Shroomdogs – made from mushrooms, hence the name – are certainly worth a try, with a subtle peppery flavour that pairs perfectly with ketchup.

Beyond Meat Sausage

You’ve probably heard of Beyond Meat burgers, but the brand’s range of sausages is just as tempting. With Beyond Meat being an American company, buying its products in the UK can be a little more expensive – but it’s definitely worth it!

What are your favourite plant-based bangers? Have you tried Richmond vegan sausages? We’d love to know your thoughts!

When Baileys first announced that it was releasing a dairy-free version of its famous Irish cream liqueur, it’s safe to say we were excited! Sipping a glass of Baileys with ice has long been a tradition throughout the winter, particularly at Christmas, and vegans throughout the UK were ready to get involved.

But, eagle-eyed shoppers have noticed that for the past couple of years, Baileys Almande has been absent from supermarket shelves. So, is vegan Baileys still available in the UK? And, if not, are there any dairy-free Irish cream liqueur alternatives that you should know about?

Where Can I Buy Vegan Baileys & Is It Still Available?

“Where can I buy vegan Baileys?” is the question we’ve all been asking!

But, unfortunately, Baileys Almande – the vegan alternative to traditional Baileys made with almond and vanilla flavouring – no longer seems to be available to buy in the UK.

Although it’s still featured here on the official Baileys website, it’s not for sale in Asda, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Ocado, or any of the UK’s leading supermarkets. It’s also no longer available on Amazon, the Vegan Kind supermarket, or any other online retailers.

Hopefully, Baileys Almande reappears in time for Christmas 2022. In the meantime, we’ve got you covered with some of the tastiest Irish cream liqueur alternatives, plus a couple of recipes if you’re in the mood to make your own!

The Best Alternatives to Vegan Baileys

While we cross our fingers that Baileys Almande will return to our shelves, here are some of the best vegan alternatives to this classically creamy liqueur. Enjoy!

Vegan Chocolate Coconut Cream Liqueur

Marks and Spencer’s answer to vegan Baileys is one of the most indulgent available! You’ll love this deliciously sweet liqueur, a moreish blend of coconut and chocolate that vegans across the UK fell in love with over Christmas. Marks and Spencer’s has really kicked its range of plant-based goodies up a notch in recent years, and this liqueur is certainly proof of that.

This silky smooth chocolate and coconut cream drink is the ideal accompaniment to a hot chocolate, or poured over ice and enjoyed like a glass of Baileys. It doesn’t appear to be available in Marks and Spencer stores any longer, but luckily you can still get your hands on a bottle here – all thanks to Ocado.

Amarula Vegan Liqueur

Amarula’s coconut-based liqueur is another tempting alternative to vegan Baileys! This velvety drink offers a hint of caramel and, of course, coconut, but you’ll notice another flavour coming through with every sip – marula.

The marula is indigenous to Africa, so you may be yet to try it. However, elephants certainly aren’t shy about tucking into this nutty fruit! In fact, many people believe that elephants eat fermented marula to get drunk. While some researchers have put this rumour to bed, we like to believe it!

You too can enjoy the rich flavours of the marula fruit thanks to Amarula, which is available to order here from Amazon. There are plenty of ways to serve it, including in hot drinks, cocktails and even vegan desserts.

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Dirty Cow Vegan Cre*m Liqueur

This vegan and gluten-free cream liqueur from Dirty Cow is one to remember! Although many vegan Baileys alternatives are produced from almonds or coconut, this drink achieves its whipped consistency through oats. Plus, it contains pea protein, meaning it offers ever-so-slightly more nutritional value than many cream liqueurs.

We love the idea of relaxing around the fire with a glass of Dirty Cow’s vegan Irish cream, or mixing a dash with hot chocolate for a naughty but nice treat. And, while we’re at it, why not indulge in one of their oh-so-tempting chocolate bars? You can explore all the available flavours and get your hands on a bottle of their dairy-free cream liqueur here!

Licor 43 Horchata

Horchata fans, this one is for you! If you’ve ever tried horchata, a traditional Spanish drink made with tiger nuts, you’ll love this completely vegan version from Licor 43. Horchata is sometimes blended with condensed milk, but this dairy-free treat offers all the creaminess with none of the dairy. You’ll also enjoy notes of cinnamon with every sip, making this a must-have drink for the festive season.

Licor 43’s vegan Irish cream can be sipped and savoured in coffee or shaken in a cocktail. Why not imagine you’re on the sunny coast of Valencia with a cool glass of horchata and ice? Whatever you fancy, you can make this luxuriously smooth drink yours thanks to Amazon. It’s up for grabs here.

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Delicious Vegan Baileys Recipes

You might be surprised to know that making your own Irish cream liqueur isn’t very difficult at all. It’s typically made with whisky, cocoa and cream, so once you’ve found vegan substitutes for the cream, you’re good to go!

If you fancy whipping up your own dairy-free Irish cream, we’ve listed some of the simplest recipes below.

This vegan Baileys recipe only uses a handful of ingredients and takes less than five minutes to make. It’s coconut-based and gets its sweetness from vanilla extract and agave, meaning it contains less sugar than many shop-bought alternatives.

This Irish cream liqueur recipe is also super easy to follow. It promises to offer a taste and consistency that perfectly mimics Baileys Almande, with almond milk, cocoa powder and Jameson’s whisky.

Ready to get a little more creative? This vegan chocolate orange Baileys recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. It uses homemade dairy-free condensed milk, which you can also buy separately to save yourself some time.

How to Find Vegan Alcohol

Unfortunately, like many food products, alcohol isn’t always vegan. Various ingredients and distilling processes rely on animals, and therefore it’s always important to check whether your favourite tipple is, in fact, cruelty-free. Frustratingly, you won’t always find dietary or allergen information on wine, beer or spirit labels, which is where Barnivore comes in handy. Simply type in your drink of choice and it’ll let you know whether it’s vegan or not!

Have you ever tried vegan Baileys? What are your favourite alternatives? Let us know!

It’s impossible to enter any pharmacy, supermarket or makeup shop without coming across a Maybelline booth. Maybelline is one of the most popular makeup brands in the world, and with that comes a lot of responsibility – but is Maybelline doing everything it can to be an environmentally friendly or ethical brand?

Does Maybelline test on animals? Is this world-famous makeup brand truly cruelty-free?

Here, we’ve got all the answers to your questions.

Does Maybelline test on animals?

Shopping for cruelty-free makeup is no longer as difficult as it once was, but unfortunately, many global brands are yet to take a firm stance against animal testing – and Maybelline is one of them.

According to Maybelline, owned by parent brand L’Oréal:

L’Oréal no longer tests any of its products or any of its ingredients on animals, anywhere in the world nor does L’Oréal delegate this task to others. An exception could only be made if regulatory authorities demanded it for safety or regulatory purposes.

You can read Maybelline’s full statement here.

So, although Maybelline doesn’t conduct routine animal testing, it cannot be considered cruelty-free while exceptions are still being made. Until Maybelline pledges not to test on animals under any circumstances – and agrees never to allow third parties to test its products on animals – it doesn’t get the cruelty-free stamp of approval.

One such circumstance where Maybelline may permit animal testing is when selling products to consumers in China. Until 2021, it was a legal requirement for makeup brands to conduct pre-market animal testing on their products before they could be sold in China.

Although these laws have since changed for the better, China is yet to ban cosmetic animal testing altogether. As a result, third parties in China may be allowed to test Maybelline products on animals.

Is Maybelline vegan?

As Maybelline hasn’t pledged to become completely cruelty-free, it cannot be considered a vegan-friendly company. Many of its products also contain animal-derived ingredients and byproducts.

However, Maybelline’s ‘Vegan Formula Makeup’ range may cause some confusion. Despite the use of the term ‘vegan’, it’s worth noting that only the formulas meet this definition. The products have not been accredited by a vegan or cruelty-free organisation, so there’s a chance that they may have been tested on animals.

Is L’Oréal cruelty-free?

To be deemed cruelty-free by PETA, a “company must agree that it does not and will not conduct, commission pay for, or allow tests on animals for any of their ingredients, formulations, and products, anywhere in the world”.

Despite not testing on animals since 1989, and since taking positive steps to become a more ethical, animal-friendly brand, L’Oréal does not yet meet these criteria. This is because L’Oréal products can be subject to animal testing in countries or circumstances where it’s a legal requirement.

However, according to its website, L’Oréal is committed to beauty without animal testing. The brand has even pioneered synthetic human skin – one of the most innovative alternatives to animal testing so far.

Hopefully, L’Oréal will soon demonstrate its dedication to animal ethics by making a no-testing pledge. Watch this space!

Cruelty-free and vegan makeup brands

Understandably, you may be disappointed that Maybelline isn’t yet 100% cruelty-free or vegan. However, many fantastic brands are! Thanks to these, you can still fill your makeup bag with high-quality foundation, highlighter, mascara, eyeliner, lipstick and much more without contributing to animal exploitation.

We’ve done our research into cruelty-free and vegan makeup brands and these are five of the most popular in 2022. Happy shopping!

KVD Vegan Beauty

KVD Vegan Beauty, launched by passionate tattoo artist Kat Von D, is a 100% vegan and cruelty-free makeup line helping people across the world express themselves with creativity. If you’re inspired by bright, bold and beautiful makeup, you’ll love the gorgeous range of products available at KVD Vegan Beauty.

We particularly love the Planet Fanatic Eyeshadow Palette with its selection of stunning, earthy tones and fully recyclable packaging.

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PYT Beauty

Vegan, cruelty-free and sustainable, PYT Beauty is a triple threat! Each of its products is made with recycled plastic and free from planet-harming nasties, such as parabens, petroleum and silicone. It’s no wonder PYT Beauty describes its makeup range as “clean” – this environmentally and socially responsible brand ticks all the boxes!

Looking for a new lipstick? PYT Beauty’s Sorry, Not Sorry lipstick, manufactured with 18% recycled plastic, is a must-have.

BITE Beauty

BITE Beauty may be a Canadian makeup company, but many of its products are now available to purchase at Boots. Specialising in lip products, including lipsticks, balms and tints, BITE Beauty is vegan, cruelty-free and inclusive. You won’t find nasties like sulfates, phthalates or GMOs in BITE Beauty products, but natural ingredients such as agave nectar, olive oil and oat flour.

The Yaysayer Plumping Lip Gloss in shade Sugar Drizzle is a particularly gorgeous product packed full of naturally lip-enhancing ingredients such as cinnamon oil.

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Rare Beauty

Selena Gomez fans may already be shopping at Rare Beauty – and you should be, too! This conscious makeup brand is all about creating products that make people and the planet feel good, without a single animal-derived ingredient in sight. You’ll also find makeup for every skin tone, as Rare Beauty aims to be a completely inclusive company with something for everyone.

If it’s time to replace your mascara, the Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara from Rare Beauty could be your next top pick.

Milk Makeup

Never mind the name – Milk Makeup products don’t contain a drop of dairy! This vegan makeup brand was inspired by a creative hub in New York City and is all about empowering people to embrace self-expression. From nourishing skin creams to vibrant lip tints, Milk Makeup offers a beautiful selection of products to help you feel your best.

Perfect for those sleepy mornings, the Cooling Water Refreshing Under Eye Gel Stick from Milk Makeup is a beauty essential.

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Creating a clean, compassionate and conscious beauty regime has never been easier! At Vegomm, we’ve even put together a selection of guides to help you out. From the best vegan shaving cream to our go-to vegan hair dyes, you’ll find everything you need to veganise your personal care routine right here.

Whether you’ve been vegan for as long as you can remember or you’re simply curious about the lifestyle and ready to start adopting a plant-based diet, getting to grips with vegan and cruelty-free shopping is key. Remember – even the most passionate, long-term vegans sometimes get confused between the many vegan and non-vegan goods at the supermarket!

However, once you’ve figured out what vegan symbols to look out for, it’ll be much easier and quicker to shop for vegan and cruelty-free products. There are lots of great ones out there – it’s just about finding them!

Trustworthy Vegan Symbols in the UK

When you buy a product that has been accredited by a third-party vegan organisation, it’ll show a symbol demonstrating that it meets their criteria. This gives you the level of confidence you need that it doesn’t contain animal products.

So, which symbols should you look out for when shopping for vegan items?

The Vegan Trademark

The Vegan Trademark is probably the most widely recognised vegan-friendly symbol in the UK. It’s the official sign of products regulated by The Vegan Society and has been used since 1990. You’ll see the Vegan Trademark on almost 60,000 products, including consumables, toiletries, items of clothing and much more.

You can read more about the Vegan Society, the world’s oldest and most trusted vegan organisation, and learn all about its Vegan Trademark here.

Vegetarian Society Vegan Approved

The Vegetarian Society, which focuses on all things vegetarian and vegan, has been promoting the plant-based lifestyle since 1847!  Today, it does so with two plant-based symbols – the Vegetarian Society Approved Vegetarian and the Vegetarian Society Approved Vegan.

It’s important not to get the two confused, but luckily they’re fairly easy to tell apart. Simply look out for the word ‘vegan’ to distinguish between the two symbols with ease!  You can take a look at the two logos and read about their differences in more detail here.

PETA-Approved Vegan

PETA has a larger presence in North America than the UK, but that’s not to say that its PETA-Approved Vegan symbol isn’t common here. You’ll spot it on a range of products including clothing, shoes, accessories and pieces of furniture.

It’s worth noting that the PETA-Approved Vegan symbol is used less commonly on food products, but PETA does regularly update its website with food-related news. For instance, you can take a look at the winners of the PETA UK Vegan Food Awards 2021 here.

Certified Vegan

Certified Vegan is a North American accreditation, however, it’s worth knowing about if you regularly import treats from the United States or beyond. The Certified Vegan stamp has been given to thousands of products across North America and is used to highlight that a product is free from animal ingredients, animal-based GMOs or animal testing. You can read all about the Certified Vegan symbol here.

Cruelty-free vs Vegan-friendly Symbols

It’s important to note that “cruelty-free” and “vegan” don’t necessarily mean the same thing. For instance, the term “cruelty-free” is often used to show that a product hasn’t been tested on animals – but it doesn’t always mean that it’s free from animal-derived products. Knowing this distinction is important to ensure you don’t confuse cruelty-free accreditations, such as the Leaping Bunny or Cruelty Free International, with vegan accreditations.

VS

Please also note that some companies will create similar-looking logos to brand their products, even if they haven’t been approved by a third party. These may not always be easy to spot, so be wary of any symbols that you haven’t seen before when buying vegan or cruelty-free products.

Non-accredited Vegan Symbols

In addition to these accredited symbols for vegan goodies, many supermarkets have plant-based ranges with their own vegan stickers. For instance, many will use a green ‘VE’ or ‘VG’ to indicate that a product is vegan. A plain ‘V’ typically means that a product is vegetarian.

Unfortunately, some products are labelled incorrectly. Take these sweets from Urban Outfitters, for example. Despite being labelled vegan, the sweets actually contain beef and pork gelatine.

If you want to be sure whether a product is truly vegan, it’s always a good idea to look for an official third-party logo or check the ingredients list with a fine-tooth comb.

Accidentally Vegan Products

Remember – not all products in the UK are labelled with dietary information. As a result, you may stumble across what we call “accidentally vegan” items. These products don’t contain any animal ingredients but aren’t branded with accredited symbols for vegan consumers to spot easily.

Below, check out some of our favourite accidentally vegan treats!*

Jus-Rol Pain au Chocolat and Cinnamon Swirls

These simple-to-make baked goods are a must-have. With these in the fridge, you’ll always have a delicious breakfast option to hand.

Oreos

Many Oreo flavours are accidentally vegan, meaning you can tuck into these delicious biscuits without worrying. You can check out our blog on vegan Oreos here!

Party Rings

On the theme of biscuits, we can’t forget to mention Party Rings! These retro snacks are ideal for enjoying at parties or dunking in a cup of tea.

Skittles

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll be pleased to know that many flavours of Skittles are suitable for vegans. You can also find a whole list of vegan sweets here!

Pot Noodle

Fancy a quick snack? Many Pot Noodle flavours are accidentally vegan, including Bombay Bad Boy, Sticky Rib and Piri Piri Chicken.

You can also follow the Accidentally Vegan Instagram page for regular food updates. Here, you’ll find a whole community of vegans sharing their favourite goodies!

At Vegomm, we’ve made it our mission to connect you to the most accurate and up to date information about veganism, with everything from restaurant guides to product recommendations to explore. We love hearing from other members of the vegan community, so don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Halloumi is a famous Mediterranean cheese, but if you're vegan or allergic to dairy, you might wonder if this tasty cheese is also vegan-friendly. Read on for the answer!

Halloumi is a cheese made from a mix of goat or sheep milk. If you're looking for a vegan-friendly option, look out for halloumi that's been certified as being dairy-free by the Vegan Society or Vegetarian Society.

Is Halloumi Vegan?

Vegans cannot eat any animal products at all. That means that vegans cannot eat any cheese that comes from the milk of any animal.

The longer answer is that vegans cannot eat any cheese that contains animal products. This includes camembert, brie, feta, parmesan, and all the other cheeses made from cow's milk.

Can vegans eat Halloumi?

If you're allergic to dairy products, you can still eat halloumi if it's been specially prepared to be dairy-free.

Halloumi cheese is popular in the Mediterranean and is sometimes called Cyprus cheese because Cypriots have been making it for centuries.

The Facts About Halloumi

Halloumi is a type of cheese that's made from a mixture of goat or sheep's milk. It can be eaten either fried or grilled. It makes for an exciting choice if you're looking for something to serve with your vegetables.

Halloumi is well-known in the Mediterranean, where it's commonly eaten with falafel or other types of pita bread.

It's often used as a substitute for mozzarella cheese since it has the same creamy texture. You can also use it as a pizza topping or on a salad.

Can vegetarians eat Halloumi?

There is a fascinating debate going on whether or not vegetarians can eat Halloumi. Some vegetarians think that just because a product doesn't contain meat that it's safe to eat. However, that's not always the case with all foods, as vegetarians learn about Halloumi and other cheeses.

Halloumi uses rennet to curdle the milk.

Most people think of rennet as being an animal product. That's because it is made from the lining of a calf's stomach. It's the natural enzyme that's used to turn milk into cheese.

Vegetarians who eat cheese may not realize that their cheese contains rennet. Small amounts of rennet are used in most cheeses to help them solidify. Rennet is used to curdle the milk, and then it's formed into cheese.

Are there vegan alternatives to Halloumi?

There are many vegan alternatives to Halloumi that you can eat. There are cheese alternatives and specific alternatives to Halloumi. While the texture is not quite the same, they are suitable for vegans.

Cheese Alternatives

Tofu can be used to make cheese. Most tofu cheeses are lower in protein than regular cheese, but they are still relatively high in calories, so you may need to adjust your calorie intake if you're on a diet.

Not all tofu cheeses are vegetarian, however. Some of them creep up with whey and other animal-based products. The trick to getting a good tofu cheese is to read the ingredients so you don't accidentally consume anything from an animal.

Does vegan Halloumi contain rennent?

A vegan cheese should use no milk or animal products whatsoever. So, the answer to that question is no. However, you need to be very careful when you're buying vegetarian cheese. The labeling may not make it clear whether or not it's made with animal products other than dairy.

Many vegan cheese products are available, but it's essential to make sure that they aren't produced using milk or other animal products, like whey (a by-product of making cheese).

Can you make your own vegan Halloumi at home?

Yes, it's possible to make your own vegan Halloumi at home. All you need is some time and effort, and you'll be able to make your own halloumi-style cheese. It's not easy to do, but the results will be worth it.

It takes a while to make a good vegan cheese, but there are ways to speed up the process, so you don't have to wait so long for your cheese.

Vegan Cheese Recipes

You can use many different types of nuts and seeds in your vegan cheese recipes. You can also add fruits, vegetables, and herbs to it for a more exciting flavor.

If you don't want to do it yourself, you can always buy a vegan cheese product in the store. It's good to read the ingredient list before purchasing any cheese from the store. You should make sure that no animal products are used in the production.

There are vegan cheese products available in many stores, like your local supermarket, health food store, or online shopping. You can also find vegan cheeses in shops that specialize in vegan food.

You need to make sure that your vegan cheese isn't made using milk, whey, or other animal products. In addition, it should either be labeled as vegetarian or vegan. You can also use our guide above to make sure it's suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

It's best to make friends with the people who work at your local health food store

The chances are good that those who work at your local health food store will be, at the very least, vegetarians and quite possibly vegans. If your local health food store doesn't have things such as vegan Halloumi, they'll know where you can buy it.

Don't be afraid to ask someone who works at the health food store if they know where you can get vegan Halloumi cheese or other cruelty-free products that you're searching for. You can also ask them to check the ingredients on your products if you're not sure whether or not they're vegan.

Join Vegan Facebook Groups

Facebook groups for vegans are also a great place to learn about animal-free products

Many people use Facebook to connect with friends and family, but there are also groups for vegans. These groups are great places to hear about new vegan products that you can try or ask questions about your diet.

If you're not sure whether or not a food product is vegan, it's always a good idea to check with the people in the Facebook group. They'll be able to give you more specific information about whether or not something is vegan or vegetarian. They will also be able to provide you with vegan alternatives to your favorite foods so that you can eat those foods as well.

Your love of Halloumi doesn't have to take you down the path of being cruel to animals

You can choose vegan alternatives right now that are just as good as regular Halloumi or even better. You have to be willing to do your research and learn about vegan alternatives for Halloumi. Doing that can help you lead a cruelty-free lifestyle where you don't hurt animals.

Vegan Halloumi will never taste the same as regular Halloumi, but it's a great substitute to have in your fridge. If you want to be cruelty-free, you can either use vegan cheese or not eat any cheese at all. That's your call.

Conclusion

Halloumi is a cheese that has become popular over the centuries, and it's easy to see why that is. It tastes great, can be served in so many different ways, isn't very expensive, and it's relatively easy to make.

If you want to keep serving it at your next party or if you want to snack on it during the day, you can do so with vegan alternatives.

The answer to the question of whether vegan Halloumi exists is yes. There's a wide range of vegan cheese products, or you can make your own vegan cheese at home. Vegan Halloumi is an excellent alternative for those who want to keep eating Halloumi but don't want to hurt animals. So instead of buying regular Halloumi, be sure to check if there's a vegan option and buy it.

Always remember there are vegan alternatives to just about any animal product out there that you can think of. Sure, it's not always easy to find them, but you'll be thankful once you do. You may have an easier time finding vegan Halloumi if you live in a big city or a city with many natural foods stores or health food stores. It's also helpful to know which online shops have vegan Halloumi products available.

You might even consider starting a blog or social media account dedicated to sharing your vegan finds with the rest of the world. But, as you probably have already realized, it can be challenging to find vegan products, and everyone needs all the help they can get.

As in the case of Halloumi cheese, there are alternatives, even though they may not always be right under your nose. Do your due diligence, and eventually, you'll find what you're after. The hope of finding a cruelty-free Halloumi alternative doesn't have to be a dream; it can be a reality if you're willing to do a little sleuthing.