Vegan M&Ms: What They Are, Where to Find Them, and Better Alternatives

When you think of vegan M&Ms, a dairy-free version of the classic candy-coated chocolate pieces. Also known as cruelty-free chocolate candies, it’s a popular request among plant-based eaters who miss the crunch and color of the original. But here’s the truth: there are no official vegan M&Ms. The standard M&Ms contain milk chocolate, which means dairy. Even the dark chocolate versions include milk fat. That’s why so many vegans end up searching for alternatives.

What most people really want is a candy that mimics the texture, sweetness, and fun of M&Ms—without animal products. That’s where vegan chocolate chips, chocolate pieces made without dairy, often using coconut oil or cocoa butter as a base come in. Brands like Enjoy Life and Pascha make certified vegan chocolate chips that melt just right and hold their shape. Then there’s non-vegan candies, popular treats that secretly contain gelatin, whey, or shellac. These are the ones you need to avoid if you’re going fully plant-based. You’ll find some vegan-friendly candies with candy shells, like Smarties (in the U.S.) or certain dark chocolate-covered almonds, but they’re not exact replacements.

So why does this matter? Because vegan dessert lovers don’t want to sacrifice flavor or fun. You can still have rainbow-colored chocolate bites in your cookies, on top of cupcakes, or straight out of the bag. The key is reading labels. Look for vegan-certified or dairy-free on the package. Skip anything with milk solids, casein, or whey. Even some "dark chocolate" labels can sneak in dairy. And while you’re at it, check for cross-contamination warnings—some factories process dairy and vegan chocolate on the same lines.

The good news? The market for vegan sweets has exploded. You can now find chocolate discs, mini chips, and even candy-coated chocolates made with oat milk or almond milk bases. Some are even fortified with extra nutrients, making them a smarter treat than the original. If you’re baking, try tossing vegan chocolate chunks into muffins or trail mix—they work just like M&Ms without the guilt.

Below, you’ll find real guides on what’s truly vegan in the candy aisle, how to spot hidden dairy, and which swaps actually taste amazing. No fluff. Just clear, practical info to help you enjoy sweets the way you want to—without compromise.