Are you a fan of marshmallows but also concerned about the ingredients used to make them?
Well, you’re not alone. Many people are curious about the source of gelatin used in their favorite treats.
We’ll look at the answer to this question and learn more about veganism and its strengths in this article.
Marshmallows are a classic campfire treat that many people grew up enjoying. The pillowy soft, sweet confection evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort for many. However, in recent years some concerns have been raised over the ingredients in conventional marshmallows. Namely whether they contain pork products. This is an important question for vegans, vegetarians, and people who avoid pork for religious reasons. In this comprehensive article, we’ll uncover the truth about pork in Great Value brand marshmallows.
Why Do Marshmallows Sometimes Contain Pork?
A substance called gelatin is the main reason why regular marshmallows often have pork in them. Gelatin is added to give marshmallows their signature soft, squishy texture. It prevents the sugar syrup used to make marshmallows from hardening completely.
Most gelatin is derived from the bones, skin, and connective tissue of pigs and cows. Gelatin from pork is considered the highest quality and is the type most often used in food manufacturing. Therefore, products containing unspecified “gelatin” very likely contain pork.
Checking out the Ingredients in Great Value Marshmallows
Great Value is Walmart’s popular house brand. Their marshmallows come in 10 oz bags and are very affordable. But what about the ingredients?
On the Great Value website, the listed ingredients for their marshmallows are:
- Corn syrup
- Sugar
- Modified cornstarch
- Water
- Gelatin
- Natural and artificial flavor
Gelatin is clearly called out as an ingredient. And since the source is not specified, it is almost certainty derived from pork.
This is disappointing news for vegans vegetarians, and people avoiding pork for religious reasons. It means Great Value marshmallows are off limits.
Comparing to Other Brands of Marshmallows
How do other major mass market brands of marshmallows compare to Great Value in terms of pork-derived gelatin content?
Kraft Jet-Puffed marshmallows, which are also very common, contain the same unspecified “gelatin” ingredient. So pork is likely used in their products as well.
On the other hand, Campfire brand marshmallows clearly state they use beef gelatin. So those would be good for religious people who don’t eat pork, but not for vegans or vegetarians.
Are There Any Gelatin-Free Options?
While conventional mass market brands like Great Value almost all contain pork gelatin, there are some alternatives available:
Dandies – This is a popular vegan marshmallow brand that makes marshmallows with all plant-based ingredients. They use tapioca starch instead of gelatin to achieve a fluffy texture. Dandies can be found at many major grocery stores and online.
Trader Joe’s – Surprisingly, their store brand vegan marshmallows are gelatin-free. The ingredients appear very similar to Dandies.
Yummallo – This brand offers some gelatin-containing products but also has a line of vegan marshmallows. You have to read labels carefully.
Homemade – There are recipes for DIY vegan marshmallows made with agar agar or aquafaba (chickpea brine). But getting the texture right is tricky.
The Bottom Line: Yes, Great Value Marshmallows Contain Pork
After closely examining the ingredients lists and comparing brands, the verdict is clear. Great Value marshmallows do contain pork, in the form of unspecified gelatin.
This confirms they are not suitable for people avoiding pork for religious, ethical, or dietary reasons. Unfortunately, most conventional mass market brands of marshmallows are in the same boat.
The good news is some alternatives like Dandies do exist. Though pricier, they offer the nostalgic marshmallow experience without the pork. Hopefully more high quality gelatin-free options will become available mainstream in the future. But for now, vegans and pork-avoidant individuals must seek out specialty brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some brands like Campfire use beef gelatin instead of pork?
Religious considerations are the main reason a company would choose to use beef over pork gelatin. Certain faiths prohibit pork consumption. National brands want to make their products accessible to diverse religious groups, so may use beef gelatin for that reason.
Are there any health or allergy concerns related to pork gelatin?
For most people, pork gelatin is not a health or allergy concern. However, those with sensitivities to pork may react. There are also some concerns over food quality and potential exposure to harmful substances in conventionally raised pigs.
How do you know for sure if a brand uses pork gelatin or not?
Unfortunately, you can’t know 100% without directly contacting the manufacturer. Pork gelatin is the cheapest and most widely available type, so it’s a very safe assumption that “gelatin” contains pork. But some brands do specify “beef gelatin” which indicates a pork-free product.
What exactly is gelatin made from?
Gelatin can be derived from the bones, skin, and connective tissues of cows and pigs. The collagen-rich parts are boiled to extract the gelatin, which is then purified and dried. It is mostly protein with little flavor.
Are vegan marshmallows as tasty as regular ones?
The quality of vegan marshmallows has improved a lot recently. Brands like Dandies replicate the taste and texture of regular marshmallows very well. However, some lower quality vegan versions can be a little chewier and not quite as sweet. But technology is advancing in this area.
The Takeaway: Enjoy Your Favorite Treats Without Pork
Marshmallows bring back fond memories for many people. With childhood s’mores roasts and bowls of Lucky Charms cereal dancing through their heads. Yet the revelation that conventional marshmallows contain pork gelatin is disappointing for those seeking to avoid it.
Rest assured, with quality vegan options like Dandies available, you can still indulge your marshmallow cravings. Campfire nostalgia doesn’t have to mean compromising your dietary preferences or religious beliefs. A tasty plant
Do Great Value Marshmallows Have Pork?
The answer is yes, Great Value marshmallows do contain pork. The gelatin used to make these marshmallows is derived from pig skin and bones. In fact, Great Value marshmallows contain gelatin from a combination of animals, including chicken and beef.
Gelatin is a common ingredient in many food products, including marshmallows. It is used as a thickener and stabilizer, giving foods a smooth texture. But it’s important to remember that gelatin always comes from animals and shouldn’t be eaten by people who are vegan or vegetarian.
Understanding Different Types Of Gelatin And Their Sources
Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. The most common sources of gelatin are porcine hide (pig), bovine hide (cow), and fish. For hundreds of years, people have been making gelatin. Almost half of the gelatin made in the world comes from pig hide.
Pork and beef gelatin are very similar in what they are made of and how they work. They are both used to make clear gels and have melting points between 95 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They are sourced similarly, with the exception of kosher beef gelatin. Both pork and beef gelatin are available in different strengths or “blooms. ”.
Fish gelatin, on the other hand, melts at 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, which is much lower than pork or beef gelatin. It is easier to find as a kosher product, and it tastes like high-quality silver gelatin with a 250 bloom. Fish gelatin is commonly used in kosher gummy candies, marshmallows, and other confections.
Please keep in mind that kosher symbols and markings are not reliable for vegans or vegetarians because they only show if a rabbi was present during the food production process. Kosher gelatin is usually made from a fish source.