Are Wendy's Fries Vegan? A Comprehensive Guide for Plant-Based Eaters

Popular fast food company Wendy’s serves a range of foods, including their renowned fries. However, if you’re following a vegan diet, you may be wondering if Wendy’s fries are vegan-friendly.

We’ll examine the components in Wendy’s fries in more detail and assess whether or not they are vegan in this article.

What Are Wendy’s Fries Made Of?

Potatoes are sliced into thin strips and fried in vegetable oil to create Wendy’s fries.

The potatoes are obtained from farms in the United States and Canada, and the vegetable oil used for frying is a blend of soybean and maize oil.

In addition to potatoes and vegetable oil, Wendy’s fries also contain a few other ingredients.

These include dextrose, a form of sugar that is typically used as a sweetener, and sodium acid pyrophosphate, which is used to keep the potatoes from turning brown.

Are Wendy’s Fries Vegan?

Let’s address the immediate question: Are Wendy’s fries vegan now that we are aware of what’s in them.

The answer is yes, Wendy’s fries are vegan. The fries are suitable for those who follow a vegan diet because none of the components were derived from animals.

The fact that Wendy’s fries are prepared in the same oil as other menu items like chicken nuggets and burgers should be noted.

While the oil itself is vegan, there is a potential of cross-contamination with animal products.

If you have a severe allergy or sensitivity to animal products, you may want to avoid Wendy’s fries or ask the staff to cook them in a separate fryer.

Are Wendy’s Fries Healthy?

While Wendy’s fries may be vegan, they aren’t exactly a healthy food. Like most fast food fries, they are heavy in calories, fat, and sodium.

A small order of Wendy’s fries includes 320 calories, 15 grams of fat, and 420 milligrams of salt. 530 calories, 24 grams of fat, and 690 milligrams of sodium are in a large order.

Instead of fries at Wendy’s, think about getting a side salad or a baked potato if you want a healthy option.

If you exclude the cheese and sour cream, these dishes can still be vegan-friendly yet having fewer calories and fat.

Alternatives to Wendy’s Fries

There are a few things to think about if you’re seeking a vegan-friendly substitute for Wendy’s fries. Here are a few concepts:

Crispy french fries on a table at Wendy's restaurant

1. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a popular alternative to regular fries and can be found at many restaurants and fast food chains.

They are often seasoned with cinnamon or other spices and can be a healthier option than regular fries.

Many sweet potato fries are also vegan-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant to be sure.

2. Baked Potato

If you’re looking for a filling and healthy side dish, a baked potato can be a great option.

Most fast food chains offer baked potatoes as a side, and they are often vegan-friendly if you skip the cheese and sour cream.

You can top your baked potato with vegetables, salsa, or other toppings to add flavor and nutrition.

3. Veggie Burger

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, a veggie burger can be a great option.

Many fast food chains now offer vegan-friendly burgers made from plant-based ingredients like soy or pea protein.

These burgers can be just as satisfying as their meat-based counterparts and are often lower in calories and fat.

FAQs

Are Wendy’s fries gluten-free?

Wendy’s fries are made from potatoes and are gluten-free. However, they are cooked in the same oil as other menu items that may contain gluten, such as chicken nuggets and onion rings. If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, you may want to avoid Wendy’s fries or ask the staff to cook them in a separate fryer.

Are Wendy’s fries vegetarian?

Yes, Wendy’s fries are vegetarian. None of the ingredients used in the fries come from animal sources.

Are Wendy’s fries kosher?

Wendy’s fries are not certified kosher. While the ingredients used in the fries are kosher, the fries are cooked in the same oil as non-kosher menu items, which makes them not kosher.

Are Wendy’s fries halal?

Wendy’s fries are not certified halal. While the ingredients used in the fries are halal, the fries are cooked in the same oil as non-halal menu items, which makes them not halal.

Can I customize my Wendy’s fries?

Yes, you can customize your Wendy’s fries by adding toppings like chili, cheese, or bacon. However, these toppings may not be vegan-friendly, so be sure to ask the staff about the ingredients before ordering.

Are Wendy’s fries fresh?

Wendy’s fries are made fresh to order, which means they are cooked when you place your order. This ensures that they are hot and crispy when you receive them.