fbpx

BLOG

The V Word! Why Vegan Chocolate is Best

Welcome to the delectable realm of vegan chocolate, where every bite is a harmonious blend of ethical indulgence and environmental mindfulness.

At Mr Popple’s Chocolate, we’ve been perfecting the art of crafting vegan chocolate since 2007, and our passion for quality is matched only by our commitment to sustainability.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the multifaceted reasons behind the vegan lifestyle and why vegan chocolate is the superior choice for your taste buds and the planet.

Whether you are already vegan, or are vegan curious, you are not alone – the number of vegans worldwide has seen a significant increase, with estimates suggesting there are approximately 79 million vegans globally as of 20241. In the UK alone, the vegan population has risen by an estimated 1.1 million between 2023 and 2024, reaching around 2.5 million vegans, which is 4.7% of the adult population2. This rise is part of a decade-long surge in veganism, reflecting a broader shift towards plant-based diets and sustainable living.

globe-with-vegan-chocolate-and-vegan-food in front of it

Understanding Vegan Chocolate

Mr Popple’s Chocolate is a tasty treat that aligns with the principles of veganism. All of our bars are made without any animal-derived ingredients, so no milk or milk products are used in its production.

Vegan milk chocolate often uses alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk to achieve the creamy texture we associate with traditional chocolate. Our favourite combination of vegan milks for our vegan milk chocolate bars is a mix of gluten-free oat milk with gluten-free rice milk, due to the superior nutritional profiles, reduced environmental impact, and deliciously creamy taste when blended with our chocolate.

Why Go Vegan? The Core Motivations

Animal Welfare: A Heartfelt Concern

For many, the path to veganism is paved with compassion for animals. Choosing vegan chocolate is a powerful statement against the exploitation and suffering of sentient beings in the food industry. It’s a choice that says, “I care,” and it’s a choice that makes a difference.

Choosing vegan chocolate can help prevent the distress caused by the dairy industry’s practice of separating calves from their mothers, so when you pick up a bar of our chocolate, you’re not just enjoying a sweet treat; you’re taking a stand. You’re saying no to the dairy industry’s often harsh treatment of cows and yes to kindness. Every bar of Mr Popple’s Chocolate is a vote for a more humane world.

And it’s not just about what you’re against; it’s about what you’re for. Mr Popple’s Chocolate is about celebrating life without causing harm. It’s about indulgence that doesn’t come at someone else’s expense. It’s a small choice that speaks volumes about the kind of world you want to live in—one where compassion reigns supreme.

Environmental Impact: Our Planet’s Plea

When you choose vegan chocolate, you’re not just picking a treat; you’re saying, “I care about our planet.” And the planet thanks you for it. Here’s why:

You’re cutting down on emissions. Dairy farms pump out more greenhouse gases than plant-based food production. So, when you savor that vegan chocolate, you’re helping to put the brakes on climate change.

You’re saving water. It takes a lot of water to produce a glass of dairy milk, but plant-based milks? Not so much. By going for vegan chocolate, you’re keeping our rivers and lakes fuller

You’re standing up for forests. Cows need a lot of space, space that often comes from cleared forests. Plant-based ingredients don’t need as much room, so forests get to stay forests.

So, next time you unwrap a bar of Mr Popple’s Chocolate, remember: it’s more than just chocolate. It’s a choice for a greener, kinder world. And it’s delicious, too!

Health: Your Body’s Ally

Choosing vegan chocolate is a smart move for your health. It’s not just about cutting out animal products; it’s about embracing a diet rich in nutrients and low in saturated fats. Our vegan chocolate bars, sweetened naturally with yacon syrup and coconut sugar, offer a delicious way to enjoy sweets without the guilt. They’re packed with fibre, which is great for digestion, and they fit perfectly into a balanced diet that supports heart health and weight management.

Let’s delve into the specifics. Our dark chocolate bars, sweetened with yacon syrup, are a treat that’s kind to your blood sugar levels. And our vegan milk chocolate bars? They’re a creamy dream, thanks to oat and rice milk – and they’re just as sweet as non vegan milk chocolate, using coconut sugar. We craft all of our chocolate bars with raw, organic cacao, which is not only better for you but also bursting with antioxidants and polyphenols.

So, when you’re craving something sweet, reach for our vegan chocolate. It’s a choice that’s good for your body and delicious on your taste buds. With every bite, you’re supporting your health and indulging in a treat that’s been crafted with care and quality ingredients. It’s a win-win that’ll make both you and your body happy. Enjoy the rich flavors and the health benefits, knowing you’re making a choice that’s good for you in more ways than one.

Ethical Reasons: Aligning Actions with Values

When you choose vegan chocolate, you’re making a statement that resonates with your core values. It’s a declaration that you stand for justice and compassion, not just for the environment, but for all beings. Veganism, at its heart, is about aligning your actions with your ethics. It’s about saying no to animal exploitation and yes to a kinder way of living. And when it comes to chocolate, it’s about enjoying a treat that’s free from animal suffering.

Opting for vegan chocolate also means you’re supporting a more equitable food system. You’re casting a vote for a world where food production doesn’t rely on animal agriculture, which often involves practices that many find ethically questionable. It’s about making choices that reflect a commitment to human rights and the welfare of all creatures. With every vegan chocolate bar you enjoy, you’re contributing to a demand for products that are made ethically and responsibly.

Moreover, choosing vegan chocolate is a step towards sustainable living. It’s a way to indulge in your chocolate cravings while still upholding the principles that matter most to you. Vegan chocolate is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a symbol of your dedication to ethical living. It’s a delicious reminder that you don’t have to compromise your values for the sake of your taste buds. So, go ahead and savor our chocolate, knowing that it’s a choice that’s good for both you and the world around you.

Allergies and Intolerances: A Considerate Choice

For those navigating the tricky waters of dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, Mr Popple’s Chocolate is a beacon of hope. It offers a safe harbor, allowing you to indulge in the rich, creamy delight of chocolate without the worry of discomfort or allergic reactions. You see, our chocolate sidesteps the dairy dilemma entirely, swapping out milk for plant-based alternatives that are just as creamy and delicious. So, you can bite into that bar of Mr Popple’s Chocolate with confidence, knowing it’s a treat your body will thank you for.

But it’s not just about avoiding discomfort; it’s about inclusion. Vegan chocolate ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions, can join in the joy of chocolate. Whether you’re sharing a box of chocolates with friends or baking a batch of brownies for a party, choosing vegan means nobody gets left out. It’s a thoughtful way to ensure that everyone gets to experience the pleasure of chocolate, no exceptions.

And let’s not forget the variety! Mr Popple’s Chocolate comes in an array of flavours and textures that rival traditional dairy chocolate. From the velvety smoothness of our sweet Creamy Mylk chocolate bar to the complex and rich flavours of our Atey Ate% and Signature Seventy dark chocolate bars, we offer a vegan chocolate bar to suit every palate. We have a range of flavoured bars too, from our fruity and spicy Amarillo Chilli, to the Creamy Orange bar that would make Terry proud. It’s a world of choice that opens up, not just for those with allergies and intolerances, but for anyone looking to explore the diverse and delicious realm of chocolate without dairy. So go ahead, give Mr Popple’s vegan chocolate a try – your taste buds (and your tummy) will be glad you did.

The Journey of Vegan Chocolate – From Bean to Bar, Our Artisan Process

Making vegan chocolate from bean to bar.

Selecting the Finest Cocoa Beans

Our chocolate’s journey begins with the Criollo cacao, a heritage variety cherished for its rich and complex flavor. Sourced from a cooperative of dedicated farmers in Peru, this rare strain is the cornerstone of our chocolate bars. Criollo cacao is known for its nuanced taste profile, often described as a blend of floral, fruity, and spicy notes4.

Crafting Chocolate Without Animal Products

Our vegan milk chocolate bars are crafted with a blend of gluten-free oat and rice milks. These plant-based milks contribute to the creamy texture and are a sustainable choice for our environment. We enhance the creaminess with lucuma fruit from Peru, a natural sweetener with health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy properties6.

For our vegan dark chocolate bars, we use yacon syrup as a sweetener. Yacon syrup is valued for its low glycemic index and prebiotic properties, making it a health-conscious choice7.

Our vegan milk chocolate bars are sweetened with coconut sugar, a sustainable and environmentally friendly option that supports a diverse ecosystem8.

Through these carefully selected ingredients, we ensure that every bar of chocolate is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a testament to our passion for quality, sustainability, and the well-being of our planet.

Indulge Guilt-Free: The Health Perks of Vegan Chocolate

Nutritional Advantages Over Traditional Chocolate

Mr Popple’s Chocolate is not only a treat for the palate but also a boon for your health. It’s lower in sugar and compared to traditional chocolate, making it a smarter choice for those mindful of their intake3. It is also rich in antioxidants, especially the dark varieties, which can offer a heart-healthy boost and may even aid in regulating blood sugar levels due to their low glycemic index10.

How Vegan Chocolate Fits Into a Balanced Diet

Incorporating Mr Popple’s Chocolate into a balanced diet can be a delightful way to enjoy sweets without overindulging. Chocolate bars made with natural sweeteners like yacon syrup and coconut sugar provide a healthier alternative to the high-fat and high-sugar content found in many conventional chocolate. When enjoyed in moderation, you can satisfy your sweet tooth while contributing to a well-rounded diet, thanks to beneficial compounds like catechins, which are known to support fat burning and promote heart health3.

Enjoy as part of a balanced diet and relish the rich flavors while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s a dark chocolate bar sweetened with yacon syrup or a creamy milk-style chocolate bar made with oat and rice milk, Mr Popple’s Chocolate is a delicious way to treat yourself responsibly.

Our Commitment to Eco-Conscious Practices

We are dedicated to eco-conscious practices throughout our production process. From ethical sourcing that supports farmers’ cooperatives in Peru to using gluten-free oat and rice milks, we ensure that our impact on the planet is as gentle as our chocolate is on your palate. Our packaging is designed to be as sustainable as our ingredients, using materials that are recyclable and biodegradable, aligning with the global movement towards reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.

By choosing our vegan chocolate, you’re not only indulging in a delicious treat but also contributing to a more sustainable and ethical world. Enjoy the rich flavors of our chocolate, knowing that every bite supports eco-friendly practices and the well-being of our planet.

Common Questions about Vegan Chocolate

  • Is it healthy? Yes – especially vegan dark chocolate, which can be a good source of antioxidants and might offer health benefits similar to those of regular dark chocolate.3 We handmake our chocolate bars with raw (unroasted) organic cacao, and our chocolate has been tested by Oxford Brookes University. They found that our chocolate is “significantly higher in antioxidants and polyphenols” compared to 4 leading UK dark chocolate brands.
  • Does it taste good? Absolutely! Many people find it just as delicious as traditional chocolate. The taste can vary based on the ingredients used, but there are plenty of options to suit different taste buds. Many people comment on how “clean” and creamy our vegan milk chocolate bars are.
  • Where can I buy it? You can find it in health food stores, some supermarkets, and online
  • What is the difference between artisan chocolate and cheaper chocolate? Here are some key reasons why our handmade artisan chocolate bars stand out from mass produced brands:
Artisan HandmadeFactory Made
QualitySuperior, with attention to detailOften compromised for mass production
IngredientsEthically sourced, organic, nutritiousMay include additives and preservatives
TasteRich, complex flavor profilesStandardized and less nuanced
ProductionSmall-batch, crafted with careAutomated, less personal

Our chocolate is a dairy-free delight, catering to those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, allowing them to indulge without digestive discomfort. Moreover, it’s a sustainable choice. By eschewing dairy, we reduce the environmental footprint associated with traditional chocolate production.

Taste Experience

A Symphony of Flavors: The Gourmet Taste of Vegan Chocolate

Mr Popple’s Chocolate is a canvas for a multitude of flavors, each bar offering a unique sensory journey.

Our vegan dark chocolate bars boast a rich and complex profile, with the Criollo cacao providing a base of deep, earthy tones complemented by hints of red fruits and spices. The lucuma fruit adds a subtle sweetness and a creamy texture, while the yacon syrup in our some of our dark bars introduces a mild, caramel-like flavor without overpowering the cacao’s natural bitterness.

  • Pure Peruvian Chocolate bar

    PURE PERUVIAN – Ceremonial Cacao, 100% Raw Criollo Chocolate Bar- 35g

    £2.39
    Add to basket
  • Atey Ate Chocolate bar

    ATEY ATE% – 88% Raw Cacao – Yacon Sweetened Dark & Rich Chocolate Bar – 35g

    £2.49
    Add to basket
  • Signature Seventy Chocolate bar

    SIGNATURE SEVENTY – 70% Raw Cacao – Yacon Sweetened Dark & Creamy Chocolate Bar – 35g

    £2.49
    Add to basket
  • Signature Seventy 70g Bar

    75g – SIGNATURE SEVENTY – 70% Raw Cacao – Yacon Sweetened Dark & Creamy Chocolate Bar

    £4.49
    Add to basket
  • Dark Orange Vegan Organic Chocolate Bar

    75g – EUPHORIC ORANGE – Organic Orange Chocolate Bar – Sweetened with Yacon Syrup

    £4.49
    Add to basket
  • 88% Strong Organic Vegan Chocolate

    75g ATEY ATE% – 88% Raw Cacao – Yacon Sweetened Dark & Rich Chocolate Bar

    £4.49
    Add to basket
  • Amarillo Chilli Chocolate bar

    AMARILLO CHILLI – Dark Chocolate with Fruity Peruvian Chilli – 65% Cacao with Coconut Sugar -35g

    £2.39
    Add to basket

In contrast, our vegan milk chocolate bars are crafted for those who crave a sweeter, more indulgent experience. These bars blend the delicate flavors of Criollo cacao with the smooth, rich creaminess of gluten-free oat and rice milks. The addition of lucuma fruit enhances the natural sweetness, creating a bar that’s both luscious and satisfying. Perfectly balanced to be much sweeter and creamier than our dark varieties, our vegan milk chocolate bars are a heavenly treat that melts in your mouth, offering a comforting embrace of sweetness in every bite.

  • Creamy Mylk Vegan Chocolate Bar

    CREAMY MYLK – The Ultimate Dairy Free Vegan Milk Chocolate Bar – 35g

    £2.39
    Add to basket
  • Dark Mylk Vegan Chocolate bar

    DARK MYLK – Plant-Based, Dairy Free Vegan Dark Milk Chocolate Bar – 35g

    £2.39
    Add to basket
  • Vegan Dairy Free Milk Chocolate Bar

    75g – CREAMY MYLK – The Ultimate Dairy Free Vegan Milk Chocolate Bar

    £4.29
    Add to basket
  • 75g Dairy Free Minty Mylk Chocolate Bar

    75g – MINTY MYLK – Plant-based, Dairy Free Vegan Milk Chocolate Bar

    £4.29
    Add to basket
  • Creamy Orange Plant based vegan friendly chocolate bar

    75g – CREAMY ORANGE – Zesty Dairy Free Vegan Milk Chocolate Bar

    £4.29
    Add to basket
  • Creamy Orange Plant based vegan friendly chocolate bar

    CREAMY ORANGE – 35g – Sweet, Creamy and Deliciously Dairy Free Orange Milk Chocolate Bar

    £2.39
    Add to basket
  • Minty Mylk chocolate bar

    MINTY MYLK – Plant-Based Minty Milk Chocolate – 35g

    £2.39
    Add to basket

FAQs: Your Questions Answered About Vegan Chocolate

  1. Is all dark chocolate vegan?
    Not all dark chocolate is vegan. Some brands add milk fat or other dairy derivatives, so it’s important to check the label
  2. Can vegans eat chocolate with ‘may contain milk’ labels?
    These labels indicate potential cross-contamination, not direct dairy content. It’s a personal choice for vegans whether to consume these products
  3. What are the best vegan chocolate brands?
    There are many great vegan chocolate brands. Look for those that explicitly state they are vegan or check the ingredients for dairy-free alternatives
  4. Is vegan chocolate healthy?
    Vegan chocolate can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. Not all bars are created equally – some brands use cheap, nutritionally void ingredients such as white sugar.
  5. Can vegan chocolate be used in baking?
    Absolutely! Vegan chocolate melts well and can be used in any recipe calling for chocolate, from brownies to ganache
  6. Does vegan chocolate have a different texture?
    The texture can vary depending on the ingredients used. Some vegan chocolates may be creamier with the addition of plant-based milks, while others might be more dense or rich
  7. Is vegan chocolate more expensive than regular chocolate?
    Vegan chocolate can be more expensive due to the quality of ingredients and ethical sourcing practices. Handmade artisan chocolate is very labour intensive, which can also increase the price.

References: