Dots gumdrops, produced by Tootsie Roll Industries, have been a candy aisle staple since 1945. They’re chewy, fruity, and loved by many—but are they vegan-friendly?
The answer is: Yes, Dots are considered vegan-friendly, as they don’t contain animal-derived ingredients like gelatin, dairy, or eggs.
However, some vegans may avoid them due to concerns about controversial ingredients like sugar, artificial flavors, and food colorings.
Let’s take a closer look at what Dots are made of and what vegans should keep in mind.
What Are Dots Made Of?
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients in Dots gumdrops:
Original and Tropical Dots
- Corn Syrup
- Sugar
- Food Starch-Modified
- Malic Acid
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Sodium Citrate
- Artificial Colors (FD&C Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1)
Sour Dots
- Corn Syrup
- Sugar
- Modified Food Starch
- Citric Acid
- Palm Oil
- Malic Acid
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Sodium Citrate
- Artificial Colors (FD&C Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1)
None of these ingredients are directly derived from animals, making Dots a better option than many other gummy candies. However, some ingredients may still be controversial for stricter vegans.
Why Might Dots Not Be Vegan for Everyone?
While Dots are free of obvious animal-derived ingredients, some components make them a gray area for strict vegans.
1. Sugar
Refined cane sugar is often processed with bone char (charred animal bones) to achieve its bright white color. While the sugar in Dots is likely vegan, Tootsie Roll Industries doesn’t specify the source or processing method, leaving uncertainty for strict vegans.
2. Food Coloring
Dots use synthetic dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. Although these dyes are plant-free, they’re often tested on animals, which can conflict with vegan ethics.
3. Palm Oil (in Sour Dots)
Palm oil, found in Sour Dots, is a plant-based ingredient but raises ethical concerns due to deforestation, habitat destruction, and worker exploitation. Tootsie Roll Industries hasn’t specified if they use sustainably sourced palm oil.
4. Cross-Contamination Risks
Although Dots don’t contain dairy or other animal products, they may be processed on shared equipment, posing a risk of cross-contamination. For strict vegans or those with allergies, this may be a concern.
Final Thoughts
Dots gumdrops are a fun and tasty candy that most vegans can enjoy. They don’t contain gelatin, dairy, or other animal-derived ingredients, making them more vegan-friendly than many gummy treats.
However, stricter vegans may want to avoid Dots due to concerns about sugar processing, artificial dyes, palm oil, and cross-contamination risks.
Ultimately, whether Dots align with your vegan lifestyle is a personal choice. If you’re unsure, there are plenty of certified vegan candy options available to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dots Gluten-Free?
Yes, all Dots varieties are gluten-free, making them safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Are Dots Dairy-Free?
Yes, Dots don’t contain any dairy-based ingredients. However, cross-contamination is possible during production, so those with severe dairy allergies should proceed with caution.
Are Dots Kosher?
Yes, Dots are certified Kosher under OU Parve standards, meaning they’re free of meat and dairy products.
Do Dots Contain Gelatin?
No! Unlike many gummy candies, Dots are gelatin-free, making them a great option for vegans avoiding this animal-derived ingredient.
Are Dots Nut-Free?
Yes, Dots are free from peanuts and tree nuts, making them safe for those with nut allergies.
Are Sour Dots Vegan?
Yes, Sour Dots are considered vegan. However, they contain palm oil and artificial food dyes, which may be off-limits for stricter vegans.
