Is Cauliflower Veggie Fries Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look beyond the marketing claims to see what is actually in the box. When examining the ingredient list for Cauliflower Veggie Fries, the composition is surprisingly clean from a vegan standpoint. The base of the fry is made from CAULIFLOWER and BROCCOLI, which provides the vegetable bulk and nutrients.

To bind these vegetables together without using eggs, the manufacturer uses COOKED NAVY BEANS and OAT BRAN. Navy beans are an excellent source of starch and protein, acting as a natural glue that holds the fry shape during baking or air frying. Similarly, OAT FIBER and ARROWROOT POWDER are used to create a crispy exterior and maintain structure.

Regarding flavor, the profile comes entirely from plant sources: ONIONS, GARLIC, and a spice blend that includes CHILI POWDER. There are no traces of milk derivatives (like whey or casein) or eggs in the formulation. However, it is worth noting for those with sensitivities that oats are frequently processed in facilities that also handle wheat, so while the ingredients are gluten-free, cross-contamination is a possibility.

Nutritional Value

While these fries are vegan, it is important to evaluate them as a processed food product. The inclusion of POTATO FLAKES and CANOLA OIL contributes to the calorie and carbohydrate count. Unlike whole raw cauliflower, these fries contain added starches to mimic the mouthfeel of traditional french fries.

If you are monitoring your sodium intake, be aware that SALT is present, as are salty spices. For those strictly counting calories, these should be treated as a side dish rather than a free-for-all vegetable serving. They fit well into a balanced diet as a swap for traditional potato fries, offering a slightly higher fiber content due to the oat bran and bean ingredients.