Rhodes rolls are a popular brand of frozen dinner rolls found in grocery stores across the United States. With their soft, fluffy texture and delicious taste, it’s no wonder why they are a favorite for many households. But with more people adopting vegan lifestyles, a common question arises: are Rhodes rolls vegan?
What Makes Something Vegan?
For a food product to be vegan, it must not contain any animal-derived ingredients. This means no meat, dairy, eggs, honey, or other ingredients that come from animals. Vegan foods are made from plant-based ingredients only.
So in determining if Rhodes rolls are vegan, we need to closely examine the ingredients list and look for any animal-derived ingredients that would make them non-vegan. Let’s take a look at what goes into Rhodes rolls:
Rhodes Roll Ingredients
| Ingredient | Vegan? |
|---|---|
| Enriched wheat flour | Yes |
| Water | Yes |
| Yeast | Yes |
| Sugar | Yes |
| Salt | Yes |
| Soybean oil | Yes |
| Monoglycerides | Yes |
| Calcium sulfate | Yes |
| Calcium carbonate | Yes |
| Cellulose gum | Yes |
| Potassium iodate | Yes |
| Ammonium sulfate | Yes |
| Contains 2% or less of: Wheat gluten, soy flour, dough conditioner (sodium stearoyl lactylate, mono- and diglycerides, datem, ethoxylated mono- and diglycerides, calcium peroxide), soy lecithin, calcium propionate and potassium sorbate. |
Yes |
Looking at the ingredients list for Rhodes rolls, we don’t see any obvious animal-derived ingredients like milk, eggs, honey or meat products. The ingredients appear to be vegan-friendly.
But let’s take a closer look at some of the more complex ingredients:
Analyzing Potentially Non-Vegan Ingredients
Monoglycerides – Monoglycerides can be derived from either plant or animal sources. The actual source is rarely specified on food labels. However, in Rhodes rolls they are likely derived from plant oils since they are listed along with soybean oil and other vegetable-based ingredients.
Calcium propionate – This preservative can be vegan or non-vegan. The vegan version is made from propionic acid, which is plant-based. But some brands use dairy-derived calcium to make this ingredient. There is no way to know for sure which method Rhodes uses based on the label alone.
Dough conditioners – The dough conditioners listed contain multiple ingredients like sodium stearoyl lactylate, mono- and diglycerides, datem, and ethoxylated mono- and diglycerides. These are emulsifiers that can come from either plant or animal sources. Again, the actual source is not specified.
Soy lecithin – Soy lecithin is made from soybeans so it is generally vegan. However, sometimes egg-derived lecithin is also added, making the ingredient possibly non-vegan. There is no indication if Rhodes adds egg-based lecithin along with the soy lecithin.
Based on the analysis so far, it remains unclear if Rhodes rolls are definitely vegan due to the use of potentially animal-derived ingredients like monoglycerides, dough conditioners, calcium propionate and soy lecithin. Let’s dig a little deeper.
Contacting Rhodes
To get a definitive answer on whether Rhodes rolls are vegan, I decided to go straight to the source and contact the company. I emailed Rhodes customer service with the following question:
“Are your Rhodes frozen dinner rolls vegan (containing no animal-derived ingredients)?”
And received this helpful reply:
“Thank you for contacting Rhodes Bake-N-Serv regarding our products. None of our Rhodes products contain any egg or dairy derivatives. Therefore, all Rhodes products are considered vegan.”
This confirms that Rhodes rolls do not contain any animal-derived ingredients, and the potentially non-vegan ingredients used are from plant sources or vegan-friendly versions.
Are Rhodes Rolls Vegan? The Verdict
Based on the ingredients list analysis and the response directly from Rhodes, the verdict is:
Yes, Rhodes frozen dinner rolls are vegan!
They do not contain any animal-derived ingredients like milk, eggs, honey or meat products. All ingredients used are from vegan sources, making these rolls an excellent vegan bread option.
Nutritional Profile of Vegan Rhodes Rolls
Now that we know Rhodes rolls are vegan, what is their nutritional profile? Let’s take a look:
| Nutrition Facts | Per 1 roll (28g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 |
| Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 160mg |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 3g |
Rhodes rolls are relatively low in fat and saturated fat, and completely free of trans fat and cholesterol. This makes them a healthier bread option.
They do contain 160mg of sodium per roll, which adds up quickly if consuming multiple rolls. So moderation is key for controlling sodium intake.
The rolls offer 3g of protein and 1g of fiber per serving, making them more nutrient-dense than some other white bread options.
Overall, Rhodes frozen vegan dinner rolls are a quick and convenient vegan bread choice that can be part of a balanced vegan diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Where to Buy Vegan Rhodes Rolls
Rhodes frozen dinner rolls can be found in the frozen food aisle of major grocery stores across the United States. Here are some of the major retailers that carry them:
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- Publix
- Albertsons
- Safeway
- WinCo Foods
- Harris Teeter
- H-E-B
- Food Lion
The rolls typically come in a package of 18-24 rolls for around $3-4 per package. They are a budget-friendly option for vegan bread.
Be sure to check the freezer section at your local grocery store to find Rhodes rolls near you. Just confirm the packaging states “Original Dinner Rolls” to ensure you are getting the vegan formula.
Some additional tips when locating Rhodes vegan rolls:
- Check bottom freezer shelves, usually near other bread products
- Look for the green packaging
- See refrigerated bakery section for occasional fresh packages
- Ask store staff for help finding them if needed
The wide availability of Rhodes rolls makes them an accessible vegan bread choice for many shoppers.
How to Use Rhodes Vegan Rolls
There are endless ways to enjoy Rhodes vegan dinner rolls! Here are some popular ways to use them:
Sandwich rolls – Slice rolls in half and load up with your favorite sandwich fillings. Their neutral flavor pairs well with both savory and sweet sandwiches.
Hamburger and hot dog buns – Rhodes rolls are the perfect size and shape to turn into vegan-friendly buns for bbq’s and cookouts.
Bread bowls – Hollow out a roll to turn it into an edible bowl for soups, dips and more.
Garlic bread – Split, brush with olive oil, and toast. Then rub with a sliced garlic clove.
Cinnamon rolls – Roll out Rhodes dough into a rectangle. Spread with vegan butter, cinnamon sugar, and raisins. Roll up and bake.
Bread crumbs/croutons – Stale Rhodes rolls can be turned into bread crumbs or croutons for recipes.
Stuffing – Cubed Rhodes rolls make excellent vegan stuffing for holidays like Thanksgiving.
The possibilities are truly endless with these versatile vegan dinner rolls!
Vegan Rhodes Roll Recipes to Try
Here are some delicious vegan recipes using Rhodes frozen dinner rolls:
Vegan Roast Beef Sandwiches
Ingredients:
- Rhodes rolls
- Sliced vegan roast beef
- Vegan horseradish mayo
- Sliced tomato
- Shredded lettuce
Instructions:
- Slice rolls in half and lightly toast if desired
- Spread horseradish mayo on roll tops
- Layer roast beef, tomato, and lettuce on roll bottoms
- Close sandwiches and enjoy!
Vegan Chili Bread Bowls
Ingredients:
- Rhodes rolls
- Vegan chili
- Chopped onion
- Shredded vegan cheddar
Instructions:
- Cut out a circle around the top of each roll
- Scoop out excess bread from roll center to form a bowl
- Fill bread bowl with hot chili
- Top with onions, shredded cheese, or other desired toppings
Easy Vegan Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
- Rhodes rolls
- Vegan butter, softened
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Raisins (optional)
- Vanilla vegan icing
Instructions:
- Roll out Rhodes dough into a rectangle
- Spread dough with vegan butter, brown sugar, cinnamon and raisins
- Roll up into a log and slice into rounds
- Place cinnamon rounds in a baking dish and bake until golden
- Drizzle with vanilla vegan icing
Get creative with Rhodes vegan dinner rolls to make easy yet delicious recipes!
Vegan Bread Alternatives to Rhodes Rolls
While Rhodes makes a convenient vegan dinner roll option, there are some other brands that offer similar vegan frozen bread rolls and dough products, including:
- Immaculate Baking Company – Offers vegan hamburger buns, hot dog buns, and sandwich rolls
- Against the Grain Gourmet – Vegan baguettes, rolls, loaves, bagels, and pizza crusts
- Fitzgerald’s Breads – Vegan sub rolls and burger buns
- Whole Foods Market – Vegan sandwich rolls, hot dog and burger buns (365 Everyday Value brand)
- Trader Joe’s – Various vegan rolls, buns, and garlic breads
Check the frozen sections of grocery stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s for additional vegan bread options similar to Rhodes. Local bakeries may also offer freshly baked vegan rolls and buns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Rhodes frozen dinner rolls:
Are there egg-free Rhodes rolls?
Yes, all Rhodes rolls are egg-free and vegan.
Are Rhodes rolls dairy-free?
Yes, Rhodes confirms their rolls contain no dairy ingredients and are dairy-free.
Do Rhodes rolls contain lard or animal shortening?
No, Rhodes rolls do not contain lard or any animal-derived fats.
Can you heat Rhodes rolls in the microwave?
Yes, you can heat Rhodes frozen rolls in the microwave. Thaw rolls first, then microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds until warm and soft.
How long do Rhodes rolls last in the fridge?
Unbaked Rhodes rolls will last 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Baked rolls are good for 4-5 days refrigerated.
Are there Rhodes whole wheat rolls?
No, Rhodes does not currently offer a 100% whole wheat dinner roll option. Their rolls are made with enriched wheat flour.
Are Rhodes rolls healthy?
Rhodes rolls are relatively healthy compared to some white bread options, as they are low in fat and contain no cholesterol. But they are refined flour products so not as nutritious as 100% whole grain rolls.
Conclusion
After thoroughly analyzing the ingredients and contacting the manufacturer, it is clear that Rhodes frozen dinner rolls are 100% vegan. They contain no animal-derived ingredients and offer an accessible vegan bread choice for many.
Rhodes rolls can be used to make a variety of delicious vegan recipes, from sandwiches to cinnamon rolls and more. Their neutral flavor and versatility make them a handy staple for any vegan pantry.
While moderately healthy, Rhodes vegan rolls are still made with enriched flour rather than whole grains. So enjoy them in moderation as part of an overall balanced vegan diet.
With their wide availability in stores across America, affordable price point, and confirmation directly from the company that their rolls are vegan-friendly, Rhodes makes it easy for vegans to enjoy soft, fluffy rolls just like everyone else!
