They contain maltodextrin, which is a gelatin hybrid base. Any time I see the word gelatin, which is an animal product, in any form, I avoid it. Besides, these corn rice cakes have little nutrition. If you want rice cakes, the best ones are Lundberg Organic ones, as they are vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free. They obviously are not sweet, but you are better off using a nut butter w. raisins on them if you crave a sweet treat.