Are Mike and Ikes vegan?
The answer is no. While the ingredients in Mike and Ikes do not contain any animal products, they are not considered vegan because they are produced in a facility that also processes animal-based products.
Additionally, some of the flavors of Mike and Ikes contain gelatin which is derived from animal collagen. Therefore, while Mike and Ikes may be vegetarian-friendly, they are not suitable for vegans.
For those looking for vegan-friendly candy products, there are a number of alternatives available. Many brands offer vegan gummy candies that are made without gelatin or other animal products.
Additionally, many chocolate bars and other sweets can be found that are suitable for vegans. It is important to read the labels carefully to ensure that the product does not contain any animal by-products.
Non-Vegan Ingredients In Mikes And Ikes
1. Confectioner’s Glaze
Confectioner’s glaze is a common ingredient in Mike and Ikes, and it is not considered food vegan. This glaze is derived from the secretions of an insect called the lac bug, which is found in India and Thailand.
The secretion is then processed to create a shiny coating for candy and other confections. As this ingredient comes from an animal source, it does not meet the criteria for veganism.
2. Refined Sugar
Refined sugar is another common ingredient in Mike and Ikes. While refined sugar itself does not contain any animal products, it may be processed using bone char. Bone char is a type of charcoal made from the bones of animals, usually cows.
This process is used to filter out impurities and give the sugar a white color. As this process involves animal products, refined sugar that has been processed using bone char is not considered vegan.
3. Food Dyes
Food dyes are often used to give Mike and Ikes their bright colors. While some food dyes are vegan-friendly, many of them are derived from animal sources such as carmine, which is made from the cochineal insect.
Therefore, it is important to read the labels carefully to ensure that the food dye used in Mike and Ikes does not contain any animal products.
4. Natural & Artificial Flavors
Natural and artificial flavors are often used to give Mike and Ikes their unique taste. While some of these original flavors may be vegan-friendly, many of them contain animal products such as gelatin or other animal ingredients.
Additionally, some artificial flavors may be tested on animals before being approved for use in food items. Therefore, it is important to read the labels carefully to ensure that the natural and artificial flavors used in Mike and Ikes do not contain any animal products.
Nutrition Facts
The nutrition facts for Mike and Ikes vary depending on the flavor. Generally, a serving size of Mike and Ikes is one ounce (28g) and contains 130 calories, 0g of fat, 33g of carbohydrates, 30g of sugar, and 0g of protein.
Additionally, each serving contains 20mg of sodium and 2% of the daily value for vitamin C.
Mike and Ike Original
Mike and Ike Original is a classic candy that has been around since 1940. It is a chewy, original fruit-flavored candy made with real fruit juice from concentrate and natural flavors. Each piece of Mike and Ike Original contains 130 calories, 0g of fat, 33g of carbohydrates, 30g of sugar, and 0g of protein.
Additionally, each serving contains 20mg of sodium and 2% of the daily value for vitamin C. Unfortunately, Mike and Ike Original is not vegan-friendly due to the presence of refined sugar that may be processed using bone char and food dyes that may contain animal bone products.
Mike and Ike Mega Mix Chewy Candy
Mike and Ike Mega Mix Chewy Candy is a delicious mix of fruity flavors that includes cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and strawberry. Each piece of perfect candy contains 130 calories, 0g of fat, 33g of carbohydrates, 30g of sugar, and 0g of protein.
Additionally, each serving contains 20mg of sodium and 2% of the daily value for vitamin C. This treat offers both a chewy texture and a taste that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Unfortunately, Mike and Ike Mega Mix Chewy Candy is not vegan-friendly due to the presence of refined sugar levels that may be processed using bone char and food dyes that may contain animal products.
When it comes to types of artisanal candies, the possibilities are endless. From any form of candy like-colored candies to Ikes cotton candy to cheery candy shades, to chocolate-covered treats, there’s something for every taste bud. For those who prefer fruity flavors, try a selection of gummies in various shapes and sizes.
Mike and Ike Mega Mix Sours
Mike and Ike Mega Mix Sours is a delicious mix of sour flavors that includes cherry, lemon, lime, orange, and Ikes strawberry reunion. Each piece of candy contains 130 calories, 0g of fat, 33g of carbohydrates, 30g of sugar, and 0g of protein. Additionally, each serving contains 20mg of sodium and 2% of the daily value for vitamin C.
Mike and Ike Root Beer Float
Mike and Ike Root Beer Float is the perfect snack for those looking for a delicious treat. With its sweet, creamy root beer flavor blended with vanilla ice cream, this treat offers both a silky smooth texture and a taste that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Each serving contains 120 calories and 7 grams of fat, making it an indulgent but still relatively low-calorie snack choice. Not to mention it has no cholesterol or trans fats! It also provides 6 grams of protein, so it’s perfect for those trying to build muscle mass as well.
Whether you’re looking for something special on a hot summer day or just looking for an exciting new addition to your snacking repertoire, Mike and Ike Root Beer Float is sure to deliver the taste you’ll love!
Vegan Alternatives
YumEarth Organic Strawberry Licorice
YumEarth uses natural, plant-based, and organic ingredients that are vegan-friendly and free from artificial colors and flavors. The sweet taste of YumEarth Organic Strawberry Licorice comes from stevia leaves and other natural sweeteners like brown rice syrup, making it a healthy snack option with nothing artificial added.
Plus, each piece contains only 70 calories – talk about guilt-free indulgence! Vegans, take note: YumEarth Organic Strawberry Licorice is the perfect snack alternative for you.
Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks
These 100% fruit snacks are vegan-friendly and contain no added sugar content or artificial flavors. Made with organic apples, oranges, green apple flavors, and natural flavors, these gummy snacks bring smiles to all family members.
Additionally, the bunny cuteness of each piece is irresistible! This snack is not only a yummy treat but also contains Vitamin A & C and iron for malnutrition prevention in children. It’s made using eco-friendly practices to keep your snacking options as ethical as possible – it’s even USDA-certified organic!
Grab a bag next time you’re in the store and enjoy guilt-free snacking that’s tasty, healthy, and vegan-friendly!
What Makes Some Vegans Believe Mike And Ikes Are Vegan?
Doesn’t Contain Gelatin
Many vegans view Mike and Ike candies as vegan-friendly treats due to their ingredient list. The sweets don’t contain any gelatin, a product of animal origin which is typically used in desserts as an agent that thickens and binds different materials.
Instead, the gummies are composed of plant-based core ingredients such as corn syrup, sucrose, fructose corn syrup, and citric acid.
For those considering following a vegan lifestyle – or even those who are just interested in understanding what makes some strict vegans believe Mike and Ikes are vegan – looking into its ingredient list may provide further understanding as to why this popular candy is also considered suitable for those following a plant-based diet.
Doesn’t Contain Red 4
Some vegans believe that Mike and Ikes are vegan due to the fact that they do not contain Red 4 which is derived from animals. This red food dye is a common animal-derived ingredient used in many candies.
Since Mike and Ikes don’t use this coloring, vegans can feel confident that their candy fix doesn’t come at the expense of an animal’s life. Additionally, they are responsibly sourced and palm oil-free, and artificial colors also don’t appear on the list of ingredients.
This combination of factors makes some vegans feel comfortable enough to consider Mike and Ikes a vegan snack option. Veganism isn’t just about avoiding animal products; it’s also about making conscious decisions about our food choices and being mindful of where our food comes from, so those who choose Mike and Ikes as a vegan option can rest assured that their choice was a responsible one!
Hey'all I'm Amy, a born foodie and diagnosed with celiac disease 7 years ago. I refused to cave into tasteless, boring gulten free food and create my own!
On my blog you'll find info & cool facts along with recipes, all on gluten free foods!