Is Southern style waffle fries Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is vegan, we have to look beyond the obvious potato and investigate the additives and processing agents. For Southern style waffle fries, the ingredient list is surprisingly clean from an animal-product standpoint.

The primary ingredient is Potatoes, which are naturally vegan. These are sliced into the signature waffle shape and par-fried or coated to ensure crispiness. The fat source used is Vegetable Oil. Manufacturers typically use a blend of canola, palm, soybean, or sunflower oils. While palm oil has ethical environmental concerns, it is botanically derived and considered vegan.

The most scrutinized ingredients in frozen fries are usually the flavorings and color enhancers. Here, we see Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate. This is a synthetic chemical used solely to prevent the potatoes from turning gray or brown after cooking; it is not an animal product. Finally, a small amount of Dextrose (a form of sugar) is added. While strict vegans sometimes debate sugar processing, the dextrose used in mass-produced foods like these is almost exclusively derived from corn or tapioca, making it vegan-friendly.

Nutritional Value

While these fries are vegan, it is important to consider their nutritional profile. Like most deep-fried frozen foods, Southern style waffle fries are calorie-dense due to the Vegetable Oil. A standard serving can contain anywhere from 130 to 160 calories, with the majority of those calories coming from fat.

The Dextrose adds a touch of sweetness and carbohydrates, contributing to the overall carb count. However, because the base ingredient is a whole vegetable, you are still getting some fiber and potassium. They fit well into a diet that allows for processed foods, but they should be consumed in moderation, especially if you are monitoring your sodium intake, as salt is the primary seasoning.