Beer has been part of human culture for centuries, but not all beers are created equal—especially when it comes to being vegan. While the core ingredients of beer—malted barley, yeast, hops, and water—are plant-based, some brewing methods involve animal-derived products. If you’re looking for vegan-friendly beer, here’s what you need to know.
WHAT MAKES SOME BEERS NON-VEGAN?
Not all beers fit the vegan bill. Two common ways animal products make their way into beer production include:
Non-Vegan Additives
Some beer styles, like milk stouts, cream ales, or certain “smoothie” beers, include lactose. Derived from cow’s milk, lactose is used to add sweetness and body to the beer. Honey, another non-vegan ingredient, is occasionally used in craft beers for flavour and fermentable sugar.
Clarifying Agents
Fining agents help clarify beer, making it bright and visually appealing. However, traditional fining agents such as isinglass (derived from fish bladders) and gelatine (animal-derived) are not vegan-friendly. While these agents settle out of the final product, their use in the brewing process means the beer cannot be classified as vegan.
HOW DO I KNOW IF A BEER IS VEGAN?
Look for Labels
Vegan-friendly beers often indicate this on their packaging. However, not all breweries provide this information, especially for draught beer served in pubs.
Use Online Tools
Websites like Barnivore.com offer extensive databases of vegan beers. With a quick search, you can check if your favourite brew aligns with your values.
Trust Small Beer
At Small Beer, we’re proud to be 100% vegan. Our brewing process avoids animal-derived ingredients and fining agents, ensuring every sip aligns with a cruelty-free ethos.
HOW SMALL BEER STANDS OUT
No Lactose Needed
Many low-alcohol beers use lactose to build body and mouthfeel. Not us. At Small Beer, we only use thigh-quality ingredients and store our beers longer than the industry standard. This natural process creates full-bodied flavour without animal-derived additives.
Plant-Based Clarification
Instead of traditional fining agents like isinglass, we let time do the work. Our beers undergo a process called long lagering, allowing yeast and proteins to naturally settle out. This creates beautifully clear beer without compromising our ethics.
Ethical and Sustainable Brewing
Our commitment to vegan brewing reflects our dedication to sustainability and ethical production. By avoiding animal products, we minimise harm while offering exceptional beers that everyone can enjoy. At our core, we are a brand that values quality and sustainability in everything we do. So, when in doubt, remember that a brand like Small Beer prioritises you and the planet.
WHY VEGAN BEER MATTERS
Choosing vegan beer isn’t just about avoiding animal products; it’s about aligning with values of compassion and sustainability. According to PETA, animal-derived ingredients involve unnecessary exploitation, and avoiding these products is a simple way to make a positive impact. By choosing a brand like Small Beer, which offers vegan, flavourful, and sustainably brewed beers, you are supporting a kinder, more sustainable world.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Beer can be part of a healthy lifestyle when you choose mindfully. With its low alcohol content and thoughtful design, Small Beer offers a way to enjoy life’s moments without compromise. Small Beer is the perfect fit for those who value their health and enjoyment.
