Vegan snacks and junk food; they’re able to get you through a hectic work week or a long study session in the dimly lit basement of a library. And let’s not forget, they’re even capable of pulling you through the kind of huge breakup that has you crying, looking for something to help eat the pain away.
We’re thrilled to discover that many food businesses have been producing inexplicably vegan snacks for years. Thus, we’ve put together the following list of vegan snacks that we love as our go-to cruelty-free snacks that can be found almost anyplace.
Keep this list handy to refer to it when you’re taking a journey in the far reaches of nowhere, need something tasty to snack on while watching a film, or are working hard to overcome a tough time and need something sweet or salty to fuel you through it.
1. Oreo Cookies
Why not include the most famous cookie ever to exist as the starting point for this delicious vegan junk food list?
Oreos were one of the first mainstream cookies to be vegan. While we’re not sure when Nabisco, the company that produces Oreos, made the decision to ditch the dairy and create dairy free junk food, we do know that this move was made sometime in the late 1990s or early 2000s.
Nabisco has never explicitly stated that Oreos are vegan, but they have stated that the cookies do not contain any animal products. So, for all you vegans out there, feel free to indulge in this classic cookie without any guilt.
Fun fact: Oreos are one of the few mainstream cookies that are also suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease as they are made with gluten-free flour.
2. Tostitos
Tostitos are another vegan-friendly snack that has been around for years. These chips are produced by Frito Lay, and like Oreos, the company has never explicitly stated that Tostitos are vegan.
However, a quick scan of the ingredient list shows that these chips are also free of any animal products. So, if you’re ever in the mood for some chips and guacamole, Tostitos is a great option.
Just beware that not all Tostitos flavors are vegan-friendly, so be sure to check the ingredient list before you buy. The Hint of Lime, Hint of Jalapeno, and Roasted Red Pepper flavored chips aren’t vegan friendly. However, all of the non-flavored options of Tostitos chips and all of its salsas are vegan.
3. Original Ritz Crackers
Ritz crackers are another vegan-friendly snack that has been around for years. This is another dairy free junk food produced by Nabisco, and like Oreos, the company has never explicitly stated that Ritz crackers are vegan.
However, a quick scan of the ingredient list shows that these crackers are also free of any animal products. So, if you’re ever in the mood for some crackers and cheese, Ritz crackers are a great option.
Just keep in mind that not all Ritz crackers flavors are vegan-friendly, so be sure to check the ingredient list before you buy.
4. Pringles
The ultimate snack to stack is available at nearly any local supermarket – just make sure you choose the original flavor, which is vegan-friendly. (Barbecue can be vegan within certain areas but make sure to look whether the ingredients list contains milk!).
With these, you can make mini-meals like a personal-sized vegan chili or nacho dish. Simply top with some Follow Your Heart vegan cheese and pop in the microwave for a few seconds. So good!
5. Hummus
While not exactly a vegan junk food, this Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, and tahini is a powerhouse of vegan protein and makes for a great vegan snack when paired with some pita chips or veggie sticks.
Most store-bought varieties of hummus are vegan, but be sure to check the label to make sure there are no sneaky animal products hiding in there.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own hummus at home.
6. Chips & Salsa
This classic snack is a great option when you’re looking for something salty and satisfying.
While most store-bought salsa is vegan, be sure to check the label to make sure there are no sneaky animal products hiding in there.
As for chips, nearly all varieties are vegan-friendly. So, whether you’re in the mood for tortilla chips, potato chips, or something in between, you’re sure to find a vegan option that suits your fancy.
We recommend Tostitos brand salsas and their original chips. But other vegan-friendly chips and salsa options exist, of course!
7. Takis
The two flavors of these crunchy, spicy chips are made from vegan ingredients: Takis Fuego and Takis Nitro.
They’re not the healthiest snack on this list, but they’re definitely one of the most fun. The flavor combinations are out of this world, and they’re sure to satisfy your craving for something crunchy and salty.
8. Pop-Tarts (unfrosted)
We know what vegan options we’ll be enjoying for our mid-morning snack! Unfrosted Strawberry, Blueberry, and Brown Sugar are all vegan! (The Frosted Strawberry and Blueberry Pop-Tarts contain dairy, so those are not vegan.)
This is one of the most recognizable breakfast brands and for good reason – these toaster pastries are delicious! While some flavors contain honey and dairy, the vast majority are vegan.
9. Doritos
Doritos are another vegan-friendly snack that has been around for years. These chips are produced by Frito Lay, and like Oreos, the company has never explicitly stated that Doritos are vegan.
However, a quick scan of the ingredient list shows that these chips are also free of any animal products. So, if you’re ever in the mood for some chips and salsa, Doritos are a great option.
Just keep in mind that not all Doritos flavors are vegan-friendly, so be sure to check the ingredient list before you buy. The Spicy Sweet chili-flavored tortilla chips are vegan and available in vending machines or at gas stations, making them an excellent choice.
10. Pita Chips
The creator of pita chips with salt knew he or she was on to something. Whether you try these with hummus or as a stand-alone chip, these are absolutely satisfying!
The original flavor is almost always vegan-friendly, and it’s easy to find these chips at your local grocery store.
If you’re looking for a more exotic flavor, make sure to check the nutrition facts to ensure the ingredients are all vegan-friendly!
11. Fruit by the Foot
In 1991, the fruity snack became an ideal monetary substitute for lunchtime or at the playground. That’s right. The fruity roll-up is vegan AND satisfies sweets cravings like no other!
With flavors like Berry Tie-Dye, Cherry, and Strawberry Banana, there’s a vegan snack for everyone. Keep in mind, you can make some homemade vegan Fruit by the Foot, too!
12. Fun Dip
This tangy treat is one of the most underrated vegan snacks around. The powder comes in two colors – blue raspberry and cherry – which are both mixed with sugar to create a delicious flavor.
And, if that’s not enough to get your sweet tooth going, the powder can also be used to coat lollipops.
Unlike many other candies with a cherry/red flavor, this brand doesn’t use Carmine (made from beetles). Instead, they’re using a synthetic coloring agent called red 40.
While there’s nothing healthy about this sweet treat, it’s vegan and satisfies those with a sweet tooth craving.
13. Whole Wheat Ritz Crackers
That’s right! Whole Wheat Ritz Crackers are another vegan snack that has been around for years.
These crackers are made with flour, sugar, palm oil, and salt – all vegan-friendly ingredients.
If you’re looking for a savory option, try the Whole Wheat Ritz Crackers. These crackers are also vegan and offer a slightly healthier option.
There’s no butter added to the original flavor of these delicious and practical crackers. They’re made using vegetable oils. So, you can enjoy them with nut butters, vegan cheeses, and salsas.
14. Sour Patch Kids
Sour Patch Kids are absolutely timeless, and they’re one of the few vegan candies that are still around.
These sour gummies are made with sugar and corn syrup rather than gelatin or eggs – which are vegan-friendly ingredients.
We’re all set to indulge in sweets with this soft, chewy, and non-gelatine sweet. Even the adored Sour Patch Watermelon is vegan!
15. Ruffles Potato Chips
Are Ruffles potato chips vegan? You bet they are!
Classic Original and Canadian cult favorite All Dressed are both dairy-free varieties of these well-known crinkle-cut potato chips.
As for the other flavors, a quick glance at the ingredient list shows that they’re also vegan-friendly.
So, if you’re ever in the mood for some chips, Ruffles are a great option. Just keep in mind that not all Ruffles flavors are vegan-friendly, so be sure to check the ingredient list before you buy
16. Smarties
We remember wearing Smarties candy necklaces as well as bracelets, rings, and necklaces as kids; do you? Keep that nostalgia coming!
Smarties do not contain any animal-based ingredients and have been confirmed by the company to be vegan. The primary colors are derived from plant sources.
Yellow 5 & 6, Red 40, and Blue 1 are all synthetic dyes that are commonly used in food manufacturing. These dyes do not come from animals.
17. Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars
Is Nature Valley Crunchy vegan? Not all of them.
The Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate, Oats ‘n Dark Chocolate, Oats ‘n Honey, and Maple Brown Sugar aren’t vegan. Keep this in mind as you’re shopping for vegan granola bars!
Granola bars are an excellent option to pack in your backpack for studying, hiking, or even for travel. The flavors include:
Apple Crisp, Cinnamon
Peanut Butter
Pecan Crunch
Roasted Almond
You’ll find an abundance of flavors that satiate any sweet tooth without hesitation!
18. Lay’s Classic Potato Chips
You’ll find these at almost any party, and while not necessarily healthy, this junk food is cruelty-free!
Lays Classic Potato Chips are considered vegan as they do not contain any animal-based ingredients. The primary flavorings come from natural seasonings and spices.
Classic, Barbecue, Salt and Vinegar as well as Lightly Salted Barbecue flavors have no animal-derived ingredients. Tailgates and sports games are now much easier upon realizing these snacks are vegan.
19. Smucker’s Uncrustables
These jelly and peanut butter snacks are easy to find in the frozen aisle. However, while some of these snacks are vegan, all of them are vegetarian (besides the Hazelnut Spread Sandwich).
The Grape Jelly and Strawberry Jam flavors are both vegan and readily available for your snacking pleasure. We’re packing Uncrustables up for an upcoming outdoor picnic without hesitation!
20. Thomas’ New York Style Bagels
Thomas’ New York Style Bagels are commonly found throughout supermarkets in the US. While they might not have meant to make their bagels vegan, they do not contain any animal products.
If you’re looking for a more substantial breakfast or a filling snack, then a bagel that’s topped with nut butter or vegan cream cheese or butter is certainly delightful. Blueberry, Cinnamon Swirl, Everything, and Plain varieties are all vegan-friendly – and tasty!
21. Lindt Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate with 70 80, 85, as well as 90 percent cacao is healthy, isn’t it? Of course! Just don’t look at the sugar and you’ll be fine!
Some of this brand’s chocolate bars are vegan. However, keep in mind, that this isn’t the case for all of them. Most of them contain milk products, making them not the most vegan-friendly brand. Make sure to double-check before you buy!
22. Clif Bars
A classic snack to take to exercise in the outdoors Every flavor option offered by Clif Bars is vegan, except for the Mini Blueberry Crisp.
Cinnamon-Raisin Walnut, Chocolate Brownie, Cookies & Cream, White Chocolate Macadamia Nut, and many other flavors exist without containing any animal-based ingredients.
The company that produces Clif Bars also offers Luna bars, which are also vegan. Most supermarket chains will have both options available for purchase.
23. Nabisco Triscuit Crackers Baked Whole Grain Wheat
We’ve seen vegan crackers growing in popularity and it’s easy to see why! We can’t keep our hands off of the fire-roasted Tomato as well as Olive Oil and Rosemary Triscuits with a bunch of homemade hummus!
Nabisco is constantly updating its vegan offerings and we couldn’t be happier! Keep in mind, while some Triscuits are vegan, others might not be. Make sure to check the ingredients labels before making your purchase!
24. Nabisco Grahams Original Crackers
The giant of snack foods, Nabisco, seems to be on the right track. The company’s ginger snaps, Oreo 100 Calorie Packs along with Saltine Crackers are all vegan. We can’t wait to see what vegan deliciousness Nabisco offers next!
These Grahams are honey-free and perfect for your animal product-free chocolate and vegan marshmallows s’mores!
25. Snyder’s of Hanover Jalapeno Pretzel Pieces
Anything with a jalapeno flavor is bound to get us excited. But when it’s in pretzel form? We’re all in!
These pretzels are not only vegan but also dairy-free, making them a great snack for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.
While Snyder’s of Hanover offers many other flavors of pretzels, the Jalapeno is just one of its vegan pretzel options. Snyder’s Pretzel Sticks in Oat Bran and Pumpernickel & Onion are both vegan-friendly options, too.
26. Sun Chips
Usually marketed as a healthier option for oily potato chips, it’s not surprising that the original flavor was vegan from the start.
While the company that produces Sun Chips has since expanded its flavor options, the original flavor is still vegan.
All of the other flavors, however, contain milk products and are not vegan. However, if you’re in the mood for a non-vegan Sun Chip, the French Onion and Garden Salsa flavors are both vegetarian.
Keep in mind, that the French Onion, Harvest Cheddar, Chili Lime, and Garden Salsa options aren’t vegan.
27. Swedish Fish
Is this for real? Yes, it is! Unlike traditional fish and chips, Swedish Fish is a vegan brand.
Swedish Fish doesn’t contain any gelatin. Rather than using gelatin, the company uses corn syrup, carnauba wax, and corn starch to get its gummy texture just right. Thus, you can eat these fish without worrying about consuming any animal products.
28. Nutter Butter Cookies
Nutter Butter cookies are some of the tastiest cookies on the market, particularly if you love peanut butter. These cookies are also vegan!
Nutter Butter cookies don’t contain any dairy products. While some brands of peanut butter cookies do, Nutter Butter’s use of hydrogenated vegetable oils keeps them free of any animal-based ingredients.
Made of peanuts and offering the same delicious taste of peanut butter, Nutter Butter Cookies were never meant to be vegan. It just so happened that they are, and we couldn’t be happier!
29. belVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits
These belVita Crunchy Breakfast Biscuits are a vegan’s dream come true.
While the package says “contains wheat,” there’s no mention of any dairy products. The only other ingredient in these biscuits is sugar, making them a great option for those on a plant-based diet.
Plus, they’re super tasty and perfect for on-the-go snacking.
These biscuits are perfect for people who love to travel. They’re crunchy and provide an energy boost that lasts for quite a long time. And let’s not forget, that the flavor options are next-level. Flavors we love include Cinnamon Brown Sugar and Toasted Coconut.
Closing on Vegan Snacks & Junk Food
It’s hard to believe that some of our favorite snacks are vegan. Whether we’re talking about Swedish Fish, Nutter Butter Cookies, or Sun Chips, there are plenty of vegan-friendly snacks to choose from.
So, the next time you’re at the grocery store or road-tripping and stop at a gas station, don’t forget to stock up on some of these delicious vegan snacks! And, if you’re ever in doubt, just check the ingredients list to be sure.
With so many vegan snacks on the market, it’s easy to find one that satisfies your cravings. So go ahead and indulge in your favorite junk food—just make sure it’s vegan first!
By the way, if you love ice cream, make sure to check out our other post about Ben & Jerry’s vegan ice cream flavors!