Are Gummy Bears Vegan?

No — standard gummy bears are not vegan. Classic Haribo Gold-Bears and most other mainstream gummy bear brands use gelatin as the primary gelling agent. Gelatin is produced from animal collagen — primarily pig skin and cattle bones. However, vegan gummy bears do exist: brands using pectin (from fruit peel) or agar agar (from seaweed) produce a nearly identical texture without any animal products.

Haribo Gold-Bears Ingredients

Haribo Gold-Bears (US): Corn syrup, Sugar, Gelatin, Dextrose, Citric acid, Artificial and natural flavors, Artificial colors, Carnauba wax.

Gelatin is the third ingredient. Haribo Gold-Bears are not vegan or vegetarian.

Vegan Gummy Bear Brands

YumEarth Organic Gummy Bears

Uses pectin derived from fruit peel. Certified USDA organic, vegan, gluten-free, and free from artificial colors. Slightly softer than Haribo with more natural fruit flavor.

Surf Sweets Gummy Bears

Uses pectin-based formula. Vegan, organic, and free from common allergens.

SmartSweets Fruity Gummy Bears

Uses pectin. Also lower in sugar than standard gummies. Available at Target, Walmart, and health food stores.

How to Spot Vegan Gummy Bears on Labels

Look for: Pectin or agar agar as the gelling agent; no gelatin; certified vegan logo.

Avoid: Gelatin, beeswax, shellac / confectioner’s glaze.

FAQ

Are any Haribo products vegan? In the US, almost all Haribo products contain gelatin. In Europe, some Haribo varieties are gelatin-free — check the label on the specific package.

Are gummy vitamins vegan? Most standard gummy vitamins use gelatin. Garden of Life and MaryRuth’s make pectin-based gummy vitamins.

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For more vegan-friendly snacks, visit the snacks and pantry hub. More answers in the Is This Vegan? Q&A category.