Is undefined Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing the ingredients of FRUITY PEBBLES CEREAL, the primary components are rice and sugar. On the surface, these are plant-based. However, the specific type of sugar used is the main reason for the 'Maybe' verdict. In the United States, a significant portion of refined sugar is processed using bone char—a granular material made from the bones of cattle—to filter and bleach the sugar crystals. Because bone char is an animal byproduct, sugar processed with it is not considered vegan.

Additionally, we must look at the additives. The product contains Red 40, Yellow 6, and Blue 1. These artificial colors are synthesized from petroleum sources and are generally considered vegan. However, some strict vegans avoid them due to animal testing concerns. The oils listed, specifically hydrogenated vegetable oil (coconut and palm kernel oils), are plant-derived, though the ethics of palm oil production regarding environmental impact and animal habitats is a separate concern for many ethical vegans.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, undefined is high in carbohydrates due to the rice and sugar content. A standard serving contains a significant amount of added sugar, which contributes to empty calories. While the product is fortified with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A palmitate and reduced iron, the high sugar density means it does not fit well into a weight-loss or low-glycemic diet. The presence of BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) is a synthetic antioxidant used to preserve flavor, which is generally recognized as safe by the FDA but is often avoided by those seeking a 'clean label' diet.