Is Chunky healthy request new england clam chowder Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist looking at the ingredient list for Chunky Healthy Request New England Clam Chowder, the classification is straightforward. The soup is a traditional animal-product-heavy recipe. The primary non-vegan flag is the presence of clams and clam stock, which are animal-derived. However, for those strictly avoiding dairy, there are three specific ingredients that confirm this product is not vegan.

Cream (milk) and Butter (cream, salt) are listed explicitly. In New England clam chowder, these ingredients are responsible for the thick, rich consistency and savory flavor profile. They are direct dairy products derived from cow's milk. Additionally, the ingredient Buttermilk (dehydrated) is present. Buttermilk is a byproduct of churning butter; it adds a slight tanginess to balance the briny clams. Even though the product is labeled 'Healthy Request,' implying lower fat, these dairy components remain.

There are also Soy protein concentrate and Yeast extract used likely as flavor enhancers or texturizers. While these are plant-derived, their presence alongside the dairy and clams makes the overall product unsuitable for a vegan diet.

Nutritional Value

Despite being non-vegan, the 'Healthy Request' label does carry some weight regarding nutritional content. A standard serving of this chowder generally contains around 110 calories, which is relatively low for a creamy soup. The fat content is reduced compared to the regular version, but it still contains saturated fat from the butter and cream.

The sodium content is a critical factor to watch. Like many canned soups, it relies on salt for preservation and flavor, though the 'Healthy Request' line typically aims to lower this. The sugar content is minimal, usually less than 2g per serving, which is a positive attribute. If you are looking for a low-calorie meal that isn't vegan, this soup fits within moderate dietary limits, provided you watch your overall sodium intake for the day.