Does Haribo Use Pork Gelatin? A Complete Guide

Are you a fan of Haribo gummy candies? Do you follow a vegetarian, vegan, or Halal diet?

If so, you may be wondering if Haribo uses pork gelatin in their products. The answer is not a simple yes or no. While most Haribo sweets do contain pork gelatin, there are some that do not.

In this article, we will explore the different types of Haribo products and their ingredients to help you make an informed decision about which ones are suitable for your dietary needs.

So, let’s dive in and find out if your favorite Haribo candy is pork-free!

Does Haribo Use Pork Gelatin?

As mentioned earlier, most Haribo sweets contain pork gelatin, which means they are not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those following a Halal diet. However, there are some Haribo sweets that do not contain gelatin, making them vegetarian and Halal.

It’s important to note that Haribo sets high standards when it comes to the ingredients used in their products. Only the best raw materials are used to manufacture Haribo products. Fruit gum products are made from a mixture of glucose syrup, sugar, and a gelling agent such as gelatin or starch. Other ingredients such as fruit and vegetable concentrates, flavorings, starch, and a little citric acid are then added to this mixture.

Haribo has been producing fruit gum for over 90 years and has gained extensive manufacturing experience in this area. Each different gelling agent (gelatin, starch, agar-agar, etc.) results in a different consistency. Many Haribo fans particularly appreciate the consistency of those of their products that contain gelatin – they have often done so for several generations – and do not want this consistency to change.

However, Haribo is also aware of the fact that products containing gelatin do not meet every consumer’s needs. For this reason, Haribo offers alternative fruit gum products that are made with starch, agar-agar or Gellan gum and do not contain any ingredients of animal origin whatsoever.

Haribo products produced in Haribo’s factory in Turkey are made with beef gelatin and therefore do not contain pork. All other items are made with pork gelatin. Gelatin can be made from animal or plant material, and the label does not designate which one Haribo used.

Understanding Gelatin And Its Sources

Gelatin is a protein substance that is derived from collagen found in the bones, connective tissue, and skin of pigs, cattle, and other animals. It is also possible to obtain collagen from fish bones. The collagen is extracted by boiling the animal hides, skins, bones, and tissues after alkali or acid pretreatment. During this process, the protein is extracted and partially solidifies as it cools, producing the gelatinous layer on top of homemade stock. Commercially sold gelatin for culinary purposes is purified before it’s dried and packaged.

The raw materials used to produce gelatin are by-products of the meat industry. If there was no use for these materials, they would be thrown away. Gelatin production helps to prevent wastage and is therefore considered sustainable and a part of the circular economy. The raw materials used to produce gelatin are usually pig skins, bovine hides, beef and porcine bones because they have a high concentration of raw collagen.

It’s important to note that not all gelatin products contain pork. Gelatin can be made from animal or plant material, and the label does not always designate which one was used. Haribo products produced in Haribo’s factory in Turkey are made with beef gelatin and therefore do not contain pork. All other items are made with pork gelatin.

Haribo And Gelatin: The Controversy

Haribo has faced controversy over their use of gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen and is a common ingredient in gummy candies. As mentioned earlier, Haribo uses pork gelatin in most of their products, making them unsuitable for certain dietary restrictions such as vegetarianism, veganism, and Halal diets.

The controversy surrounding Haribo’s use of gelatin stems from allegations of cruel animal conditions at the farms where the gelatin is sourced. According to a documentary aired in Germany, the company outsourced gelatin production to a producer that used a farm where pigs had open wounds and pens covered in feces – or even dead pigs. This has led to criticism from animal rights activists and consumers who are concerned about the welfare of animals used in the production of their favorite candies.

In addition to animal welfare concerns, there have also been allegations of Haribo using slave labor in the production of carnauba wax, another ingredient used in their products. The company has promised to investigate these allegations and make improvements where necessary.

Despite these controversies, Haribo remains a popular brand worldwide and has a loyal following of fans who appreciate the unique consistency and flavor of their gummy candies. The company has also taken steps to offer alternative products that do not contain gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients for consumers who prefer them.

Which Haribo Products Contain Pork Gelatin?

If you are looking to avoid pork gelatin in your Haribo sweets, it’s important to know which products contain it. The classic Haribo sweets, such as Starmix, Tangfastics, and Cola Bottles, are strictly for meat eaters as they contain pork gelatin.

It’s also important to note that Haribo products made in Germany, the UK, Austria, Spain, Brazil, and France are made with pork gelatin. If you are looking for Haribo sweets made with beef gelatin, you should look for products that say “Made in Turkey” on the packaging.

While it’s safe to assume that Haribo products made in Turkey are Halal due to the predominately Muslim country’s slaughtering practices, it’s important to note that the packaging may not always have a Halal logo. Therefore, it’s best to check the packaging and look for the “Made in Turkey” label if you are looking for Halal Haribo sweets.

Haribo Products Without Pork Gelatin

For those who cannot consume pork gelatin, Haribo offers a few options that do not contain this ingredient. The following Haribo products are vegetarian and Halal:

1. Sour Bites: These are sour fruit-flavored gummies that come in a variety of shapes.

2. Sour Streamers: These are sour fruit-flavored gummies that are long and thin, resembling streamers.

3. Berries: These are fruit-flavored gummies in the shape of berries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.

4. Sour S’Ghetti: These are sour fruit-flavored gummies in the shape of spaghetti.

It’s important to note that while these products do not contain pork gelatin, they may still contain beeswax as a glazing agent, which means they are not suitable for vegans. However, Haribo now offers vegan soft jelly sweets made without gelatin or any other animal product, which can be found at Tesco in the UK.

Alternatives To Haribo For Vegetarians, Vegans, And Halal Dieters

If you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or follow a Halal diet, don’t worry – there are plenty of alternatives to Haribo sweets that you can enjoy guilt-free. Here are some options:

1. Candy Kittens: This UK-based company offers a variety of vegan-friendly gummy sweets in fun flavors like Eton Mess and Sour Watermelon.

2. YumEarth: YumEarth’s organic fruit snacks are a great alternative to Haribo’s gummy sweets. They’re made with organic cane sugar and organic sunflower oil, and come in flavors like Pomegranate Pucker and Mango Tango.

3. Trader Joe’s Scandinavian Swimmers: These vegan gummy bears are made with real fruit juice and organic glucose syrup instead of corn syrup. Plus, they’re gluten-free and kosher.

4. SmartSweets: If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, SmartSweets’ gummy treats are made with non-GMO corn fiber and organic cane sugar. They come in flavors like Sour Blast Buddies and Peach Rings.

5. Jelly Belly: Jelly Belly jelly beans are vegetarian-friendly and come in a wide variety of flavors, from classic fruit flavors to more unique options like Buttered Popcorn and Toasted Marshmallow.

6. Skittles: Skittles are vegan-friendly and come in a rainbow of fruity flavors. Just be sure to check the label, as some varieties may contain carmine (a red pigment made from crushed insects).

No matter what your dietary restrictions may be, there’s a sweet treat out there for you that doesn’t contain pork gelatin. So go ahead and indulge – without compromising your values!

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices About Haribo And Your Diet

When it comes to Haribo sweets, it’s important to be aware of the ingredients used and how they may affect your diet. If you are a vegetarian, vegan, or following a Halal diet, it’s essential to check the label before consuming any Haribo product.

While most Haribo sweets contain pork gelatin, there are some that do not. Haribo offers alternative fruit gum products that are made with starch, agar-agar or Gellan gum and do not contain any ingredients of animal origin whatsoever. Additionally, Haribo products produced in Turkey are made with beef gelatin and are therefore Halal certified.

It’s also worth noting that gelatin can be made from animal or plant material, and the label does not always specify which one Haribo used. Therefore, if you have specific dietary requirements or preferences, it’s best to research the product or contact Haribo customer service for more information.