

Vegetarians are often surprised to find that cheese containing rennet isn’t vegetarian at all. Rennet is an enzyme that separates liquid milk from solid curds to create these cheeses. Some hard, aged cheeses like gorgonzola, Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, and Grana Padano use rennet in the ingredients list. For example, in baked goods, it typically adds a buttery taste. High-grade lard comes from visceral fat found inside the loin and around the kidneys. It can come from any part of the pig, according to The Salt Cured Pig. You might find that some chefs like to cook using lard in place of butter or oil. It’s also often found in other baked goods and refried beans. Lard is a hidden secret for many bakers who love using it to make their pie crusts extra flaky and crisp.
Pork gelatin free#
To avoid the potential for ingesting an ingredient derived from pork, read the ingredients list thoroughly to find baked goods free of L-cysteine or options made with vegan L-cysteine. It may also come from bird feathers or human hair. It reduces mixing time by breaking down the proteins in the dough. This amino acid is used as a dough conditioner. It helps soften the gum for an easier chew.Ĭommercial bread, bagels, tortillas, pie shells, pizza dough, and pastry commonly contain L-cysteine. The Los Angeles Times points out that it can also be found in certain chewing gums. It’s often used for making cosmetics, candles, and soaps. It has a melting point around 158 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a fatty acid that’s solid at room temperature. Stearic acid is made from the fat of pigs, sheep, or cows. Look for vegan options or items thickened with pectin or agar-agar instead for pork-free alternatives. You might also find it in the ingredients list of some vitamins, seasickness medicines, toaster pastries, and some beers and wines. Peanuts are often coated with gelatin to help the salt or other seasonings stick.

Jell-O, certain ice creams, puddings, gummy candies, and marshmallows are just a few of the common foods on the market that contain gelatin. It’s commonly made from the connective tissues, skin, and bones of pigs and cows. Gelatin is a colorless, flavorless, and odorless ingredient that thickens liquids.
