Does Goldfish Colors contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, Goldfish Colors contain both. The label explicitly states 'Contains: Wheat, Milk'.

Is Goldfish Colors good for weight loss?

They are calorie-dense and easy to overeat, so they are not ideal for strict weight loss plans.

Where can I buy Goldfish Colors?

They are widely available at major grocery stores, Walmart, Target, and online retailers like Amazon.

Is Goldfish Colors safe for kids?

Yes, they are marketed as a kid-friendly snack and do not contain caffeine or major allergens other than wheat and milk.

Is Goldfish Colors Vegan?

No, Goldfish Colors are not vegan. Despite the playful shapes and vibrant hues, these crackers contain real cheddar cheese, which is derived from animal milk. While they are free from artificial dyes, the presence of dairy makes them unsuitable for a strict vegan diet.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the ingredients of Goldfish Colors, the verdict is clear: they are not vegan. The primary culprit is the Cheddar Cheese. This ingredient is listed as containing cultured milk, salt, and enzymes. In the food industry, 'cultured milk' is the foundation of cheese production and is strictly an animal-derived product. Even though the enzymes used could theoretically be microbial, the milk itself disqualifies the product.

Another ingredient that often causes confusion is the Monocalcium Phosphate. While this is a leavening agent often used in baking, it is mineral-based and generally considered vegan. However, in the context of Goldfish, it is used alongside Baking Soda to create the cracker's texture. The Vegetable Oils (Canola, Sunflower, and/or Soybean) are plant-derived and safe for vegans. The colors used—Beet, Huito, and Watermelon Juice Concentrates—are excellent examples of natural coloring, replacing the artificial Red 40 and Blue 1 found in other snacks. However, the inclusion of milk remains the dealbreaker.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

milk

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Goldfish Colors are a calorie-dense snack. A standard serving contains roughly 140 calories, primarily coming from the Enriched Wheat Flour and Vegetable Oils. The fat content is moderate (5g total fat), but it includes saturated fat (1g) derived largely from the cheese.

The crackers also contain Sugar, which contributes to the overall flavor profile, though they are not overly sweet compared to desserts. They provide a small amount of protein (3g) from the wheat and milk sources. For those monitoring sodium intake, these crackers are relatively high in salt. While they are fortified with vitamins like Niacin and Iron, they should be viewed as an occasional processed snack rather than a health food.