Valentine’s Day is all about love, and if you’re a vegan — or shopping for someone who is — you don’t have to miss out on indulging in sweet treats. Many traditional candies contain dairy, gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients, but plenty of plant-based options are just as delicious. Plus, they’re usually better for the planet and your body. 

How Does Candy Impact the Environment?

Candy can significantly impact the environment due to its ingredients and production processes. Many mainstream chocolates and gummy candies rely on dairy, gelatin and palm oil — each of which comes with sustainability concerns. 

Dairy production contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and high water usage, while gelatin supports industrial livestock farming. Additionally, palm oil, commonly found in chocolate and caramel candies, is a leading cause of deforestation and habitat destruction, particularly for endangered species. On top of that, excessive plastic packaging from individually wrapped sweets adds to landfill waste and ocean pollution. 

Vegan candy can be a more sustainable choice, especially when brands prioritize ethical sourcing and eco-friendly packaging. For instance, plant-based chocolates often use oat, almond or coconut milk instead of dairy, reducing carbon emissions and water use.

Many vegan gummy candies swap gelatin for pectin — a fruit-derived alternative — cutting out the need for industrial animal farming. Some brands also commit to using fair-trade cocoa and biodegradable packaging, further lowering their environmental impact. While not all vegan candy is inherently sustainable, choosing plant-based options from responsible brands can be a sweeter choice for the planet. 

How Does Candy Impact Your Health?

Traditional candy, especially those high in refined sugars and artificial additives, can affect your health. One of the biggest concerns is tooth decay, as sugar feeds harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to cavities and gum disease. In fact, one-quarter of adults over 65 have no natural teeth left, and excessive sugar consumption is one of the causes. 

Beyond dental health, frequent consumption of sugary, processed candy is linked to issues like insulin resistance and increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, candy often contains artificial colors and preservatives, which may contribute to hyperactivity in children. 

Vegan candy can be a slightly better alternative, especially when it’s made from natural ingredients and less refined sugar. Some plant-based candies use organic fruit juices or natural sweeteners, like monk fruit and stevia, which don’t cause the same blood sugar spikes as regular sugar. There are also sugar-free vegan candies, which can be a great option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake and protect their teeth. 

10 Plant-Based Valentine’s Day Candy

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to enjoy some sweet treats and, if you’re looking for plant-based options, there are plenty of delicious choices. From decadent vegan chocolates to fruity gummies, here are 10 plant-based candies to indulge in. 

1. Sjaak’s Organic Chocolate Hearts

Sjaak’s offers a variety of heart-shaped vegan chocolates in flavors like milk chocolate, white chocolate and dark chocolate cherry. All of its products are certified vegan, organic, gluten-free, kosher and non-GMO. These beautifully wrapped treats are perfect for gifting or enjoying with your Valentine. 

2. Smarties Love Hearts

Smarties Love Hearts are a classic Valentine’s Day candy that happens to be vegan. This treat is fizzy, fruit-flavored and imprinted with cute, romantic messages like “Be Mine” and “Hug Me”. They’re great for sharing with friends, adding to V-Day gift bags or treating yourself to some nostalgic sweetness. 

3. No Whey! Foods Vegan Truffle Box

This elegant truffle assortment includes creamy, chocolatey flavors like raspberry, coffee, salted caramel and milk fudge. It’s 100% vegan, kosher, gluten-free and allergy-friendly, making it a fantastic gift for anyone in your life. 

4. Ring Pops

Ring pops are another accidentally vegan treat. These classic, oversized candy rings are free from animal-derived ingredients like gelatin or dairy, making them a great plant-based option. They come in various fruity flavors — cherry, strawberry and watermelon are ideal for Valentine’s Day. Plus, their playful design makes them a cute and quirky candy to gift your sweetheart. 

5. Hu Dark Chocolate Bars

Hu’s bars are dairy-free, soy-free and made with organic ingredients, making them ideal for those who love simple, high-quality chocolate. The Cashew Butter Vanilla Bean bar is especially indulgent. 

6. YumEarth Valentine’s Day Gummy Hearts

These adorable heart-shaped gummies are made with organic fruit juice and no artificial dyes, making them a fun and natural treat for the holiday. They’re allergy-friendly and coated with organic sugar, with exciting flavors like peach and cherry. These gummy hearts are perfect for kids’ lunchboxes or an on-the-go snack. 

7. Raaka’s Pink Sea Salt Dark Chocolate

With its delicate pink sea salt finish, this unroasted dark chocolate is smooth, rich and a little bit fancy — just like your Valentine deserves. Raaka is one of the companies committed to using only ethically grown cocoa and fair labor practices, making it worth the purchase. 

8. Trader Joe’s Gummy X’s and O’s

These adorable gummies come in the shape of X’s and O’s (for hugs and kisses) and contain natural fruit juice flavoring. They have a chewy, fruity texture without any gelatin, making them an excellent plant-based Valentine’s treat. 

9. Justin’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

These are a classic chocolate and peanut butter pairing, but without the dairy. They are a must-have for any chocolate, or peanut butter, lover. 

10. SmartSweets Vegan Fish

A plant-based twist on the classic Swedish Fish, these fruity, chewy candies contain natural flavors and are low in sugar. Plus, SmartSweets has released a spicy cinnamon flavor, perfect for Valentine’s Day. 

Sweeten Your Valentine’s Day the Plant-Based Way

You don’t have to sacrifice sweetness for a plant-based lifestyle this Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re buying for yourself or a loved one, these vegan candies will make the day extra special.