Is Cinnamon Vegan? The Surprising Answer

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing whether a product is vegan, we look beyond the main flavoring agent. In this case, the product is marketed as cinnamon, but the ingredient list tells a different story. The primary issue lies in the additives used to create a creamy, sweetened powder.

The most significant flags are milk protein concentrate and whey protein isolate. Both of these are derived from cow's milk. Whey is a byproduct of the cheese-making process, and milk protein concentrate is exactly what it sounds like—concentrated protein from milk. Because these ingredients are dairy-derived, they are strictly non-vegan.

Additionally, the product contains palm kernel oil and palm oil. While technically plant-based, strict vegans often avoid palm oil due to the devastating environmental impact on rainforests and the displacement of wildlife, particularly orangutans. Finally, the presence of soy lecithin is noted; while soy is a plant, the product explicitly states it contains soy ingredients, which is a common allergen concern.

Nutritional Value

Despite not being vegan, it is important to understand the nutritional profile of this product. The inclusion of erythritol, allulose, and stevia extract indicates that this is a low-calorie or zero-calorie sweetened product. This makes it attractive for those monitoring their sugar intake or following a keto diet, as the soluble corn fiber and inulin provide bulk without spiking blood sugar significantly.

However, the addition of palm oil and palm kernel oil contributes saturated fats to the profile. While the amounts may be small, they are present. The inclusion of milk protein concentrate and whey protein isolate adds a small amount of animal protein, which is unusual for a spice blend but contributes to the creamy texture. If you are looking for a pure spice, this product is highly processed and contains fillers that alter its macronutrient balance.