Is Smooth Real Honey Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the ingredients of Smooth Real Honey, the verdict is clear: it fails the vegan test primarily due to one specific ingredient. The product is marketed as a soothing remedy, but the source of that sweetness is the issue.

The main culprit is honey. Honey is a secretion produced by bees for the purpose of feeding their colony. Because it is an animal by-product, strict vegans do not consume it. The presence of honey in the 'Inactive ingredients' list is the definitive reason this product is not vegan.

Additionally, the ingredient list includes glucose syrup and sucrose. While these are typically plant-derived (from corn or sugar cane), strict vegans often avoid them if they are processed with bone char (a filter made from animal bones). While not an animal ingredient itself, the processing method can be a concern for ethical vegans.

Finally, the label states Contains: SOY. Soy is plant-based and vegan, but it is a common allergen. It is not a barrier to veganism, but it is an important distinction for those with dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Value

Smooth Real Honey is primarily a medicinal lozenge rather than a food source, but it still contributes to your daily intake. According to the label, each drop contains 10 calories. This is a relatively low calorie count, making it a negligible addition to your diet from a weight perspective.

The caloric content comes almost entirely from carbohydrates, specifically sucrose (sugar) and glucose syrup. There is no fat or protein in these drops. While the sugar content is low per drop, the active ingredient is Menthol (2.5 mg), which provides the cooling sensation that relieves coughs and sore throats. It fits well within the limits of a low-calorie diet, but it does not offer significant nutritional benefits beyond symptom relief.