Is Hint of Lime Flavored Triangles Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed snack is vegan, we have to look beyond the main flavors and inspect the fine print. The Hint of Lime Flavored Triangles present a classic case of hidden animal products. While the base is made from corn and vegetable oils—which are generally vegan—the flavoring system relies on dairy.

The primary culprits are sour cream and whey. The sour cream is explicitly listed as 'cultured cream, skim milk,' confirming it is a direct dairy product. Whey is a byproduct of cheese manufacturing and is derived from milk. Both ingredients are strictly off-limits for those following a vegan diet.

Additionally, the natural flavors and yeast extract can sometimes be sources of confusion. While yeast extract is typically vegan (often used to create savory, umami notes), natural flavors can occasionally contain animal derivatives. However, in this specific product, the presence of explicit dairy ingredients like sour cream makes the non-vegan status clear regardless of the natural flavors' source.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, these triangles are a calorie-dense snack. A standard serving contains a significant amount of fat, primarily from the vegetable oils (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil). While these are plant-based fats, the product is highly processed.

The sugar and dextrose content contributes to the carbohydrate count. Dextrose is a form of sugar derived from corn, but it acts similarly to table sugar in the body. For those monitoring their sugar intake or looking for whole-food options, this snack does not offer significant nutritional benefits beyond the calories provided. It fits the profile of an 'occasional treat' rather than a health food.