How to Tell if It's Vegan: A Simple Guide to Reading Labels Like a Pro

How to Tell if It's Vegan: A Simple Guide to Reading Labels Like a Pro

Switching to a vegan lifestyle feels empowering but reading food labels can be confusing at first. You might pick up a “plant-based” product only to find it contains hidden animal ingredients. So how do you tell if something is truly vegan?

In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of how to read food labels, what ingredients to watch for, and how to feel confident about what’s on your plate.

Why Labels Matter

Not all products marked “plant-based” or “natural” are fully vegan. Some may still contain milk, eggs, honey, or other animal-derived additives. Understanding food labels helps you:

• Make informed choices

• Avoid hidden animal ingredients

• Stay aligned with your vegan values

At Swasthya by Kinjal, we help make plant-based living simple and stress-free with clear, beginner-friendly guidance like this.

Step 1: Check for Vegan Certification

Look for trusted vegan symbols such as:

• ✅ “Certified Vegan”

• ✅ “100% Plant-Based”

• ✅ The Vegan Society sunflower logo

These labels mean the product is free from animal ingredients and was not tested on animals.

Step 2: Scan the Ingredients List

Even if there’s no vegan logo, you can still identify whether a product is vegan by scanning its ingredient list. Watch out for these common animal-derived ingredients:

• Casein, whey, lactose (all come from milk)

• Gelatin (made from animal bones)

• Carmine (red coloring from insects)

• Honey, beeswax, royal jelly

• Shellac (from insect resin)

• Egg whites, albumin, egg powder

• Anchovies or fish sauce in dressings or sauces

If you spot any of these, the product is not vegan.

Step 3: Be Wary of Hidden Non-Vegan Additives

Some ingredients sound harmless but can be non-vegan. Examples include:

• Natural flavors – these can be plant or animal-based (contact the brand if unsure)

• Vitamin D3 – often comes from lanolin (sheep’s wool)

• Mono and diglycerides – can be plant-based or animal-based

If you’re not sure, search the brand’s FAQ or choose products clearly labeled vegan.

Step 4: Watch for Allergens and “Contains” Statements

Even if a product says “may contain milk” or “processed in a facility that handles eggs,” it might still be vegan. These statements are usually there for allergy safety, not because the product contains animal ingredients. But if you're strict, it's good to know.

Step 5: Choose Simpler, Whole Foods When in Doubt

The easiest way to avoid label confusion is to eat fresh, natural, whole foods like vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. These foods are naturally vegan and great for your health too.

Need help building a healthy vegan plan? Check out our easy vegan diet plans created to make your life simpler and more balanced.

Final Thoughts

Reading labels is a valuable skill that gets easier over time. When in doubt, choose certified vegan products or reach out to the brand directly. With practice, you’ll be able to shop confidently and maintain your vegan values without the guesswork.

At Swasthya by Kinjal, we’re here to support you with trusted advice, clean diet plans, and plant-based guidance every step of the way.