Yes, Old El Paso Taco Seasoning is vegan. The seasoning does not contain any animal products or by-products, making it suitable for those following a vegan diet.
Ingredients
The ingredients of Old El Paso Taco Seasoning include:
- Spices
- Dehydrated Onion
- Salt
- Corn Starch
- Sugar
- Dehydrated Garlic
- Citric Acid
- Dehydrated Bell Pepper
- Dehydrated Tomato
- Natural Flavor
- Cayenne Pepper
As you can see from the ingredients list, there are no animal-derived ingredients present in the seasoning.
Certifications
Old El Paso Taco Seasoning does not have any specific certifications indicating it is vegan, such as the Vegan Society’s Vegan Trademark. However, based on the ingredients, it is safe to conclude that the seasoning is vegan-friendly.
Allergen Information
Old El Paso Taco Seasoning does not contain any common allergens such as milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, or soy. It is, therefore, suitable for individuals with various allergies and dietary restrictions.
Usage and Suggestions
Old El Paso Taco Seasoning is a versatile seasoning blend that can be used to make delicious vegan tacos, burritos, or other Mexican-inspired dishes. Here are a few usage suggestions:
- Sprinkle the seasoning on sautéed vegetables for a flavorful and quick taco filling.
- Mix the seasoning with cooked beans for a tasty vegan bean filling.
- Add the seasoning to vegan ground meat substitutes for a flavorful taco “meat”.
- Combine the seasoning with cooked rice and black beans for a delicious burrito bowl.
- Use the seasoning as a marinade for tofu or mushrooms before grilling or baking.
Comparison with Homemade Taco Seasoning
Some individuals prefer making their own taco seasoning to have full control over the ingredients. Here is a comparison between Old El Paso Taco Seasoning and a homemade taco seasoning:
| Ingredient | Old El Paso Taco Seasoning | Homemade Taco Seasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Spices | Yes | Yes |
| Dehydrated Onion | Yes | Yes |
| Salt | Yes | Yes |
| Corn Starch | Yes | Optional |
| Sugar | Yes | Optional |
| Dehydrated Garlic | Yes | Yes |
| Citric Acid | Yes | No |
| Dehydrated Bell Pepper | Yes | No |
| Dehydrated Tomato | Yes | No |
| Natural Flavor | Yes | Optional |
| Cayenne Pepper | Yes | Optional |
As seen in the comparison table, Old El Paso Taco Seasoning includes a few additional ingredients like corn starch, sugar, citric acid, dehydrated bell pepper, dehydrated tomato, natural flavor, and cayenne pepper. These additional ingredients contribute to the specific flavor profile of the seasoning.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a convenient and vegan-friendly option for seasoning your tacos or Mexican dishes, Old El Paso Taco Seasoning is a great choice. With its blend of spices and other flavor-enhancing ingredients, it provides a delicious and hassle-free way to add flavor to your meals.