logo

Exhibiting at International Food & Drink Event (IFE) 2025

911
ExCeL London
17 Mar - 19 Mar, 2025

Product Offerings

Product Categories:

Confectionery

Products:

Classic Vanilla Marshmallows: Regular and Mini sizes

Seasonal Flavored Marshmallows: Pumpkin Spice, Maple, Peppermint

Marshmallow Cream: Plant-based creamy spread

Campers Jumbo Marshmallows: Large-sized marshmallows for roasting

Dandies Marshmallows is a pioneering American vegan confectionery brand dedicated to crafting plant-based, gelatin-free marshmallows that offer all the taste and texture of traditional marshmallows without any animal-derived ingredients. Owned by Chicago Vegan Foods, the brand is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and has become a household name among consumers seeking ethical, allergen-friendly, and delicious alternatives to conventional sweets.

Company Overview

Launched in the early 2000s, Dandies was born from a mission to offer a clean, compassionate version of one of America’s most beloved treats—marshmallows. As the first company to produce a 100% vegan marshmallow commercially in the U.S., Dandies has led the market segment with innovation, transparency, and flavor. Its products are now available across the United States and in several international markets, catering to a diverse audience of vegans, vegetarians, allergy-sensitive consumers, and food lovers alike.

Core Product Offerings

Dandies produces a broad selection of plant-based marshmallow products made without gelatin, artificial flavors, or high-fructose corn syrup. All products are Non-GMO Project Verified, Kosher, and free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and gluten.

Key Products

  • Classic Vanilla Marshmallows: Available in regular and mini sizes
  • Flavored Seasonal Marshmallows:
    • Pumpkin Spice (Fall)
    • Maple (Fall/Winter)
    • Peppermint (Winter Holiday)
  • Campers Jumbo Marshmallows: Ideal for roasting and s’mores
  • Marshmallow Cream: A spreadable, creamy plant-based version ideal for desserts and baking

These products are distributed through natural grocery chains (Whole Foods, Sprouts), conventional retailers (Target, Kroger), and online channels including Amazon and Thrive Market.

Unique Selling Proposition

Dandies differentiates itself with:

  • 100% Plant-Based Formulation: No gelatin or animal-derived ingredients
  • Top-8 Allergen-Free: Safe for a wide range of consumers with food sensitivities
  • Clean Label: Free from corn syrup, artificial flavors, and preservatives
  • Ethical Production: Manufactured in a dedicated vegan facility with strict food safety protocols

As a result, Dandies has developed a loyal following among vegan families, health-conscious shoppers, and ethical consumers who seek inclusive and sustainable sweets.

Market Reach and Retail Footprint

Dandies products are available in over 5,000 retail locations across North America, including:

  • Whole Foods Market
  • Sprouts Farmers Market
  • Target
  • Natural Grocers
  • Thrive Market
  • Amazon.com

Additionally, the brand has expanded its export operations to Canada, UK, and Australia, targeting international markets where vegan product demand is on the rise.

Certifications and Compliance

Dandies products are compliant with multiple health and ethical standards, including:

  • Certified Vegan
  • Non-GMO Project Verified
  • Kosher Parve
  • Gluten-Free
  • Corn Syrup-Free

Their manufacturing facilities operate under FDA and GFSI-compliant food safety standards, with full allergen control and transparency protocols in place.

Financial and Shipment Insights

While Dandies’ financials are not disclosed separately from Chicago Vegan Foods, the company has seen double-digit annual growth rates in the past 5 years, driven by rising demand for plant-based and allergen-free confections.

Based on market analysis and import-export data platforms, Dandies is estimated to ship over 1 million units annually, with an average product value ranging from USD $3.99 to $6.99. Its wholesale operations extend to foodservice and private-label clients as well.

Target Demographic

Dandies caters to a diverse and growing audience, including:

  • Vegan and Vegetarian Consumers
  • Parents of Allergen-Sensitive Children
  • Health-Conscious Millennials and Gen Z
  • Ethical Lifestyle Advocates
  • Bakers and Foodservice Professionals

Social media engagement and customer reviews show strong brand loyalty, especially among families and influencers promoting clean-eating and plant-based diets.

Capabilities and Infrastructure

  • Dedicated Vegan Production Facility in Chicago
  • Robust national distribution partnerships with UNFI, KeHE, and other wholesalers
  • Scalable manufacturing operations supporting seasonal and limited edition flavors
  • Active investment in R&D and sustainable packaging initiatives

Community Engagement and Reputation

Dandies is widely regarded as a category leader in the plant-based sweets segment. The brand frequently engages in:

  • Vegan and eco-conscious festivals and events
  • Collaborations with plant-based bakers and chefs
  • School-safe product campaigns focused on allergen-friendly lunchbox options

Customer reviews across platforms like Amazon and Thrive Market consistently rate Dandies 4.7 stars or higher, praising its taste, texture, and commitment to ethical sourcing.

Key Achievements

  • First U.S. company to produce and market vegan marshmallows
  • Listed as a Top 10 Vegan Snack Brand by major food blogs and magazines including VegNews and PETA
  • Ongoing expansion into international retail markets
  • Successful launch of seasonal flavor SKUs, contributing to strong Q4 sales growth
  • Recognized by Whole Foods Market for excellence in product innovation and clean-label leadership

Dandies Marshmallows continues to redefine what confectionery can look like in a sustainable, inclusive, and health-conscious future. With an unwavering commitment to ethical manufacturing and product innovation, the brand is well-positioned for continued growth in the global plant-based market.