What Is Vegan Beer?

Are you a beer lover who follows a vegan lifestyle? If so, you may be surprised to learn that not all beers are vegan-friendly. While beer is typically made from ingredients like water, malt, hops, and yeast, some beers may also contain animal products or by-products, making them unsuitable for those on a plant-based diet.

Why Is Beer Not Vegan?

So, what exactly makes a beer vegan or not? The answer lies in the production process. Many beers may use animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin, isinglass (a fish bladder derivative), or even lactose to clarify or flavour the beer. These ingredients are used to give the beer a clearer appearance or to enhance its taste, but they can pose a problem for vegans.

Many brewers have been using these ingredients for centuries to achieve a desired flavour or appearance. However, as more consumers become aware of the impact of their food and drink choices on animals and the environment, the demand for vegan-friendly options is on the rise.

Thankfully, there are now many breweries that are producing vegan beer, free from animal products or by-products. These beers are typically made using alternative clarifying agents such as Irish moss, bentonite, or activated charcoal. By opting for vegan beer, you can enjoy your favourite beverage guilt-free, knowing that no animals were harmed in the making of your drink.

What Beer Is Vegan?

At Beer Merchants you can find a range of craft breweries that offer mostly or completely Vegan friendly ranges. Explore some of our favourite beer brands below, who offer a mostly Vegan range of brews, always be sure to check the labels on each beer to ensure you are getting a complete VE friendly beverage.

Soundwave is a 5.6% west coast IPA. This golden beauty is bursting with lively grapefruit, peach, and mango flavours, transporting you to the sunny shores of California where craft ale is king. She's the driest of Siren's ales, packing a punch of flavour with just a hint of bitterness. Prepare to be swept off your feet by her resinous finish. Cheers to adventure in every sip! 

Yu Lu is a uniquely refreshing and invigorating brew, infusing the bold flavours of Earl Grey tea and zesty lemon. With hints of peach and apricot, along with the tangy essence of bergamot, this beer offers a delightful balance of flavours that are sure to leave a lasting impression. 

Experience the explosion of tropical fruit flavours in this golden ale from Hawaii! With a delightful aroma of pineapple and passion fruit, this beer offers a refreshing taste with hints of papaya and pineapple. Its clean finish will leave you craving more with each sip. 

This brew offers a refreshing departure from traditional American light beers. With a unique biscuit malt flavour, complemented by North American hops that deliver a delightful floral aroma and a hint of fruitiness on the finish, this lager is truly one-of-a-kind. And don't forget the crisp, dry aftertaste that sets this beer apart as a true classic. 

Lightly hopped, refreshing pale ale, fermented with a brewers yeast that can't ferment Maltose. With a low ABV taste, you can enjoy the beer without the buzz. And now infused with Grapefruit for a new twist on a classic favourite! 

This refreshingly tangy brew strikes the perfect balance between lemony sourness and a touch of sweetness, making it a must-try for any beer enthusiast. And now, conveniently available in a can for an extra burst of freshness and zing. 

Cheers!