Navigating a vegetarian diet can sometimes feel like walking through a dietary minefield, especially with so many products masquerading as “veggie-friendly.” You’d be surprised how many foods contain hidden animal-derived ingredients that could trip up even the most diligent vegetarians. These 13 common foods are often mistaken for vegetarian-safe options but be careful, oftentimes there are non-vegetarian ingredients lurking the shadows of the nutrition label.

A bowl of sauce with a spoon next to a bottle of beer.
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Pop Tarts

Three boxes of pop tarts are on display in a store.
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Some Pop Tarts flavors include gelatin in their frosting, making them unsuitable for vegetarians. However, the brand offers non-frosted varieties that avoid this issue, for those avoiding animal-derived ingredients.

Marshmallows

A bowl of candy shaped like bunnies.
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It’s a little-known fact that marshmallows usually have gelatin, which is made from animal bones and connective tissue. For those looking to avoid animal products, there are vegan marshmallows made with plant-based gelatin alternatives.

Gummy Candy

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Gummy candies are another sweet treat that often includes gelatin. However, vegans and vegetarians can find joy in versions made with pectin or agar-agar, which provide that signature chew without the use of animal products.

Jello

A box of jello next to a cup of chocolate.
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The main ingredient in Jello, gelatin, excludes it from a vegetarian diet. Thankfully, there are vegetarian-friendly versions that use agar-agar, a seaweed-derived substance, to create a similar jiggly effect.

Panna Cotta

Coconut Key Lime panna cotta on a white plate.
Key Lime Coconut Panna Cotta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This Italian dessert typically relies on gelatin for its smooth texture, which isn’t vegetarian. Yet, agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian substitute, allowing everyone to enjoy this creamy treat which is so worth it!

Caesar Salad

Fresh caesar salad with croutons and shaved cheese on a white plate.
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The classic Caesar dressing contains anchovies, often overlooked by vegetarians. Finding or making a version of the dressing without anchovies makes this salad a safe choice.

Worcestershire Sauce

A bowl of sauce with a spoon next to a bottle of beer.
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This sauce traditionally includes anchovies as a key ingredient, which might not be known to all vegetarians. Vegetarian versions of Worcestershire sauce are available and provide a similar flavor profile without the use of fish.

Many Hard Cheeses

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Some hard cheeses use animal rennet in the curdling process, an enzyme extracted from the stomachs of young ruminant animals. Vegetarians should look for cheeses that specify the use of microbial rennet instead.

Curries

A bowl of curry with rice and vegetables.
Winter Curry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Many curries might contain hidden animal products like fish sauce or shrimp paste for added flavor. Vegetarians can enjoy curries by ensuring these ingredients are omitted or substituted with vegetarian alternatives.

Pie Crust

A pie with a lattice pattern on top.
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Some store-bought pie crusts include lard (rendered pork fat), not suitable for vegetarians. There are lard-free options available, or you can make your own crust with vegetable shortening.

Canned Refried Beans

A bowl of refried beans topped with shredded cheese served with tortilla chips and lime.
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Lard is a common ingredient in many brands of canned refried beans. However, labels marked “vegetarian” use plant-based oils, making them a safe bet.

Altoids

Assorted altoids mints in various flavors on display.
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Altoids contain gelatin, a fact that may surprise vegetarians. Looking for candies marked as vegan ensures you’re getting a product without animal-derived gelatin.

Twinkies

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An unexpected ingredient in Twinkies is beef fat, making them off-limits for vegetarians.

10 Foods We Bet You Didn’t Know Were Vegan

Oreo cookies are sitting next to each other on a white surface.
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Did you know your snack drawer might be more vegan than you think, and not necessarily for the health halo? Yep, some of those guilty pleasures are secretly skipping the animal products, but not always for the reasons you’d expect. It’s less about the wellness vibes and more about the “huh, who knew?” moments.

Read it Here: 10 Foods We Bet You Didn’t Know Were Vegan

8 Foods You Should Never Cook In A Cast Iron Pan

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Cast iron skillets are celebrated for their durability and versatility in the kitchen, handling everything from searing steaks to baking cornbread with ease. However, they come with their own set of rules, especially when it comes to what should or shouldn’t be cooked in them. Certain foods can damage the seasoning of your pan or just make for a culinary headache due to sticking and interacting with the iron. Here’s a breakdown of the worst foods to cook in a cast iron pan, ensuring your skillet stays pristine and your meals turn out great.

Read it Here: 8 Foods You Should Never Cook In A Cast Iron Pan

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Founder and Writer at Running to the Kitchen | About

Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.

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