Walking into a grocery store as a new vegan can feel like navigating a minefield. The aisles are filled with products whose ingredients lists look like they were translated from a long-lost ancient language, and you can’t be sure what’s vegan and what’s not.
Fear not, intrepid shopper! The vegan aisle is here to help. In this guide, we’ll unlock the secrets of the vegan aisle and help you navigate the ever-expanding world of plant-based products. By the end of this guide, you’ll be a pro at spotting vegan-friendly products, and you’ll have all the knowledge and confidence you need to make the most of your shopping experience.
What is the Vegan Aisle?
The vegan aisle is a section of a grocery store that is dedicated to vegan-friendly products. It’s a one-stop shop for all of your plant-based needs, from meat alternatives to dairy substitutes to pantry staples.
In recent years, the vegan aisle has exploded in popularity as plant-based eating has gone mainstream. While it may still be a bit hidden in some stores, it’s worth keeping an eye out for. After all, who wouldn’t want an aisle all to themselves?
Navigating the Layout
The vegan aisle can look a little different depending on the layout of the grocery store. In some stores, it may be a dedicated aisle with a sign proudly proclaiming its vegan-friendliness. In other stores, it may be more spread out, with vegan products tucked into various corners of the store.
That being said, there are a few categories of vegan products that you can always count on finding in the vegan aisle. So, whether you’re in the bulk foods section, the freezer case, or the condiments aisle, keep an eye out for:
- Meat alternatives, like plant-based burgers, sausages, and deli slices
- Tofu, tempeh, and seitan
- Legumes, nuts, and seeds
- Plant-based milks, like almond, soy, oat, and coconut
- Cheese substitutes
- Yogurt and kefir alternatives
- Grains and flours, like quinoa, rice, and whole wheat
- Condiments and sauces, like vegan mayonnaise, mustard, and salad dressings
- Baking supplies, like vegan chocolate chips, nut butters, and egg replacers
- Frozen meals and entrees
- Snacks and treats, like vegan chips, crackers, and cookies
- Protein bars and energy bites
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to stock up on some vegan essentials.
Stocking Up on Vegan Essentials
One of the best things about veganism is the wide variety of delicious plant-based foods that are available to you. From hearty proteins to creamy dairy substitutes, the vegan aisle is a treasure trove of tasty options.
If you’re just starting out on your vegan journey, or if you’re looking to add some new products to your shopping cart, here are some vegan essentials that you won’t want to miss.
Protein-Rich Options
Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair tissues in the body. As a vegan, you have plenty of plant-based options for getting your daily dose of protein. Here are some of the best ones to look out for in the vegan aisle:
- Meat alternatives, like plant-based burgers, sausages, and deli slices. These are great options for adding protein to your meals in a convenient and tasty way.
- Tofu, tempeh, and seitan. These soy-based products are high in protein and can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to sandwiches.
- Legumes, nuts, and seeds. All of these foods are high in protein and make for great snacks or additions to meals.
Not only are these foods delicious and versatile, but they’re also good for the planet. Plant-based foods have a lower carbon footprint than animal products, so choosing these options is better for the environment, too.
Dairy Alternatives
Dairy products are a common source of calcium and vitamin D in the diet. As a vegan, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting these important nutrients from plant-based sources instead. Here are some dairy alternatives that you can find in the vegan aisle:
- Plant-based milks, like almond, soy, oat, and coconut. These are great for drinking on their own or using in recipes. Look for unsweetened versions if you don’t want added sugar.
- Cheese substitutes. There are many different types of vegan cheese on the market, from slices that melt perfectly on pizza to shreds that are great for topping tacos or mac and cheese.
- Yogurt and kefir alternatives. These come in a variety of flavors and can be used in the same way that you would use dairy yogurt. Look for unsweetened versions to avoid added sugar.
Many plant-based milks are also fortified with calcium and vitamin D, so be sure to check the nutrition label to make sure you’re getting these important nutrients. You can also look for fortified plant-based yogurts and cheeses.
Exploring Vegan Convenience Foods
While whole, plant-based foods are the foundation of a healthy vegan diet, there’s no denying that sometimes you just want something convenient and tasty. That’s where vegan convenience foods come in.
There are all sorts of vegan convenience foods to be found in the vegan aisle, from frozen meals and entrees to snacks and treats. Here are some of the best options to look out for:
- Frozen meals and entrees. These are perfect for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking. Look for brands that use whole, plant-based ingredients and avoid added sugars and oils.
- Frozen plant-based proteins. These are great for adding protein to meals in a convenient way. Some options include frozen plant-based chicken and beef, as well as vegan sausages and meatballs.
- Snacks and treats, like vegan chips, crackers, and cookies. These are great for satisfying your cravings in a vegan-friendly way.
- Vegan candy and chocolate. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of vegan-friendly candy and chocolate options out there.
- Protein bars and energy bites. These are a great option for on-the-go snacking. Look for bars that are made with whole, plant-based ingredients and avoid added sugars.
While convenience foods can be a great addition to your vegan diet, it’s important to read the labels carefully and choose options that are made with whole, plant-based ingredients. Avoid products that have added sugars, oils, or unpronounceable ingredients.
Identifying Vegan-Friendly Labels and Certifications
One of the best ways to know for sure that a product is vegan is to look for a vegan label or certification. While not all vegan products have these, they can be a helpful guide when you’re unsure.
Some brands may simply label their products as “vegan,” but there are also a few different certifications that you may come across. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Certified Vegan. This seal is awarded by the Vegan Society, an organization that has been promoting animal-free living since 1944.
- Vegan Action. This certification is awarded by Vegan Action, a program of the nonprofit organization Animal Place. It’s a great option for shoppers looking for vegan-friendly products in the United States.
- Animal-Free. This certification is awarded by PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) to products that are made using only plant-based ingredients.
In addition to these vegan-specific certifications, there are also some plant-based certifications that can be helpful. For example, the USDA Organic label means that the product was made using only plants, and the Non-GMO Project Verified label means that the product does not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
When you’re in the grocery store, keep an eye out for these labels and certifications as you shop. They can be a helpful guide in navigating the vegan aisle.
Decoding Ingredient Lists
While labels can be helpful, they’re not always present. That’s why it’s important to know how to read ingredient lists, too. Here are some tips for doing just that:
- Look for plant-based ingredients. These are the foods that come from plants, like vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Examples of common plant-based ingredients include:
- Quinoa
- Rice
- Beans
- Lentils
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Avocado
- Tomatoes
- Soybeans and tofu
- Squash
- Kale
- Spinach
- Chickpeas
- Artichokes
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Corn
- Potatoes
- Bell peppers
- Onions
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Cucumbers
- Mango
- Pineapple
- Berries
- Bananas
- Apples
- Oranges
- Lemons
- Limes
- Grapes
- Coconut
- Olives
- Olive oil
- Avocado oil
- Coconut oil
- Maple syrup
- Agave nectar
- Soy sauce
- Tamari
- Nutritional yeast
- Lard or pork fat (may be listed as “pork drippings” or “pork fat”)
- Tallow (beef fat)
- Gelatin (derived from the collagen in animal bones, hooves, and skin)
- Isinglass (a type of fish bladder)
- Carmine (a type of bug extract, often used for color)
- Cochineal (another name for carmine, also derived from bugs)
- Lanolin (an oil that is secreted by sheep)
- Shellac (a resin secreted by the female lac bug)
- Vitamin D3 from sheep’s lanol (often listed as “cholecalciferol” and sometimes as “D-3”)
- Honey (not vegan, but sometimes used as a sweetener in savory products)
Of course, it’s impossible to memorize every single ingredient and additive, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you come across something unfamiliar. Just do your best to read the label and make an educated guess. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the manufacturer for more information.
Tips for Successful Vegan Grocery Shopping
Now that you know what to look for in the vegan aisle, it’s time to hit the grocery store! Here are some tips to help ensure that your vegan grocery shopping experience is a success.
Planning Your Vegan Grocery List
One of the keys to successful vegan grocery shopping is planning. Take some time before you go to the store to plan out what you’re going to make for the week. Look up some recipes, plan out your meals, and make a list of the ingredients you’ll need. This will help you stay focused when you’re in the store and avoid impulse purchases.
It’s also a good idea to prioritize your vegan needs and preferences. For example, if you have a soy allergy, you’ll want to make sure you avoid soy-based products. Or, if you’re trying to eat low-sodium, you’ll want to read labels carefully and avoid products with high levels of sodium.
Comparing Prices and Budgeting
While many vegan-friendly products are quite affordable, there are some that can be a bit pricier. That’s why it’s important to compare prices and do some budgeting. Look for sales and discounts on vegan-friendly products, and consider buying items in bulk when it makes sense.
For example, if you love nuts but they’re a bit pricey where you live, consider buying them in bulk online. You can also save money by buying grains and legumes in bulk at a local store or co-op.
In addition to saving you money, buying items in bulk is also better for the environment. Bulk packaging creates less waste than individual packages, so it’s a win-win.
Exploring Local and Specialty Stores
While most mainstream grocery stores now carry a decent selection of vegan-friendly products, you may still find that some items are harder to find. In that case, consider exploring local and specialty stores. Look for:
- Health food stores. These stores often carry a wide selection of vegan-friendly products, including many that are free from added oils and sugars.
- International markets. Many international markets carry a wide selection of plant-based foods from their home countries. This is a great place to find unique and delicious ingredients that you might not find elsewhere.
- Farmers markets. Farmers markets are a great source of fresh, seasonal produce. Look for stalls that sell fruits and vegetables, as well as grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and other plant-based foods.
By exploring these types of stores, you may be able to find a wider variety of vegan-friendly products at lower prices than you would at a traditional grocery store. Plus, you’ll be supporting local businesses and farmers.
Remember, the vegan aisle is here to help you navigate the grocery store and find all of the delicious and convenient plant-based products that you need. So, go forth, intrepid shopper, and conquer the vegan aisle!