Is Calpis vegan/vegetarian-friendly?

Is Calpis vegan?

No, the original Calpis is not vegan. It is a Japanese soft drink, also sold as Calpico overseas, and it is made from milk. The original is fermented from non-fat milk using lactobacilli and other microorganisms. Ingredient lists differ by product, flavor and country, so read the label of the bottle in your hand.

Is Calpis vegetarian?

Most vegetarians who eat dairy would consider it vegetarian, since it is a milk-based drink. Lacto-vegetarians usually accept milk products; vegans, people with a milk allergy and people avoiding dairy do not. We did not find a complete ingredient list for every product, so if you avoid other animal-derived additives, check the label for them.

Is there a vegan Calpis?

Asahi, the maker, announced a soymilk-based version called Green Calpis in 2020. It was expected to taste like the original, with a more refreshing aftertaste and less sweetness. We could not confirm its current availability in every country or an official ingredient list, so do not assume any specific bottle is vegan until you have read its label.

What about Calpis Water, Soda and concentrate?

Calpis is sold in several formats, including ready-to-drink bottles, carbonated versions and concentrate that you dilute. They are made from the same kind of base, so they are generally dairy-based unless the label says otherwise. Flavored versions can contain other ingredients, so check each one separately.

How to check a bottle

• Look for milk, milk solids or dry milk in the ingredient list.
• Look for a milk allergen statement.
• Look for a vegan certification or a soy base on the front of the pack.
• Check the sugar and calorie figures on the label if you are watching your intake.

This is general information, not medical or allergy advice. If you have a milk allergy, rely on the label and the manufacturer.