Is Chunky Bowls White Bean Chicken Chili Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the ingredient list to determine the true nature of a product. When analyzing Chunky Bowls White Bean Chicken Chili, the verdict is immediate: it is an animal-derived product. The primary reason is the inclusion of Chicken Stock and White Meat Chicken. These are the foundational ingredients that provide the savory flavor profile and protein structure of the chili, making it strictly non-vegan.

Furthermore, the recipe includes Chicken Fat. This is often added to enhance mouthfeel and richness, mimicking the texture of traditional slow-cooked chili. While the product relies heavily on plant-based ingredients like Pea Beans, Green Peas, Carrots, and Celery, the presence of animal fat and meat overrides the plant-based nature of the vegetables.

There is also an ingredient called Carrageenan. This is a thickener derived from red seaweed, which is technically vegan. However, in this context, it is used to stabilize the texture of a meat-based product. It is worth noting that while carrageenan is plant-derived, some people with sensitive digestive systems prefer to avoid it, though that is a separate issue from the vegan status of the food.

Nutritional Value

Regarding nutritional content, this product is designed as a hearty, calorie-dense meal. A single serving generally contains a significant amount of sodium, which is typical for canned soups and chili to preserve shelf stability and boost flavor. The Chicken Stock and Soy Protein Concentrate contribute to the protein count, making it a filling option for those not following a plant-based diet.

Because it contains animal fats, the saturated fat content is higher than a strictly plant-based chili would be. If you are monitoring your intake of saturated fats or sodium, this might not be the best choice. However, it does provide a decent amount of fiber from the Pea Beans and Vegetables, which helps with satiety.