Halloween 2008 - Vegetarian Food Ideas

Posted by Jill Harris Oct 31, 2008

Happy Halloween! Even though I doubt even omnivores would consider eating eye of newt, Halloween is one of the most vegetarian-friendly holidays - no stuffed birds here! But there are a few things you should remember when it comes to trick-or-treating while maintaining an animal-free lifestyle.

Candy

• Some candy contains gelatin, egg whites, animal-derived colour or other animal ingredients. Seek vegetarian treats like chocolate, or take a peek at the list of vegetarian and vegan Halloween candies.
• Some food colourings are derived from animals. Fruitopia brand drinks, for example, use carmine (cochineal) to colour their pink drinks.

Party Food

• "Slimy eyeballs" and "brains" are part of any good Halloween party. But what's really scary is that they can made from animal gelatin too. Seek animal-friendly alternatives like peeled grapes for eyeballs, and cold rice noodles for brains

At Home - Dinner and Snacks

• Witches and goblins can't survive on just candy. Fill bellies before trick-or-treating to minimize candy gorging and keep the kids (and you) in better spirits. Think easy pasta, veggie-pigs in a blanket, or baked beans with a vegetarian breakfast, for dinner.
• Snack on roasted pumpkin seeds until bedtime. They'll make the house smell warm and inviting.