The term “vegan” often conjures images of vegetables, tofu, and other plant-based foods. While those staples are certainly part of a vegan diet, many people are surprised to learn that a wide variety of common foods they already enjoy are also vegan. These hidden gems make transitioning to or maintaining a vegan diet easier and more delicious than ever.
Here’s a look at some of the top foods you might not have realized are vegan.
1. Oreos
Yes, that’s right. The classic Oreo cookie is actually vegan. Despite the creamy center, Oreos contain no dairy or other animal products. They are made with sugar, flour, oil, and cocoa, among other ingredients, making them a delightful vegan-friendly treat. Just be sure to check the package, as some specialty or limited-edition flavors might have non-vegan ingredients.
2. Ritz Crackers
These buttery-tasting crackers are a popular snack that happens to be vegan. The “buttery” flavor comes from oils and artificial flavors, not actual butter. Ritz Crackers can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite vegan cheese or dip.
3. Skittles
These colorful candies are another surprise. Skittles are made with sugar, corn syrup, and a blend of natural and artificial flavors and colors, but no gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients. This makes them a fun and fruity vegan-friendly candy option.
4. Sour Patch Kids
Another vegan-friendly candy is Sour Patch Kids. These sweet and sour gummies do not contain gelatin, which is commonly used in other gummy candies. Instead, they use corn syrup and modified corn starch to achieve their chewy texture.
5. Pasta
Most dried pasta is made with just two ingredients: semolina wheat and water. This means that many varieties of spaghetti, penne, and other pasta shapes are naturally vegan. However, it’s always good to check the label, as some fresh pastas may contain eggs.
6. Bread
While some bread recipes include eggs or dairy, many common types of bread are naturally vegan. This includes most baguettes, bagels, pita, sourdough, and ciabatta. Always read the ingredient list, but you’ll often find that your favorite bread is already vegan-friendly.
7. Peanut Butter
A staple in many households, peanut butter is made from peanuts, oil, and sometimes salt. It’s an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, and most varieties are naturally vegan. Just be sure to avoid brands with added honey or other non-vegan ingredients.
8. Popcorn
Plain popcorn is a whole grain that’s naturally vegan. When air-popped or popped with oil, it makes a great snack. You can flavor it with nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy taste without dairy, or any number of spices and seasonings for variety.
9. Dark Chocolate
While milk chocolate contains dairy, many dark chocolate varieties are vegan. Look for high cocoa content (usually 70% or higher) and check the ingredients to ensure there’s no milk fat or other dairy derivatives. Vegan dark chocolate is rich and satisfying, perfect for a sweet treat.
10. Maple Syrup
Pure maple syrup, made from the sap of maple trees, is naturally vegan. It’s a delicious sweetener for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, and even savory dishes. Just be sure to avoid “pancake syrup” varieties, which may contain non-vegan ingredients like butter flavoring.
11. Agave Nectar
Agave nectar is a sweetener derived from the agave plant. It’s often used as a honey substitute because it has a similar taste and consistency but is entirely plant-based. Agave nectar can be used in baking, cooking, or as a sweetener for beverages.
12. Coconut Milk
A creamy alternative to dairy milk, coconut milk is made from the flesh of coconuts. It’s commonly used in curries, soups, and desserts, and is also delicious in coffee or smoothies. Be sure to choose unsweetened varieties for a healthier option.
13. Potato Chips
Many plain and flavored potato chips are vegan. Classic potato chips typically contain just potatoes, oil, and salt. Even some flavored varieties, like BBQ or salt and vinegar, are vegan. As always, check the ingredients to be sure.
14. Graham Crackers
Surprisingly, many brands of graham crackers are vegan. They’re often made with flour, sugar, oil, and molasses. They’re great for snacking or making vegan s’mores with dairy-free chocolate and vegan marshmallows.
15. Fruit Snacks
Many fruit snacks, especially those labeled as organic or natural, are made without gelatin. Instead, they use pectin, a plant-based gelling agent. This makes them a vegan-friendly option for a fruity treat.
16. Hummus
A popular dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, hummus is naturally vegan. It’s versatile and can be used as a dip for veggies, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for salads and bowls.
17. Salsa
Most salsas, made from tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, are vegan. They’re a flavorful addition to many dishes and snacks, from tacos to chips to scrambled tofu.
18. Guacamole
Made from avocados, lime juice, onions, tomatoes, and spices, guacamole is another naturally vegan dip. It’s rich in healthy fats and can be enjoyed with chips, on toast, or as a topping for various dishes.
19. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce, made from fermented soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, is a common condiment in many cuisines. It’s vegan and adds a savory, umami flavor to dishes like stir-fries, sushi, and marinades.
20. Sriracha
This popular hot sauce is made from chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. It’s vegan and adds a spicy kick to a variety of dishes, from noodles to sandwiches.
21. Pickles
Pickles are cucumbers that have been preserved in vinegar, salt, and spices. They’re naturally vegan and add a tangy crunch to sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
22. Most Cereals
Many breakfast cereals are vegan, especially those made from grains, nuts, and fruits. Popular vegan-friendly cereals include Cheerios, Corn Flakes, and many granolas. Be sure to check the label for any added dairy or honey.
23. Frozen Hash Browns
Many brands of frozen hash browns are made with just potatoes and oil, making them a convenient and vegan-friendly breakfast option. They’re great on their own or as part of a larger meal.
24. Sorbet
Sorbet, made from fruit puree, sugar, and water, is a refreshing vegan dessert. It’s dairy-free and comes in a variety of flavors, making it a great alternative to ice cream.
25. Vegan Ice Cream
Many mainstream brands now offer vegan ice cream options made from almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk. These dairy-free ice creams come in a wide range of flavors and are just as creamy and delicious as their dairy counterparts.
26. Pesto
Traditional pesto contains Parmesan cheese, but many store-bought varieties are now made without it, making them vegan. Look for brands that use nutritional yeast or simply omit the cheese for a vegan option.
27. Canned Soups
Some canned soups are surprisingly vegan. Look for vegetable-based soups that don’t contain cream or meat. Brands like Amy’s and Progresso offer a variety of vegan-friendly soups.
28. Instant Noodles
Certain brands of instant noodles are vegan. Check the ingredient list to avoid those with meat or animal-based broths. Some popular vegan options include Top Ramen’s soy sauce flavor and certain varieties of Maruchan Ramen.
29. Pretzels
Most pretzels are made with flour, water, yeast, and salt, making them naturally vegan. They’re a crunchy and satisfying snack that can be enjoyed on their own or with vegan dips.
30. Pasta Sauces
Many tomato-based pasta sauces are vegan, made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. Avoid creamy sauces like Alfredo, which typically contain dairy, unless they are specifically labeled vegan.
Switching to a vegan diet doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite foods. In fact, many common and delicious items are already vegan, making the transition easier and more enjoyable. From sweet treats like Oreos and Skittles to savory snacks like Ritz Crackers and pretzels, there’s a wide variety of foods that fit into a vegan lifestyle. By discovering these hidden vegan gems, you can enjoy a diverse and satisfying diet without compromising your values. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just starting out, these foods prove that vegan eating can be both delicious and convenient.
Lance has been passionate about the plant-based diet and we have been following a whole food plant-based diet for over 5 years. We focus on health, natural healing, weight management, animal rights, and the health of the planet and environment by focusing on whole plant-based foods and sustainable practices.
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