Are Funyuns Vegan? The Truth About Ingredients, Dairy, and a Better Snack Option
Let me just start by saying — I used to love Funyuns.
And if you’re wondering are Funyuns vegan, you’re not the only one — I had to look it up too.
Like, “grab a bag on every road trip” kind of love.
There’s something about that fake onion flavor and that crunchy puff that was strangely addictive.
But the day I switched to a vegan lifestyle, Funyuns were one of the first snacks I reluctantly put back on the shelf.
Are Funyuns Vegan? Here’s What You Need to Know
Nope.
Not even a little bit.
Funyuns contain both whey and buttermilk powder, which are both dairy products.
That means they’re not vegan and not suitable for anyone who avoids milk for ethical, dietary, or allergy reasons.
Funyuns Ingredients: Are They Vegan-Friendly?
If you look on the back of a standard bag of Funyuns (which I did, of course), you’ll see the following list:
- Enriched corn meal
- Vegetable oil (corn, canola, and/or sunflower oil)
- Salt
- Corn starch
- Sugar
- Buttermilk powder
- Whey
- MSG
- Hydrolyzed corn protein
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Dextrose
- Natural flavors
- Artificial color (Yellow 5, Yellow 6)
The two big non-vegan ingredients here are whey and buttermilk powder.
Both are derived from milk.
Also, while “natural flavors” can sometimes include animal-derived ingredients, we don’t even need to go that far — the dairy is already a dealbreaker.
Are Flamin’ Hot Funyuns Vegan Too?
Unfortunately, no.
The Flamin’ Hot version also contains milk ingredients.
I know, the red bag is tempting — but it’s a no-go.
According to Frito-Lay’s official website, none of the Funyuns varieties are vegan or dairy-free.
Do Funyuns Have Dairy or Cross-Contamination Warnings?
This isn’t just a “may contain” situation.
The milk is a primary part of the seasoning blend.
So it’s not a question of trace amounts or shared equipment — milk is literally in the powder that coats each ring.
Vegan Alternatives to Funyuns That Actually Taste Good
Honestly? You’ve got two great options:
1. Try PeaTos Onion Rings
These are one of my favorite vegan swaps.
They’re crunchy, flavorful, and made with pea flour instead of corn.
- 100% vegan
- High in protein and fiber
- No artificial ingredients
They have a “Classic Onion” flavor that’s really close to the original Funyuns vibe — without the dairy or guilt.
I usually find them at Sprouts, Whole Foods, or even on Amazon when I want to buy in bulk.
2. Make Your Own Air-Fried Onion Rings
This one’s a little more involved, but super fun — especially if you’ve got kids who love to cook.
- Slice a yellow onion into rings.
- Soak in plant milk for 15 minutes.
- Mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika in a bowl.
- Dip onion rings into the dry mix, then place in your air fryer.
- Spray with avocado oil and cook at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Crispy, satisfying, and zero weird ingredients. Win-win.
Are There Other Crunchy Vegan Snacks Like Funyuns?
Honestly, there are so many good vegan snacks out now. A few of my go-tos:
- Hippeas White Cheddar Chickpea Puffs
- Trader Joe’s World’s Puffiest White Cheddar Corn Puffs (they’re vegan — check the label!)
- Rhythm Superfoods Kale Chips
- Boulder Canyon Avocado Oil Chips
I always keep a small stash of crunchy stuff in the car or my bag for emergencies (like when you’re stuck in traffic and the toddler just spilled juice everywhere).
Why Avoiding Funyuns Matters for a Vegan Lifestyle
When I first went vegan, I didn’t want to feel like I was giving up everything fun. Especially nostalgic snacks.
But what I’ve learned over time is that you can still have comfort food — you just need to read a few more labels.
And honestly? I eat way better now. Even my snacks are cleaner.
Knowing what’s in my food (and what’s not) gives me peace of mind — and helps me raise my little ones with good habits, too.
Final Thoughts on Whether Funyuns Are Vegan
Funyuns? Not vegan. But that doesn’t mean you’re missing out.
There are plenty of tasty, crunchy, oniony snacks that are 100% plant-based — and if you’re feeling fancy, you can make your own.
Try PeaTos. Make some air-fried onion rings. Explore vegan snacks from cultures around the world (I’m obsessed with Indian masala chips right now).
There’s a whole crunchy, savory world out there — and it’s yours to explore.
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Originally published on VeganYum23.com. Updated for 2025.
