Investigate and discuss the ingredients in Oreos to determine their vegan status
From convenience stores to party favor bags, Starburst has long been a chewy, fruity favorite. But if you're living a vegan lifestyle, you've probably wondered: "Are Starburst vegan?" At first glance, they seem harmless—just candy, right? But as always, the ingredient list reveals the real story.
Wondering if Starburst fits into your vegan or halal lifestyle? You’re not alone. From hidden ingredients like gelatin and shellac to new plant-based options like Starburst Goodies, there’s a lot more to these fruity chews than meets the eye.
Whether you're avoiding animal products, looking for halal-certified snacks, or just curious about what’s really inside the wrapper, here’s everything you should know before your next sweet craving kicks in.
Starburst is a fruit-flavored candy brand made by Mars, Inc. It comes in a variety of formats, including:
These candies are known for their bold flavors like strawberry, lemon, cherry, and orange. But what they contain varies greatly depending on where they're made.
No, classic Starburst sold in the U.S. is not vegan.
Why?
Yes, Starburst in the U.K. is widely considered vegan-friendly.
What makes them different?
Many in the vegan community import U.K. Starburst or buy them during travel because they align with plant-based values.
Whether Starburst is halal depends largely on where the product is made.
In the U.S., classic Starburst is not halal due to the presence of gelatin—an ingredient typically derived from pork or other non-zabiha animal sources. Some varieties may also include confectioner’s glaze (shellac), which is made from insect secretions and is also not halal-compliant.
In contrast, Starburst sold in the U.K. does not contain gelatin or shellac, making it more suitable for those who follow halal dietary practices, though not all packages are officially halal-certified. For consumers who follow halal principles based on ingredient transparency, U.K. Starburst is often considered a safer choice.
The newer Starburst Goodies, available in the U.S., are made without any animal-derived ingredients, using pectin instead of gelatin, and contain no shellac—making them a potentially halal-friendly option, especially for those who follow ingredient-based interpretations of halal. However, they are not officially halal-certified, so individuals with strict requirements may wish to confirm with the manufacturer.
As with all processed foods, especially candy, it’s best to read the label carefully or reach out to the brand directly if halal status is important to you .
Looking for fruity, chewy treats without the hidden animal ingredients? You’re not alone. Many vegans skip Starburst altogether and opt for brands that are proudly plant-based, transparent, and tasty.
Here are some of the best Starburst alternatives for ethical candy lovers:
Starburst might seem like a simple treat, but whether or not it fits into a vegan or halal lifestyle depends entirely on the version you’re buying. Classic U.S. Starburst contains animal-based gelatin and should be avoided by anyone committed to plant-based or halal choices. In contrast, the U.K. Starburst range is far more vegan-friendly, and the newer Starburst Goodies line in the U.S. offers a promising plant-based option—though it may cause digestive issues in large amounts.
As conscious consumers, it's essential to read labels carefully and support brands that align with your ethics. Luckily, today’s market offers more vegan-friendly gummy candies than ever before. So if Starburst isn’t the perfect fit, there are plenty of better options to satisfy your sweet tooth—cruelty-free.
