Skittles are no longer vegan in Australia in 2023

In a recent turn of events, Skittles, those beloved, rainbow-coloured candies that once united vegans and vegetarians in sugary bliss, have taken an unexpected turn for the worse. Brace yourselves for the bitter truth:

Skittles in Australia are no longer vegan in Australia. 

A recent email response from Mars Consumer Care revealed that Skittles products made in Australia are no longer suitable for individuals following a vegetarian or vegan diet. This shift in ingredient composition, specifically the inclusion of animal-derived Shellac, has raised concerns among plant-based consumers who once enjoyed this popular treat cruelty-free.

Skittles in Australia

Eager to uncover the truth, we, as concerned consumers, directly contacted Mars Consumer Care to seek clarification regarding Skittles’ vegan status. The response email dashed our hopes, confirming that Skittles products manufactured in Australia now incorporate Shellac, sourced from insects. This revelation effectively renders these colourful candies unsuitable for individuals adhering to vegetarian or vegan dietary practices.

This unexpected change has left many plant-based consumers annoyed to say the least. Skittles, known for their vibrant colours and fruity flavours, were once a go-to snack for vegans and vegetarians alike. The inclusion of Shellac, an animal-derived substance, not only excludes these consumers from enjoying the sweet lollies but also raises concerns about transparency and ethical considerations in the food industry.

What is Shellac?

Shellac is a resin secreted by the female lac bug and is commonly used in various industries, including food and pharmaceuticals. Within the new Skittles mix, shellac is used as a glazing agent to provide their glossy finish. While Shellac itself is a natural substance, its origin from insects raises ethical questions for anyone following a plant-based / vegan lifestyle.

The news of Skittles no longer being vegan in Australia due to the inclusion of animal-derived Shellac has undoubtedly disappointed the vegan communities of Australia. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals trying to adhere to vegan lifestyles in a market saturated with diverse food products.  

While Skittles may have let us down, there’s still a trove of vegan-friendly treasures waiting for you on Australian shelves. In fact, we’ve compiled a handy list of delectable vegan lollies you can find at Coles and Woolworths, ensuring your sweet tooth remains as satisfied as ever.

Final Thoughts

While Skittles are off the menu, there are so many amazing vegan lollies here in Australia and we hope you will explore them all!

To see more supermarket-style products, visit our supermarket section here.

LGV!