You'd think finding vegan candy would be easy, but hidden animal ingredients can trip you up. In Australia, even popular brands might sneak in gelatin or dairy without warning. Whether you're vegan, lactose intolerant, or just curious, knowing which candies are safe is key. Let's cut through the confusion with clear, up-to-date info for 2026.
What makes candy non-vegan?
Common culprits like gelatin (from animal bones), dairy (milk chocolate), honey, carmine (crushed beetles), and shellac (from insects) hide in plain sight. For example, some gummy candies use gelatin, and red candies might have carmine. Even seemingly simple candies like marshmallows often contain gelatin. In Australia, food labeling laws require listing ingredients, but terms like "natural flavors" can be tricky. Always check labels carefully.
Top vegan candies in Australia
Twizzlers are a classic choice. The red licorice is vegan-no gelatin, dairy, or honey. Made from sugar, corn syrup, and plant-based flavors, they're widely available. Just watch for limited editions; some flavors might use non-vegan ingredients.
Skittles are safe in Australia. They removed gelatin in 2019, so original flavors contain no animal products. The fruity candies are perfect for snacking. Seasonal mixes (like Halloween packs) might vary, so double-check labels.
Cadbury Plant Bar launched in Australia in 2025. It's Cadbury's first vegan chocolate bar, made with pea protein and cocoa. Available in milk chocolate and dark chocolate variants, it's lactose-free and smooth. A game-changer for chocolate lovers.
Smarties are vegan in Australia. Unlike some countries where they contain milk, here they're made with plant-based ingredients. The crunchy sugar-coated candies are easy to find.
Sour Patch Kids are vegan. They use corn syrup and fruit juice concentrates instead of gelatin. No dairy or animal products-just sour and sweet fun.
Jolly Ranchers hard candies are usually vegan, but check flavors. Some gummy versions might contain gelatin. Stick to the classic hard candies for safety.
| Candy | Vegan? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Twizzlers | Yes | No animal products; check for natural flavors |
| Skittles | Yes | Original flavors; removed gelatin in 2019 |
| Cadbury Plant Bar | Yes | Lactose-free chocolate launched in 2025 |
| Smarties | Yes | Australian version is vegan |
| Sour Patch Kids | Yes | Plant-based ingredients |
| M&M's | No | Contains milk chocolate |
| Jolly Ranchers | Yes (some flavors) | Check for gelatin in hard candies |
Common misconceptions
Many assume M&M's are vegan, but they contain milk chocolate. Same with Milky Way bars-they're full of dairy. Even "dark chocolate" brands sometimes use milk powder. Starbursts in Australia contain gelatin, unlike some other countries. Red Vines licorice is vegan, but other licorice brands might use gelatin.
How to check labels
Look for "vegan" certification logos. If missing, scan for:
- gelatin (common in gummies)
- dairy (whey, casein)
- honey
- carmine (E120, used in red candies)
- shellac (E904, in some coatings)
"Natural flavors" can hide animal products. When unsure, contact manufacturers. Many companies list vegan options on their websites. In Australia, new labeling laws require clearer vegan indicators since 2025.
Where to buy in Melbourne
Melbourne has great options. The Vegan Store on Lygon Street has dedicated vegan candy sections. Coles and Woolworths carry vegan options in health aisles. Online retailers like Vegan Store Australia ship nationwide. Local vegan festivals, like Melbourne Vegan Fest, offer special treats too.
DIY vegan candy
Make your own! Try vegan chocolate truffles: mix 1 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 cup coconut oil, and 1/4 cup maple syrup. Chill, then roll into balls. For fruit leather, blend pureed strawberries with a splash of lemon juice, spread thin on a baking sheet, and bake at 150°C for 4 hours. You control ingredients and avoid hidden non-vegan stuff. Plus, it's fun and customizable.
Are all gummy candies non-vegan?
No! Some brands use pectin or agar-agar instead of gelatin. In Australia, Sour Patch Kids are vegan. Check labels for plant-based gelling agents. Brands like YumEarth and Surf Sweets offer vegan gummies.
Is dark chocolate always vegan?
Not necessarily. Many dark chocolates contain milk solids. Look for labels saying "dairy-free" or "vegan." In Australia, Cadbury Plant Bar is a safe option. Brands like Green & Black's 70% Dark Chocolate are also vegan.
Can I trust "natural flavors" on labels?
No. "Natural flavors" can come from animal sources. For example, some vanilla flavors use castoreum (from beavers). Always check with manufacturers if unsure. Vegan-certified products avoid this risk.
What's the easiest vegan candy to find in Australia?
Smarties and Twizzlers are widely available. They're in most supermarkets, corner stores, and online. Both are affordable and have no hidden animal ingredients.
Why did Skittles stop using gelatin?
Mars Wrigley removed gelatin from Skittles in 2019 due to growing demand for vegan options. They switched to plant-based ingredients like corn syrup and fruit juices. This change made Skittles vegan globally, including Australia.
