Is Fine cut Oxford marmalade Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a product is vegan, we look beyond the obvious and investigate the source of every ingredient. For Fine cut Oxford marmalade, the ingredient list is relatively short, but there is one major flag for those adhering to a strict vegan lifestyle.

The primary ingredients are Glucose-Fructose Syrup, Seville Oranges, and Sugar. The fruit content is naturally vegan. However, the Sugar is the point of contention. In many countries, white sugar is processed using bone char (charred animal bones) to filter and bleach it. Unless the label specifies 'Organic,' 'Unrefined,' or 'Beet Sugar,' it is often difficult to guarantee the sugar is vegan-friendly.

Fortunately, the gelling agent is Pectin, which is a plant-based fiber derived from citrus fruits. This is excellent news, as some cheaper jams use gelatin (derived from animal skin and bones). Additionally, the acidity regulator Sodium Citrates and the Orange Oil are synthetic or plant-derived, posing no issue for vegans. The Citric Acid is also vegan, usually derived from the fermentation of molasses or corn.

Nutritional Value

Like most traditional marmalades, this product is high in sugar and calories. The primary ingredient is a syrup blend, meaning the sugar content is significant. For those monitoring their sugar intake, this should be treated as a condiment rather than a health food.

There is virtually zero fat in this recipe, which is typical for fruit preserves relying on pectin for texture. While it provides a burst of energy from the carbohydrates, it does not offer substantial micronutrients beyond what is naturally present in the orange peel. If you are on a low-carb or keto diet, this product does not fit those limits.