Which Toothpastes Contain Pork? The Truth About Animal Ingredients

When browsing the toothpaste aisle, most people don’t think twice about reading ingredient labels. We expect our toothpaste to clean teeth, freshen breath, and prevent cavities without worrying about what’s actually in the tube. However for those avoiding pork and other animal products for religious ethical, or health reasons, it’s important to know which toothpastes contain questionable ingredients.

In this article, we’ll uncover which popular toothpaste brands contain pork-derived ingredients like glycerin and gelatin. We’ll also highlight pork-free toothpaste options so you can make an informed decision about the products you use.

The Use of Pork in Toothpaste

Toothpaste requires the use of humectants and emulsifiers to achieve the desired texture and prevent drying out. The humectant glycerin and emulsifier gelatin can both be derived from animal sources like pork Here’s a bit more about their origins

• Glycerin – This viscous liquid is excellent at retaining moisture. While vegetable oils can be used to produce glycerin, animal fats like pork provide an inexpensive source. Glycerin from pork fat gives toothpaste a smooth, non-gritty texture.

• Gelatin – Derived from collagen in animal skin and bones, gelatin acts as a stabilizer and thickener in some toothpastes. The bones and skins of pigs are a common commercial source.

In addition to glycerin and gelatin, natural flavorings in toothpastes may come from pork or other animal sources. Without detailed labeling, it’s impossible to know their true origins.

Toothpaste Brands Containing Pork

Here are some popular toothpaste brands that contain pork-derived ingredients:

• Crest – Crest Pro-Health toothpaste contains glycerin from pork. Other Crest varieties are pork-free.

• Sensodyne – Sensodyne Rapid Relief toothpaste includes stearic acid from pork sources. Other Sensodyne pastes do not.

• Aquafresh – Some Aquafresh toothpastes contain pork-based gelatin.

• Arm & Hammer – Most Arm & Hammer pastes list glycerin without specifying the source. Some likely come from pork.

• Colgate – In the past, Colgate contained pork-derived ingredients. However, current formulas are vegetable-based, not animal-derived.

Again, it’s essential to check labels and contact manufacturers to confirm if animal products are used in a particular toothpaste variety. Assumptions cannot be made about entire brands.

Toothpastes Certified Pork-Free

Thankfully, there are a growing number of toothpaste brands that are transparent about using only vegan, pork-free ingredients. Here are some great options to consider:

• Tom’s of Maine – All Tom’s toothpastes are vegetarian and pork-free. They use glycerin from non-animal sources like vegetables.

• Hello – No pork or animal-derived ingredients are used in Hello fluoride and non-fluoride pastes.

• SprinJene – This brand uses plant-based glycerin and is certified pork-free. They also avoid harsh detergents.

• Desert Essence – Their toothpastes use sustainable palm oil and coconut oil in place of pork-based glycerin.

• Jason – Jason toothpastes rely on vegetarian and vegan ingredients like seaweed, tea tree oil, and plant extracts.

• Boka – Boka is a zero waste brand that avoids animal ingredients. Their mint toothpaste uses coconut oil.

Along with verifying pork-free status, reading reviews can help determine toothpastes’ effectiveness. But rest assured that skipping pork does not require sacrificing clean teeth.

##Pork-Free Toothpaste and Oral Care Tips

Switching to a pork-free toothpaste is a great first step for excluding pig-based ingredients from your oral care routine. Here are some additional tips:

• Look for vegan dental floss instead of traditional silk floss.
• Opt for nylon or pig-free natural bristle toothbrushes.
• Skip mouthwashes with animal glycerin and use homemade versions.
• Research any whitening gels or strips for animal ingredients.
• For dry mouth, use vegan oral moisturizing sprays and gels.
• Drink plenty of water and limit sugary drinks that harm teeth.
• Eat a healthy whole food diet with nuts, vegetables, greens, and lean proteins.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and tobacco use that may cause oral cancer.

With mindful product selection and healthy lifestyle habits, you can achieve excellent dental health without compromising ethics or beliefs.