Are Jelly Bellys Vegan? Are They Gluten Free?

Jelly Belly is a popular candy brand known for its wide range of jelly bean flavors and other sweet treats. But if you follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, you might wonder: 

Are Jelly Belly jelly beans suitable for your dietary needs?

The answer isn’t straightforward. While Jelly Belly candies are generally gluten-free, their classic jelly beans aren’t vegan. 

Let’s break it down and explore alternatives for vegan candy lovers.

Are Jelly Belly Jelly Beans Vegan?

No, traditional Jelly Belly jelly beans are not vegan. This is due to two key ingredients derived from animals:

• Confectioner’s Glaze: A resin derived from lac insects, used to give the jelly beans their glossy finish.
• Beeswax: Sourced from honeycombs, beeswax adds shine and a subtle sweetness to the candy.

Thankfully, Jelly Belly has released a vegan line of jelly beans, offering flavors like lemon, apple, and orange.

These vegan-friendly options omit the animal-derived ingredients, making them suitable for plant-based diets.

Gelatin-Free Candy

It’s worth noting that Jelly Belly jelly beans do not contain gelatin, which is commonly used in gummy candies for a chewy texture. 

While this is great news for vegetarians, the inclusion of confectioner’s glaze and beeswax makes the classic Jelly Belly beans unsuitable for vegans.

Are Jelly Belly Jelly Beans Vegetarian?

Yes, Jelly Belly jelly beans are vegetarian. Ingredients like confectioner’s glaze and beeswax are not derived from animal flesh, making them acceptable for vegetarians.

However, if you’re a vegetarian, it’s still important to check for gelatin in other Jelly Belly products, as it may be included in non-jelly bean candies.

Are Jelly Belly Jelly Beans Gluten-Free?

Yes, the majority of Jelly Belly products are gluten-free, including their classic jelly beans. Instead of wheat-based ingredients, Jelly Belly typically uses cornstarch, which is naturally gluten-free.

Exceptions to Gluten-Free Products

While most Jelly Belly candies are safe for those with gluten sensitivities, there are exceptions.

For example, Licorice Bridge Mix and Chocolate Malt Balls contain gluten. Always double-check the packaging if you have celiac disease or follow a strict gluten-free diet.

Are Jelly Belly Candies Dairy-Free?

Yes, most Jelly Belly products are dairy-free, including their jelly beans. Dairy ingredients like milk, cheese, or butter are unnecessary for their production.

However, chocolate-based Jelly Belly treats often contain dairy, so it’s important to check labels if you’re lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy.

Vegan Jelly Bean Alternatives

If you’re disappointed that traditional Jelly Belly jelly beans aren’t vegan, don’t worry—there are plenty of alternative brands that cater to plant-based diets. Here are some top options:

Jolly Rancher Jelly Beans

• Vegan and made without gelatin or beeswax.
• Flavors include raspberry, watermelon, grape, strawberry, apple, and orange.
• Uses carnauba wax, a plant-based alternative to beeswax.
• Contains artificial flavorings, which some strict vegans may wish to avoid.

YumEarth Organic Jelly Beans

• Vegan, gluten-free, and made with organic, non-GMO ingredients.
• Flavors include apple, peach, mango, and strawberry.
• Subtle, fruity flavor ideal for those who prefer natural-tasting candies.

Surf Sweets Jelly Beans

• Free from the top 8 allergens and made with natural flavors like orange, grape, and cherry.
• Uses plant-based colors but includes confectioner’s glaze, making it unsuitable for vegans but fine for vegetarians.

Final Thoughts

Jelly Belly jelly beans are a delicious candy option, but they’re not suitable for vegans due to the use of confectioner’s glaze and beeswax. 

However, they are gluten-free and dairy-free, making them a safe choice for those with gluten or lactose sensitivities.

If you’re a vegan jelly bean lover, try alternative brands like Jolly Rancher Jelly Beans or YumEarth Organic Jelly Beans for guilt-free snacking. 

With a wide range of options available, there’s no need to miss out on sweet treats that align with your dietary preferences!

Frequently Asked Questions