Is Jell-O Vegan? Gelatin Desserts and Vegan Jelly

No, regular Jell-O is not vegan. The gelling agent is gelatin, which comes from the skin, bones and connective tissue of pigs and cattle. The same is true for most jelly cubes, jelly cups and gelatin shots. Sugar-free Jell-O also uses gelatin.

What gelatin actually is

Gelatin is partially broken-down collagen. Manufacturers boil animal hides and bones, extract the collagen and dry it into powder or sheets. It is a by-product of the meat industry, so it is not vegetarian either. On ingredient lists it can show up as gelatin, gelatine, or E441.

Jelly products and gelatin

Words are confusing here: in the US “jelly” usually means a fruit spread, which is normally set with pectin and is vegan. In the UK “jelly” means the wobbly dessert, which is usually gelatin.

Vegan gelling agents that work

• Agar-agar: sets firmly, sets at room temperature and holds up in warm weather. Use roughly 1 tsp powder per 250 ml liquid and boil for a minute or two. See agar-agar.
• Carrageenan: from red seaweed, gives a softer, more Jell-O-like wobble.
• Konjac: chewy, common in Asian jelly cups.
• Vegan jelly mixes: several supermarket and specialist brands sell agar or carrageenan-based packets.

Fresh pineapple, kiwi and papaya contain enzymes that break down gelatin. They're less of a problem with agar, but cooked or tinned fruit gives the most predictable set.

Check these too

Gelatin hides in plenty of other places: marshmallows, gummy sweets, some yogurts, cheesecakes, trifle and mousse. Our gelatin alternatives guide covers replacements for each.