Is Gelatin vegan?
Not vegan
Gelatin is made by boiling animal bones, skin and connective tissue. Not vegan.
Also known as: gelatine, hydrolyzed collagen
What it is
A protein extracted from the collagen of pigs, cows or fish.
Why not vegan
It is rendered from slaughterhouse byproducts. There is no plant-based gelatin — when you see 'gelatin' on a label it is always animal-derived.
Where you'll find it
- Gummy candies
- Marshmallows
- Jell-O and jelly desserts
- Pill capsules
- Yogurt thickener
- Fruit snacks
- Some wines (as a fining agent)
Vegan alternatives
- Agar-agar (from seaweed)
- Carrageenan
- Pectin
- Cornstarch
- Vegan jel brands like Natural Desserts Vegan Jel
FAQ
- Are 'kosher' or 'halal' gelatin vegan?
- No. They are still animal-derived — just sourced from animals slaughtered to religious standards.