Ingredients to look out for
- Gelatine: made from animal collagen, often pork or beef — the main reason many gummies are not vegan or halal.
- Carmine / cochineal (E120): a red colour made from insects.
- Shellac (E904): a glaze made from insect resin, used for shine.
- Beeswax (E901): another glazing agent.
- Milk and egg ingredients in chewy and chocolate sweets.
What to look for instead
Many sweets now use pectin, starch or agar instead of gelatine, and colours from fruit and vegetables. Look for a recognised vegan logo or a halal certification mark from a recognised body, and check the ingredients — recipes do change.