Is Tomato ketchup Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the ingredients list for vine ripened tomatoes, cane sugar, distilled vinegar, onion powder, and natural flavors, we have to look beyond the surface. The primary concern for vegans regarding this specific product lies in the cane sugar.

In the United States, a significant portion of cane sugar is processed using a filtration method that involves bone char—charcoal made from the bones of cattle. While no bone char remains in the final sugar product, its use in the filtration process renders the sugar a gray area for many vegans. The distilled vinegar and natural flavors are generally considered vegan in this context, as they are typically derived from plant sources or synthetic means, but without specific manufacturer disclosure, absolute certainty is difficult.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this ketchup is low in fat and calories, which fits well within the limits of a calorie-conscious diet. However, the cane sugar is the second or third ingredient, meaning it is a primary component. This results in a high sugar content relative to the serving size. While it adds flavor, those monitoring their sugar intake or following a strict whole-food plant-based diet should be mindful of the added sugars present in every squirt.