Is Multigrain & flaxseed water crackers Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and go straight to the label. The ingredient list for these crackers is surprisingly clean, but there is one specific item that requires a closer look.

First, let's look at the good. The base consists of Enriched Flour and Whole Wheat Flour, providing the structure. The fat source is High Oleic Sunflower Oil, which is excellent because it is 100% plant-derived and free of trans fats. The inclusion of Flax Seeds and an Ancient Grain Flour Blend (Spelt, Millet, Quinoa, Khorasan Wheat) adds texture, fiber, and omega-3s without relying on animal products.

However, the flag appears with Sugar. In the United States, a significant portion of refined white sugar is processed using bone char (ground animal bones) to filter and bleach it. Unless the manufacturer specifies that they use organic sugar, beet sugar, or cane sugar that is not processed with bone char, this ingredient renders the product non-vegan for many strict vegans. Fortunately, there are no dairy derivatives like whey or casein, nor are there eggs.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, these crackers are a solid choice for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet. The combination of High Oleic Sunflower Oil and Flax Seeds provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA).

The calorie density is moderate, making them a suitable snack for weight management if portion control is exercised. The Ancient Grain Blend offers a diverse amino acid profile compared to standard wheat flour. However, because of the added Sugar, they do have a slightly higher glycemic load than a plain salted cracker, which is something to monitor if you are managing blood sugar levels.