Ask A Vegan: Can I Have Haribo Back?

If I told you the number of times I’ve cried about missing marshmallows was 12, I’d be lying. It’s way higher. It’s gotten to the point where the person I’ve roped into proofreading this before I hit ‘publish’ is probably yawning. I talk about it all. the. time. It runs deep.

There always seems to be one ingredient or food that is so hard to let go of when going plant-based. Whether it’s cheese (classic), chocolate (standard) or honey (how I miss you, too) there’s always – at least – one thing we miss, no matter how hard we try to forget it. 

So, do you ‘vegan sin in secret’, or suck it up and move past the triggering confectionery aisle?

Q: I CAN’T NOT EAT HARIBO… CAN I?

A: Brb, sobbing into a pack of marshmallows.

This is a really tricky one. Is it ok to ‘cheat’ on your veganism when it comes to those classic treats you love so much? Who can say. There isn’t a plant-based president telling us what we can and can’t do, it’s up to us to make decisions about what we’re ok with. And if you’re anything like me, these decisions might waiver on occasion. Maybe it’s after you’ve had a glass of wine (or three), or if you’re back home with your parents/grandparents and can’t resist a childhood favourite. You can be the most motivated person in the world, but there might still be that little niggle at the back of your mind, or cupboard, saying ‘eat me’.

This is another topic that came up a lot with our Instagram community when we asked about vegan mishaps. This idea of craving and caving, eating in secret, or heartbreak at the corner shop hit a nerve and sparked a whole new conversation. To break your veganism or not, or to stay strong and plant-based. It’s a toughie, but it’s ultimately your choice. Here are some of my own tips for coping when those cravings hit.

How to cope when you really miss something that’s not vegan:

• Hunt down alternatives like there’s no tomorrow. I love (and I cannot stress this enough) M&S and its Plant Kitchen range. I genuinely squealed at the nice cashier as I paid for my vegan marshmallows, my favourite addition to the growing offering. They are one of the best plant-based treats I’ve ever eaten, and are as soft, squishy and all-round heavenly as the non-vegan ones. Find your version of the M&S vegan marshmallows. And it might take a while, but it’ll be worth it, trust me.
• Discover new, plant-based delights. Was a Galaxy bar your go-to when you needed a sweet fix, pre-plant-based life? If vegan chocolate isn’t your thing (though again, trust me; there are loads of great options out there now), look for other ways to satisfy your sweet tooth. From vegan-friendly ice creams, to vegan-friendly sweets, there are options out there for all now. You’ve just got to be in the know. 
• Get your DIY on. Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Whack on your apron and do a Val (our Food Editor). Getting creative in the kitchen can be a great way to satisfy your cravings, save cash and food waste. So basically, become a hero. Check out Val’s vegan sweet recipes here, and if savoury is more your thing, there’s plenty of those, too. 
• Share your thoughts. If you’re feeling vocal, or are particularly passionate about a particular product, why not get in touch with the brand to ask them to consider making a vegan version? The more they hear requests like this, the more likely they’ll deliver the goods, after all. This is a great article packed with tips for getting more vegan options at your favourite restaurants, too.

Our menu of breakfasts, mains, desserts and more has you covered for cravings throughout the day. Order your box of plant-based, chef-made meals today.