Is Mild jalapeno pepper jelly ounces Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the formulation. The base of this jelly consists of high fructose corn syrup and corn syrup. These are highly processed sweeteners derived strictly from corn starch, making them 100% plant-based.

The flavor profile comes from green bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, and apple juice. These are whole-food ingredients and pose no vegan concerns. The acidity is maintained by distilled vinegar, which is fermented from grain alcohol and is universally vegan.

Texture is crucial in a jelly. Manufacturers use pectin here. Pectin is a polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants (specifically citrus fruits in this context) and is the standard vegan alternative to gelatin. Additionally, citric acid is used to retard spoilage; it is typically derived from the fermentation of molasses or corn sugar and is vegan.

The most complex ingredient is the Tabasco brand green pepper sauce. We analyzed its components: distilled vinegar, jalapeno pepper, water, salt, corn starch, and xanthan gum. Crucially, there is no anchovy or other animal product in the green sauce (unlike the original red Tabasco). The corn starch and xanthan gum are plant-derived thickeners. Ascorbic acid is simply Vitamin C. Every component checks out as vegan.

Nutritional Value

While this jelly is vegan, it is important to view it through a nutritional lens. The primary ingredients are corn syrups, meaning the sugar content is high. A standard serving likely contains a significant portion of your daily recommended sugar intake. It is a condiment, not a health food, so moderation is key.

Fat content is negligible, which is typical for fruit jellies and preserves. The calorie count will be driven almost entirely by the sugar content. If you are monitoring your glycemic index or following a low-sugar diet, this product should be used sparingly. However, for those simply avoiding animal products, it fits perfectly within the limits of a vegan diet.