Starbursts may not be completely vegan, but they’re definitely not completely animal-free. In some countries, Starbursts may contain gelatin made from animal byproducts. In the UK, this will not be the case, but they may contain it if you buy them from the US. If you’re unsure, you should check the packaging.
Gelatin
Starbursts are filled with unhealthy ingredients, including gelatin, which comes from the bones and connective tissues of animals. These candies are not vegan, but they do contain other healthy ingredients, such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and spirulina extract.
Gelatin is a colorless, flavorless substance that is used in candies as a binding agent. It is made from animal byproducts, including pig and cow bones. The skin and hide of animals are also used to make gelatin. For this reason, vegetarians should avoid foods that contain gelatin. Some products, like Starburst Jelly Beans, are marked as vegetarian, which can help consumers make an informed decision about what to eat.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural substance used to make candles. It is a product of the beehive and is the most expensive type of wax. The wax can get a white powdery coating over time which is called bloom. The best way to restore the luster of a beeswax candle is to buff it.
Most Starburst products contain gelatin, which comes from animals, although the Minis and Original Easter jellybeans do not contain it. They also contain confectioner’s glaze, which is made from insect secretions and gives them a smooth finish. These ingredients are not vegan-friendly, and should be avoided.
Confectioner’s Glaze
Confectioners’ Glaze is a common ingredient in candies, which gives them their shiny coating. But the production of this ingredient is not vegan-friendly or sustainable. This ingredient is derived from the lac beetle, which is a species of insect that is killed for the production of shellac. In fact, approximately 300,000 beetles are killed each year for every 2.2 pounds of shellac that is used in confectionery.
Luckily, there are vegan-friendly Starbursts in the UK. Though you cannot find them in the United States, these candies are not only vegan-friendly but also suitable for people with allergies. You can also find vegan Starburst Minis and Jelly Beans in the UK.
Natural flavorings
The starburst candy bar is made up of many different flavors. The formula for each flavor can vary slightly from one country to the next. Most of the ingredients are the same, but there are some differences. Check with the company that makes the candy bar for the most up-to-date ingredient list. The main ingredients are sugar, glucose syrup, palm fat, and concentrated fruit juices. These ingredients are then combined with flavourings and antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid and beta-carotene.
Some flavorings may come from animals. For example, pigbone gelatin is often used. It is also possible to find kosher gelatin. However, the rabbinical regulations do not consider the marrow and bone of pigs to be the same as flesh. Other artificial flavors, which are not required to be labeled, may be harmful for health.
Sugar
The sugar in Starbursts is derived from plant sources. The packaging of the candy indicates that the candy is safe for vegetarians and vegans. However, it’s important to note that some Starbursts sold outside the United States or in the UK contain ingredients that are not vegan.
Gelatin is a common ingredient in Starbursts, but there are many plant-based alternatives available. For example, agar-agar is a plant-based alternative to gelatin. However, some starburst manufacturers in the United States still prefer to use gelatin, which is animal-based. Sugar is not healthy, but there are alternatives.
