Starbursts are a beloved candy, cherished for their chewy texture and vibrant fruity flavors.
However, if you follow a vegan lifestyle, you may wonder: Can starbursts be part of your plant-based diet?
The short answer is no—at least not in the United States. U.S. Starbursts contain ingredients like gelatin and confectioner’s glaze, which are not vegan-friendly.
However, the story is different for UK Starbursts, which are vegan and free from animal-derived additives.
In this guide, we’ll analyze the ingredients in popular Starburst products and help you determine which ones are suitable for vegans.
Starbursts in the United States: Not Vegan
If you’re in the U.S., you’ll need to cross Starbursts off your vegan snack list. Most Starburst products contain animal-derived ingredients, with gelatin being the most common offender.
Here’s a closer look at popular U.S. Starburst products:
Starburst Originals (U.S.)
- Ingredients: Corn Syrup, Sugar, Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil, Gelatin, Natural and Artificial Flavors, and Coloring (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1).
- Why it’s not vegan: Gelatin, a byproduct of animal collagen, makes these candies unsuitable for vegans. The artificial dyes and flavors, often tested on animals, add further concern for plant-based eaters.
Starburst Minis (U.S.)
- Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Palm Oil, Confectioner’s Glaze, Natural and Artificial Flavors, and Coloring (Red 40, Blue 1).
- Why it’s not vegan: While Minis don’t contain gelatin, they include confectioner’s glaze, an insect-derived coating made from lac bugs.
Starburst Gummies (U.S.)
- Ingredients: Corn Syrup, Gelatin, Artificial Flavors, and Coloring (Red 40, Blue 1).
- Why it’s not vegan: Gelatin is used to achieve the chewy texture, and the artificial additives raise additional concerns.
Starburst Jelly Beans (U.S.)
- Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Confectioner’s Glaze, and Coloring (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1).
- Why it’s not vegan: These jelly beans are coated with confectioner’s glaze, which is derived from insects.
Starbursts in the United Kingdom: Vegan-Friendly
Unlike their U.S. counterparts, UK Starbursts are vegan-friendly. They do not contain gelatin, confectioner’s glaze, or artificial additives that are tested on animals.
Starburst Originals (UK)
- Ingredients: Glucose Syrup, Sugar, Concentrated Fruit Juices, Citric Acid, and Natural Flavors.
- Why it’s vegan: These candies are free from animal-derived ingredients and artificial dyes, making them a safe choice for vegans.
Starburst Minis (UK)
- Ingredients: Similar to the UK Originals, with no gelatin or confectioner’s glaze.
- Why it’s vegan: Plant-based ingredients make these a great vegan-friendly treat.
Starburst Chewing Gum (UK)
- Ingredients: Sweeteners, Gum Base, Flavors, and Plant-Based Dyes.
- Why it’s vegan: This gum contains no animal or insect-derived ingredients, though some vegans may want to research specific additives.
Why Are UK Starbursts Vegan but U.S. Starbursts Are Not?
The difference lies in manufacturing practices and food regulations. UK Starbursts are made with plant-based ingredients, while U.S. versions rely on gelatin and confectioner’s glaze for texture and shine. These differences highlight how ingredient sourcing varies between countries, even within the same brand.
If you’re in the U.S. but want vegan Starbursts, consider sourcing UK varieties from import shops or online retailers.
Vegan Alternatives to Starbursts
If you can’t find UK Starbursts but still crave a chewy, fruity treat, several vegan-friendly candies can satisfy your cravings. Here are a few great options:
- SmartSweets Fruity Gummy Bears: Made with pectin and free from animal products.
- YumEarth Organic Fruit Chews: Vegan, organic, and made with natural flavors and colors.
- Project 7 Gummies: Vegan-friendly with a variety of fruity flavors.
- Lovely Organic Chewy Candies: A plant-based option with a similar texture to Starbursts.
These candies deliver the sweet, chewy experience you’re looking for without compromising on your values.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a vegan craving Starbursts, it’s essential to check the label—or better yet, opt for UK Starbursts, which are free from animal-derived ingredients. Unfortunately, no U.S. Starburst products are vegan-friendly due to the inclusion of gelatin and confectioner’s glaze.
For U.S.-based vegans, exploring alternative brands like YumEarth or SmartSweets is a great way to enjoy fruity, chewy candies without worrying about animal-derived ingredients.
Have you tried UK Starbursts or found a favorite vegan candy alternative? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page.
