Ready roll icing, also known as fondant icing or sugarpaste, is a popular choice for cake decorating, offering a smooth, professional finish with relative ease. But for those following a vegan lifestyle, the question of its suitability often arises: is ready roll icing vegan? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t always straightforward and requires a closer examination of the ingredients commonly used in its production.
Understanding the Basic Ingredients of Ready Roll Icing
To determine whether ready roll icing is vegan, we must first understand its typical composition. While specific recipes can vary between brands, the core ingredients usually include sugar, glucose syrup, vegetable oil or shortening, water, glycerol, modified starch, and various gums, and titanium dioxide for coloring. These ingredients, however, are not always inherently vegan.
Sugar: A Potential Area of Concern
Sugar, the primary component of ready roll icing, can sometimes be processed using bone char, a byproduct of the animal industry. Bone char is used to filter and decolorize sugar, resulting in a whiter, more refined product. Although bone char doesn’t remain in the final sugar product, its use in the processing makes it non-vegan for many adhering to the ethical considerations of veganism. It is important to note that not all sugar is processed using bone char. Beet sugar, for instance, rarely uses it.
Glucose Syrup: Usually Vegan-Friendly
Glucose syrup, another key ingredient, is typically derived from corn or wheat starch, making it generally vegan. However, it’s always wise to double-check the source, particularly if you have any allergies.
Vegetable Oil/Shortening: Check the Source
Vegetable oil or shortening contributes to the icing’s pliability and texture. Most ready roll icings use vegetable oils, such as palm oil, sunflower oil, or rapeseed oil, which are inherently vegan. However, ethical considerations surrounding palm oil production, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, might lead some vegans to avoid products containing it. This is a separate ethical concern from strict veganism, which focuses on the use of animal products.
Glycerol: Potential Animal Origin
Glycerol (also known as glycerin) is a humectant that helps retain moisture and keep the icing soft. Glycerol can be derived from either animal or plant sources. Unless the packaging explicitly states that the glycerol is vegetable-based, it can be difficult to ascertain its origin.
Modified Starch: Typically Vegan
Modified starch acts as a thickener and stabilizer. It is usually derived from corn, potato, or tapioca, making it vegan-friendly.
Gums: Often Vegan
Various gums, such as tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, and cellulose gum, are used to improve the icing’s texture and elasticity. These are generally vegan ingredients, sourced from plants or produced through microbial fermentation.
Titanium Dioxide: A Vegan Whitener
Titanium dioxide is a common food coloring used to make the icing white. It is a mineral-based ingredient and is vegan.
Common Non-Vegan Ingredients to Watch Out For
While many of the ingredients in ready roll icing are potentially vegan, some ingredients frequently render the product non-vegan.
Gelatine: A Definite No-Go
Gelatine, derived from animal collagen, is sometimes used as a gelling agent in icing. This is a definitive non-vegan ingredient. Always check the label carefully.
Honey: A Sweetener to Avoid
Though less common, some ready roll icing recipes may incorporate honey as a sweetener. Honey is an animal product and is not vegan.
Beeswax: A Glazing Agent
Beeswax is occasionally used as a glazing agent to give the icing a shiny finish. As a product derived from bees, it’s not vegan.
Decoding Labels and Identifying Vegan Options
Reading the ingredient list is crucial when determining if ready roll icing is vegan. Look for clear indications of plant-based alternatives and be wary of ambiguous terms.
Look for Vegan Certifications
Many brands are now offering certified vegan ready roll icing. Keep an eye out for logos from reputable vegan certification organizations, such as the Vegan Society, as these products have undergone thorough scrutiny to ensure they meet strict vegan standards.
Scrutinize the Ingredient List Carefully
If a product isn’t certified vegan, carefully examine the ingredient list. Look for terms like “vegetable glycerol” or “plant-based glycerine” to ensure the glycerol is derived from plants. Be cautious about vague terms like “natural flavorings,” as these could potentially be derived from animal sources. If uncertain, contact the manufacturer directly for clarification.
Consider Sugar Sourcing
If bone char-free sugar is a concern, look for brands that explicitly state they use unrefined sugar or beet sugar, or contact the manufacturer to inquire about their sugar sourcing practices.
Making Your Own Vegan Ready Roll Icing
The best way to ensure your ready roll icing is completely vegan is to make it yourself. This gives you full control over the ingredients and allows you to avoid any potential animal products.
Basic Recipe and Ingredients
A simple vegan ready roll icing recipe typically includes powdered sugar, cornstarch, vegetable shortening, glucose syrup or corn syrup, vegetable glycerin, and water. You can also add flavorings, such as vanilla extract, or natural food colorings.
Recipe Steps
Sift the powdered sugar and cornstarch together in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable shortening, glucose syrup, vegetable glycerin, and water. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly powdered surface until it is pliable and elastic. Wrap the icing in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Tips for Success
Use high-quality powdered sugar for the best results. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can make the icing too sticky. If the icing is too dry, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time. Store homemade vegan ready roll icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Vegan Ready Roll Icing Brands and Where to Find Them
While finding readily available vegan ready roll icing in mainstream supermarkets can still be a challenge, several brands are now offering vegan-friendly options.
Online Retailers
Online retailers specializing in vegan baking supplies are a great resource for finding vegan ready roll icing. These stores often carry a wider variety of brands and offer detailed ingredient information.
Specialty Food Stores
Specialty food stores and health food stores are also likely to carry vegan ready roll icing. Check the baking section or ask a store employee for assistance.
Supermarkets
Some larger supermarkets are beginning to stock vegan baking products, including ready roll icing. Look for products labeled “vegan” or check the ingredient list carefully.
Alternatives to Ready Roll Icing
If you’re unable to find vegan ready roll icing or prefer a different type of decoration, several vegan alternatives exist.
Vegan Buttercream Frosting
Vegan buttercream frosting is a classic choice for cake decorating and is relatively easy to make. You can use vegan butter, powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract.
Vegan Royal Icing
Vegan royal icing is a stiff icing traditionally made with egg whites, but vegan versions use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute.
Vegan Ganache
Vegan ganache is a rich and decadent icing made with vegan chocolate and plant-based cream. It’s perfect for covering cakes and cupcakes or making chocolate decorations.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Determining whether ready roll icing is vegan requires careful attention to the ingredient list and awareness of potential animal-derived ingredients. While some commercially available options are vegan, many contain ingredients like gelatine, honey, or glycerol of uncertain origin. Making your own vegan ready roll icing provides the ultimate assurance of its vegan status, allowing you to create beautiful and ethically sound cake decorations. By understanding the ingredients and exploring vegan alternatives, you can confidently create delicious and compassionate desserts that align with your values. Remember to always read labels, research brands, and consider making your own icing to ensure your creations are truly vegan.
Is all Ready Roll Icing vegan?
Ready roll icing, also known as fondant or sugar paste, is not always vegan. The ingredients can vary significantly between brands and even different products within the same brand. Common non-vegan ingredients found in some ready roll icing include honey, beeswax, gelatin, and dairy-derived ingredients such as milk powder or whey. Therefore, careful inspection of the ingredient list is crucial to determine its vegan status.
Always check the packaging thoroughly for a “vegan” certification or label. If no such label exists, scrutinize the list for the ingredients mentioned above, or any other animal-derived products. If you are unsure about an ingredient, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and choose a product clearly labeled as vegan or opt for a homemade vegan icing recipe.
What non-vegan ingredients are commonly found in ready roll icing?
The most common non-vegan ingredients to watch out for in ready roll icing are honey and beeswax, both sourced directly from bees. These are used as sweeteners or texturizers and are not considered vegan. Another ingredient frequently used as a gelling agent is gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen.
Dairy products such as milk powder, whey, or even butter can also be found in some ready roll icing recipes to add creaminess or improve the texture. Some brands may also use shellac, a resin secreted by the lac beetle, as a glazing agent. It’s important to carefully read the ingredient list to avoid these animal-derived products.
How can I tell if ready roll icing is vegan by looking at the label?
The easiest way to determine if ready roll icing is vegan is to look for a certified vegan label on the packaging. These certifications, such as the Vegan Society logo, ensure that the product has been thoroughly vetted and meets vegan standards, providing assurance without the need to scrutinize every ingredient. However, not all vegan products are certified, so further investigation might be necessary.
If there is no certification, carefully examine the ingredient list. Look for the absence of ingredients like honey, beeswax, gelatin, milk powder, whey, shellac, or any other ingredient that sounds like it could be animal-derived. When in doubt, research the questionable ingredient online to confirm its source.
What are some vegan alternatives to ready roll icing?
Several readily available vegan alternatives to traditional ready roll icing exist. One option is to create your own vegan fondant using ingredients like powdered sugar, vegetable shortening, corn syrup or glucose syrup, vanilla extract, and water. This allows for complete control over the ingredients, ensuring it’s entirely vegan.
Another alternative is to look for brands that specifically produce vegan ready roll icing. Many health food stores and online retailers offer vegan fondant made with plant-based ingredients like vegetable gums and starches to achieve the desired texture and consistency. Always double-check the ingredient list, even on products marketed as vegan, to confirm they meet your personal standards.
Can I make my own vegan ready roll icing at home?
Yes, it is entirely possible and relatively easy to make your own vegan ready roll icing at home. The key ingredients are powdered sugar, a plant-based fat such as vegetable shortening or vegan butter, liquid glucose (corn syrup), and water or a plant-based milk. Flavorings like vanilla extract or lemon juice can be added for extra taste.
The process typically involves combining the wet ingredients and then gradually incorporating the powdered sugar until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Kneading the dough well helps develop its elasticity. You can find numerous recipes online that provide step-by-step instructions and variations to suit your preferences, offering a customizable and guaranteed vegan option.
Are there any brands that consistently offer vegan ready roll icing?
While the availability of consistently vegan ready roll icing brands can vary depending on your location, some brands are known for offering vegan options. Renshaw, for example, often has vegan-friendly fondant products, but it’s crucial to always verify the specific product label before purchasing, as formulations can change.
Additionally, smaller, specialized vegan baking supply companies are increasingly entering the market, offering plant-based fondant options. Researching online retailers specializing in vegan baking ingredients can lead you to discovering such brands. Remember to read product reviews and ingredient lists to ensure the product meets your needs and is indeed vegan.
What should I do if I accidentally use non-vegan ready roll icing?
If you accidentally used non-vegan ready roll icing on a cake or baked goods, the first step is not to panic. Assess the situation and determine the extent of the non-vegan contamination. If you are serving others, inform them that the product is not vegan, allowing them to make informed choices.
Depending on your personal ethical stance, you may choose to discard the portion of the cake with the icing or the entire cake if you are strictly vegan. Alternatively, if the accidental use of non-vegan icing does not significantly impact your personal values, you may choose to proceed consuming it while being more diligent in the future. This is a personal decision based on individual beliefs and comfort levels.