Is Original hummus Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To determine if this product fits a vegan lifestyle, we need to look beyond the marketing and examine the chemistry. The formula for this Original hummus is surprisingly clean and adheres to a traditional Mediterranean recipe.

The foundation of the dip is Cooked chickpeas (with water). Chickpeas are legumes and are entirely plant-based. They provide the bulk and the signature earthy flavor. Next is canola oil, a vegetable oil extracted from rapeseed, which acts as an emulsifier to keep the texture creamy rather than separating.

The most critical ingredient for flavor is tahini. This is simply ground sesame seeds. It adds a nutty, slightly bitter complexity that defines hummus. While some cheaper brands might use peanut butter as a filler, this recipe sticks to the authentic sesame paste.

Finally, we look at the preservatives and flavor enhancers. Sea salt and dehydrated garlic are standard plant-based seasonings. Citric acid is an organic acid derived from citrus fruits (or fermented corn sugar) used to balance the pH and add a slight tang. The preservatives sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate are synthetic salts used to inhibit mold and yeast growth; they are vegan-friendly and commonly used in food preservation to extend shelf life without refrigeration until opened.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this hummus offers a decent balance of macronutrients, though it is calorie-dense due to the oils. A standard serving contains roughly 80 to 100 calories, primarily coming from the canola oil and tahini. These are mostly unsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy compared to saturated fats found in dairy-based dips.

In terms of carbohydrates, the chickpeas provide dietary fiber and complex carbs, which help with satiety and digestion. You will find very little sugar here—usually less than 1 gram per serving—which makes it a better option for blood sugar management than many other processed snacks. The protein content is moderate, coming exclusively from the legumes and sesame seeds. It fits well into a balanced diet, providing a satisfying snack that isn't loaded with empty calories.