Funyuns are a classic snack, loved for their crispy texture and bold onion flavor. But for those following a vegan lifestyle, the big question remains: are Funyuns vegan-friendly?
In this article, we’ll break down the ingredients, uncover why Funyuns aren’t suitable for vegans, and share some excellent plant-based alternatives that offer all the crunch and flavor you’re craving.
Let’s get our snack on!
Why Vegan Snacks Are in the Spotlight
The world of vegan snacks has exploded in recent years. With more people adopting plant-based diets for health, ethical, and environmental reasons, the demand for vegan-friendly options has grown.
From chips to cookies, nearly every snack category now offers vegan options. But how does that stack up for Funyuns, a popular onion-flavored treat? Let’s find out.
Are Funyuns Vegan?
Sadly, Funyuns are not vegan. Both the Original and Flamin’ Hot varieties contain ingredients derived from animal products, such as buttermilk, cheese, and whey. While they might be a tasty treat for some, they don’t fit the criteria for a vegan lifestyle.
What’s in Original Funyuns?
Here’s the ingredient list for Original Funyuns, highlighting the non-vegan components:
- Enriched Corn Meal (Corn Meal, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamin Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Riboflavin)
- Buttermilk Powder
- Vegetable Oil (Sunflower, Canola, and/or Corn)
- Salt and Sugar
- Monosodium Glutamate
- Natural Flavors (including Natural Onion Flavor)
- Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, and Gum Arabic
The presence of buttermilk powder is the primary reason Original Funyuns aren’t vegan.
What About Flamin’ Hot Funyuns?
The Flamin’ Hot version is even less vegan-friendly, containing multiple dairy-derived ingredients like cheddar cheese and whey. The key ingredients include:
- Enriched Corn Meal (Corn Meal, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid)
- Buttermilk and Nonfat Milk
- Cheddar Cheese (Cheese Cultures, Salt, Milk, Enzymes)
- Whey and Lactose
- Artificial Colors (Yellow 6 Lake, Red 40 Lake)
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder
Both versions fail to meet vegan standards due to their reliance on dairy-based ingredients.
Why Aren’t Funyuns Made Vegan?
The inclusion of animal-derived ingredients like buttermilk and cheese likely comes down to flavor and texture. These components enhance the tangy taste and crispy consistency Funyuns are known for.
However, with the rising popularity of plant-based snacks, companies like Frito-Lay may consider creating vegan versions in the future. Until then, there are some fantastic alternatives for vegans to enjoy.
The Best Vegan Alternatives to Funyuns
Missing Funyuns doesn’t mean you have to go without crispy, onion-flavored snacks. Here are two top-notch plant-based substitutes that deliver all the flavor and crunch—without any animal ingredients.
1. Munchos Flamin’ Hot Potato Crisps
If you’re craving the heat of Flamin’ Hot Funyuns, Munchos Flamin’ Hot Potato Crisps are a perfect alternative. These chips are entirely vegan and pack the same bold, spicy punch.
Key Ingredients:
- Tapioca Starch
- Modified Corn Starch
- Vegetable Oil (Corn, Soybean, Cottonseed, and/or Sunflower)
- Potato Flour
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder
- Paprika and Spice Extractive Flavorings
With no animal-derived ingredients, these crisps are an excellent option for vegans seeking a fiery snack.
2. Wise Onion Rings
For a classic onion-flavored snack, Wise Onion Rings hit the spot. They offer the same crispy texture and savory taste as Original Funyuns, making them a great vegan-friendly choice.
Key Ingredients:
- Tapioca Starch
- Potato Flour
- Vegetable Oil (Corn, Soybean, Cottonseed, and/or Sunflower)
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder
- Torula Yeast and Hydrolyzed Yeast Proteins
These onion rings are completely plant-based and deliver all the flavor you’re looking for in a snack.
Benefits of Choosing Vegan Snacks
Switching to vegan snacks isn’t just about avoiding animal products. It’s also a way to enjoy healthier, cruelty-free treats that align with your values.
Many vegan snacks are lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, making them a smart choice for your health.
Plant-based options like Munchos Flamin’ Hot Potato Crisps and Wise Onion Rings prove that you don’t have to sacrifice taste or crunch to stick to a vegan diet.
Final Thoughts
While Funyuns might not fit into a vegan lifestyle, the world of plant-based snacks offers plenty of exciting options. Whether you’re indulging in the spicy kick of Munchos or savoring the oniony crunch of Wise Onion Rings, there’s a vegan snack out there for every craving.
Have you tried any of these alternatives? Or do you have a favorite vegan snack we should know about? Find us on Facebook to share your thoughts.
