As the popularity of cannabis-infused edibles grows, consumers are presented with a variety of choices that cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Two common categories in the edibles market are regular cannabis gummies and vegan cannabis gummies. While both deliver the desired effects of cannabis, their ingredients and overall impact can differ significantly. In this article, we’ll explore what sets these two types of gummies apart.
Key Ingredient Differences
The primary difference between regular and vegan cannabis gummies lies in their ingredients:
- Regular Gummies: Commonly contain gelatin (derived from animal collagen), dairy, and sometimes honey.
- Vegan Gummies: Use plant-based alternatives like pectin or agar-agar for texture, along with non-dairy fats and sweeteners like agave syrup.
These ingredient swaps make vegan gummies suitable for people following vegan or vegetarian diets, as well as for those with specific allergies or dietary restrictions.
Taste and Texture: What to Expect
When it comes to taste and texture, regular and vegan cannabis gummies have some differences, though the gap is narrowing as vegan options improve:
- Regular Gummies: Often have a traditional chewy texture thanks to gelatin, with a rich, sugary flavor enhanced by various artificial or natural ingredients.
- Vegan Gummies: Tend to be a bit firmer or softer depending on the plant-based thickener used, and they may feature a more natural, fruit-forward taste due to the lack of animal by-products.
One of the main advantages of pectin-based vegan gummies, besides being plant-based, is their resistance to melting during summer heat. Unlike gelatin-based gummies, pectin-based edibles maintain their consistency even in warmer temperatures, making them a more reliable option for those on the go.
Pros & Cons
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Gummies | Familiar taste and texture, widely available, often cheaper | Contains animal products, melts in heat, not suitable for vegans |
| Vegan Gummies | Plant-based, suitable for vegans, won’t melt in heat, eco-friendly ingredients, ingredient quality often better and more natural | May have firmer texture, slightly more expensive, fewer options available |
The Vegan Edible Market in Canada
The vegan edible market in Canada remains largely underrepresented on online dispensary shelves, with most options still dominated by regular, animal-based products. However, this trend is beginning to shift as consumer demand for plant-based alternatives grows. Brands like Eden, which craft natural and vegan edibles, are at the forefront of this movement, helping to expand the availability of this type of cannabis treats. Eden’s commitment to producing high-quality vegan products is leading the way for more options that meet the needs of vegan and health-conscious consumers across Canada.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer regular or vegan cannabis gummies largely depends on your dietary needs, ethical views, and personal preferences. Regular gummies provide the familiar taste and texture many are accustomed to, while vegan gummies offer a plant-based alternative that’s resistant to melting and caters to a growing demographic of health-conscious and ethically-minded consumers. With brands like Eden leading the charge, the future of vegan edibles in Canada is looking brighter and more accessible than ever. No matter which option you choose, both types of gummies deliver the benefits of cannabis in a convenient, tasty form.