Is Brownies With English Walnuts Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the component list to determine the origin of the ingredients. For these brownies, the verdict is clear due to three specific flags found in the ingredient list.

The primary non-vegan culprits are Whey and Eggs. Whey is a byproduct of the cheese-making process and is derived directly from milk, classifying it as a dairy product. Similarly, the list explicitly includes Eggs and Egg Whites. These are used to provide structure and moisture to the brownie, but they are animal-derived.

Additionally, while the Enriched Bleached Flour is technically plant-derived, it contains Wheat. For those following a vegan diet who also have gluten sensitivities, this is an important distinction, though the flour itself is not an animal product. The presence of Palm Oil is also worth noting; while vegan, it is an ingredient often avoided by ethical vegans due to environmental concerns regarding deforestation.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, these brownies are a dense source of energy, primarily derived from simple carbohydrates and fats. The ingredient list features Sugar, Corn Syrup, and High Fructose Corn Syrup, which contribute to a high glycemic load. This means they provide a quick spike in blood sugar rather than sustained energy.

The fat content comes from Palm and Soybean Oils, as well as the natural fats found in the Walnuts. While walnuts provide beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids, the added oils contribute to the overall calorie count. For those tracking their intake, these brownies should be considered a treat rather than a staple, as they offer limited micronutrients beyond the vitamins added to the enriched flour.