Is Market reserve meyer lemon basil dressing Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the label. The base of this dressing is a blend of soy puree (made from soy milk), water, and oils. This creates a creamy, emulsified texture without the need for dairy, which is excellent news for those with lactose intolerance. The acidity comes from white wine vinegar and Meyer lemon juice concentrate, providing that signature bright, tangy flavor profile.

However, the ingredient that raises a flag for strict vegans is sugar. In the United States, a significant portion of refined white sugar is processed using bone char—granular charcoal made from animal bones—to whiten it. While the sugar itself contains no animal DNA, the processing method renders it non-vegan in the eyes of many. Additionally, the xanthan gum is a plant-based thickener, but it is produced by fermentation, which is perfectly acceptable for vegans. The basil and spice add the necessary herbal complexity, while garlic provides a savory depth.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this dressing relies heavily on fats for flavor delivery. You have a combination of soybean oil and extra virgin olive oil. While olive oil is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, the total fat content will be significant. This is a dressing, not a sauce, so portion control is key. Regarding calories, the addition of sugar contributes to the caloric density without offering significant micronutrients. If you are monitoring your sugar intake for weight loss or blood sugar management, this dressing requires careful measurement. It fits within a standard diet as a condiment, but it shouldn't be consumed freely if you are strictly counting macros.