Are Skittles Vegan in Australia in 2023?
Curious about "Are Skittles Vegan in Australia for the year 2023”?
This blog post aims to provide insights into whether Skittles in Australia adhere to vegan principles and the reasons underlying their current classification.
Skittles, the iconic chewy candy, has delighted taste buds worldwide since its inception in the UK in 1974, gaining popularity in the USA in 1979. In Australia, Mars Wrigley has been responsible for local Skittles production, which sometimes results in variations in key ingredients compared to their international counterparts, mainly due to supply considerations and the use of locally-sourced ingredients.
However, the vegan status of Skittles in Australia has undergone a notable change in 2023. Regrettably, as per reports from the vegan food scanner app, Fussy Vegan, Skittles in Australia are no longer vegan-friendly. In September 2023, it was confirmed that Mars Wrigley had altered their ingredient sourcing, which now includes the use of shellac in the manufacturing process.
For those unfamiliar with shellac in the context of food production, it's a commercial resin derived from the secretions of the lac insect. In the industry, it's often referred to as 'confectioner's glaze' and is commonly employed by confectionery manufacturers in Australia. Shellac is typically used to provide lollies like jelly beans with their glossy coating and serves to prevent them from drying out by forming a moisture-impermeable layer.
Food manufacturing processes are known to evolve, leading to changes in practices and ingredient sourcing. Previously, Skittles were considered an accidentally vegan product. However, with this recent alteration in ingredient composition, the entire Skittles range is no longer considered vegan-friendly in Australia.
It's worth noting that the vegan status of Skittles in other countries, such as the UK and USA, remains unaffected, with the product retaining its vegan label.
For individuals seeking alternative vegan-friendly lollies in Australia, a comprehensive Accidentally Vegan Guide can be found here with suitable vegan options. This guide lists a variety of confectionery products that align with vegan dietary principles, offering a wide range of delicious alternatives for those looking to satisfy their sweet cravings while adhering to their ethical choices.
Please also be mindful, Skittles Giants are vegan, as this range of Skittles are not manufactured in Australia and don’t use shellac as a coating.