Is Sweet Tarts Chewy Fusions Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I analyze ingredient lists to determine the origin of each component. For Sweet Tarts Chewy Fusions, the verdict is clear due to three specific ingredients that are red flags for the vegan community.

The primary non-vegan offender is gelatin. Gelatin is a protein obtained by boiling skin, tendons, ligaments, and/or bones with water. It is usually obtained from cows or pigs. In candy, it acts as a gelling agent, providing that distinct chewy texture that separates these from the original hard Sweet Tarts. There is no plant-based substitute used here; the gelatin is animal-derived.

Secondly, the ingredient list includes carmine color (also listed as cochineal). This is a red pigment derived from crushing the cochineal insect. It is a common natural alternative to Red 40 but is strictly non-vegan. It is responsible for the deep red hues in the candy's color profile.

Finally, while not an animal product, the milk warning is significant. The packaging states the product was manufactured in a facility that processes milk. While the ingredients themselves (like sugar or corn syrup) are plant-derived, strict vegans often avoid products with high cross-contamination risks of dairy. Additionally, the presence of confectioners glaze (shellac) is sometimes debated in vegan circles as it is insect-derived, though it is less controversial than gelatin or carmine.

Nutritional Value

Nutritionally, Sweet Tarts Chewy Fusions are standard candy: high in sugar and low in nutritional density. The primary ingredients are dextrose sugar and corn syrup, which provide empty calories and can spike blood glucose levels rapidly.

The serving size is typically small, but the sugar content is high relative to the weight. There is virtually no protein, fiber, or healthy fats. For those monitoring their sugar intake or looking for nutrient-dense snacks, this product does not fit those limits. It is designed as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.