Is marshmallows vegan?
Not vegan
Is marshmallows vegan?
Why
marshmallows is made by boiling the skin, bones and connective tissue of pigs and cattle — a slaughterhouse by-product.
What to use instead
aquafaba — It does exactly the same job in coffee, cooking and baking, with no change in method.
How to check a label
Ingredient lists are legally required to name allergens such as milk and egg in bold, which catches most hidden animal ingredients. E-numbers and processing aids are the gap: E120, E441, E542, E904 and E920 are animal-derived, and processing aids often go unlisted. When in doubt, look for a certified vegan mark or ask the manufacturer directly — most reply within a few days.
In depth
The longer answer
Marshmallows are a confection made primarily from sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, which is a protein derived from animal collagen. Gelatin gives marshmallows their characteristic spongy, airy texture by forming a stable foam when whipped. This ingredient is the key reason marshmallows are not considered vegan, as gelatin is almost always sourced from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of cows or pigs.
The vegan status of marshmallows is not straightforward because gelatin is so integral to their structure. While some brands have developed alternatives using agar-agar (a seaweed derivative), carrageenan, or modified cornstarch, these are less common and often labeled specifically as vegan. Most mainstream marshmallows, including popular brands like Jet-Puffed, contain gelatin, making them unsuitable for a vegan diet without careful label inspection.
To check if marshmallows are vegan, look for gelatin in the ingredients list, which is a clear red flag. Some products may use kosher gelatin, which is still animal-derived. Instead, seek out brands explicitly labeled vegan, such as Dandies or Sweet & Sara, which use plant-based gelling agents. For recipes, you can substitute marshmallows with vegan versions or use alternatives like coconut marshmallows or aquafaba-based meringues.
At a glance
Quick facts
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Key non-vegan ingredient | Gelatin (animal collagen) |
| Common vegan alternatives | Agar-agar, carrageenan, modified cornstarch |
| Popular vegan brands | Dandies, Sweet & Sara |
| Typical animal sources | Cows and pigs |
In practice
What this means for you
- Always scan the ingredients list for gelatin; if present, the marshmallows are not vegan.
- Look for certified vegan labels on the package to ensure no hidden animal-derived additives.
- For homemade marshmallows, use agar-agar powder or aquafaba as a plant-based substitute.
- When dining out, ask if marshmallows in desserts are vegan, as many restaurants use standard brands.
FAQ
Common questions
Are marshmallows vegan?
What is gelatin made from in marshmallows?
Can I find vegan marshmallows at regular grocery stores?
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