The debate about whether coffee is vegan or not has been on everyone’s lips lately, and although coffee itself is of plant origin, its preparation may involve ingredients of animal origin. What exactly makes a coffee vegan? Let’s clarify the fundamental aspects that define this booming trend.
Coffee, in its most basic form, is completely vegan, as it simply comes from coffee beans and water. However, the term “vegan coffee” refers to how the drink is prepared and consumed, avoiding the use of animal products or byproducts.
One of the main points to consider is the choice of alternative products to milk and cream. In vegan coffee, plant-based options such as almond, soy, oat, coconut or rice drink are used instead of animal-based dairy. In addition, it is essential to verify that the additives and flavorings used are also of plant origin to maintain the vegan integrity of the drink.
Another crucial aspect is the selection of sweeteners suitable for vegans. Although sugar is naturally plant-based, some refining processes may involve the use of charcoal from animal bones. For this reason, vegans often opt for unrefined sugars, agave nectar, maple syrup or other plant-based sweeteners.
Apart from the components used, it is essential to take into account the coffee processing and filtration procedures, as they can sometimes involve the use of products of animal origin. It is essential that vegans educate themselves about the methods used in coffee shops to ensure that the coffee meets their ethical principles and values.
But vegan coffee isn’t just about ingredients; It also covers ethical and environmental aspects. Plant-based dairy alternatives tend to be healthier, with fewer calories and fat than cow’s milk, and do not contain cholesterol, benefiting cardiovascular health.
In addition, its production requires fewer water and land resources and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions than dairy farming, making it a more sustainable option.
