If you call yourself a strict vegan, you avoid all animal‑derived ingredients—no milk, eggs, honey, gelatin, or even hidden dairy‑surfactants. The biggest challenge is spotting hidden animal products in everyday foods. Look out for terms like casein, whey, butterfat, or shellac on ingredient lists.
Start by building a pantry of trusted staples: plant milks, flaxseed or chia “egg” replacers, coconut oil, and a good stash of certified vegan sweeteners. When you shop, keep a cheat‑sheet of common non‑vegan additives. It saves time and stops you from buying a product that looks fine on the front but hides animal‑based ingredients inside.
Vegan candy can feel like a treasure hunt. Many popular brands still use gelatin or cochineal. Our quick guide:
When in doubt, lean on specialty vegan stores or online shops that certify their products. It’s worth the extra few seconds to avoid accidental animal ingredients.
Baking often feels like a science, but there are simple swap rules that keep your treats moist and tasty.
Egg replacements: For binding, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water—let it sit 5 minutes. For leavening, use 1/4 cup applesauce per egg.
Dairy alternatives: Unsweetened soy, oat, or almond milk work in most cake and brownie recipes. Coconut cream adds richness if the recipe calls for butter.
Chocolate and candies: Choose dark chocolate that’s at least 70% cocoa and labeled vegan. When a recipe calls for white chocolate, replace it with a dairy‑free blend of cocoa butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
These swaps let you recreate classics—like fudgy brownies or chewy cookies—without compromising your strict vegan stance.
Finally, remember that strict vegan living is a journey. Keep a list of your favorite certified products, experiment with new swaps, and share your finds with the community. The more you know, the easier it gets to stay 100% plant‑based while still enjoying sweet treats and delicious baked goods.
Discover what a level 5 vegan is, the philosophy behind it, and how to live by its strict standards. Learn about real-life examples, challenges, and practical tips for supreme veganism.
