Need Help? We’ve Got the Info

Chocolate Questions

How similar is it to “real” chocolate?

It is real chocolate. We use 70% fair-trade dark chocolate, made without dairy, soy, nuts, gluten, or preservatives. What makes us different from traditional chocolate is simply what we leave out. Unlike many vegan or allergen-free chocolates, ours isn’t chalky or flavorless. Every recipe is chef-crafted to deliver a smooth texture and rich flavor without compromise. Many customers share, “I can’t believe it’s vegan!”

Why does your chocolates cost more than other chocolates?

Sweet Vegan is a premium chocolate experience, not just a box of chocolate. Every recipe is chef-crafted and handmade in small batches in New York City using carefully selected, high-quality plant-based ingredients. Making our chocolates without dairy, soy, nuts, gluten, or preservatives requires specialized ingredients, thoughtful sourcing, and careful preparation.

The price also reflects the full experience: rich flavors, a smooth and indulgent texture, beautiful handcrafted packaging, and the confidence of giving a thoughtful chocolate gift that more people can enjoy. Whether you’re buying for yourself or someone special, we want opening every Sweet Vegan box to feel like a true occasion.

How does vegan chocolate differ from other chocolate?

Vegan chocolate contains no animal products, while most chocolate contains dairy. We feel that eliminating these elements gives our rich chocolate more room to shine. What also sets us apart is the other ingredients we use — each truffle is made from fresh, organic ingredients without any fillers, preservatives, or artificial additives.

Will you always be an e-commerce business?

Yes. Sweet Vegan Chocolates will continue to offer our handcrafted vegan and allergen-friendly chocolates through our online store. You can also find select products at retailers throughout New York City — visit our Find Us page for current locations. As Sweet Vegan grows, we plan to expand into additional retail locations while keeping online ordering convenient and accessible.

Where are your vegan chocolate truffles made? Are the facilities allergen-free?

Our chocolates are made without dairy, nuts, soy, and gluten— but they are produced in a shared commercial kitchen where other products containing these allergens are also made, so cross-contact is possible. We share a space at Eterra Kitchen in New York City, which provides shared commercial kitchen space for startups and food entrepreneurs. If you have a severe food allergy, please review the product information and contact us before ordering.

Will you ever add certain allergens?

We are committed to making chocolate without dairy, nuts, soy, and gluten, so it’s suitable for people with food allergies, dietary needs, and vegan lifestyles. If we ever introduce products with allergens, we will be fully transparent and clearly update all product information across our website, packaging, and communications. Transparency and customer trust will always be our top priorities.

Are your chocolates certified gluten-free, kosher, or organic?

Sweet Vegan chocolates are handcrafted with carefully selected, plant-based ingredients, and our recipes do not intentionally include dairy, nuts, soy, or gluten-containing ingredients. However, our chocolates are not currently certified gluten-free, kosher, organic, or allergen-free, and they are produced in a shared commercial kitchen where other brands may handle allergens, so cross-contact is possible. Customers with severe food allergies, celiac disease, or specific dietary requirements should review the product information/ingredients and contact us before ordering.

How long do I have to spend reading the labels?

Not long — we make choosing our allergen-friendly chocolate as simple as possible. Our labels feature clear, easy-to-read ingredients without confusing names or unnecessary preservatives. Sweet Vegan chocolates are made without dairy, soy, nuts, and gluten, so you can spend less time studying the label and more time enjoying your chocolate.

How should I store my chocolates, and how long do they last?

Store your chocolates in a cool, dry place between 60°F and 70°F (16°C–21°C), away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity, in the original box or another airtight container. Chocolate naturally absorbs surrounding odors, so avoid storing it near strong-smelling foods such as onions, garlic, coffee, or spices.

Because our chocolate is handcrafted in small batches with premium organic ingredients and no artificial preservatives, freshness windows vary by product:

  • Dreamy Bite Truffles are best enjoyed within 4–6 weeks of receiving your order, because they contain fresh handcrafted fillings.

  • Solid chocolate bars and other solid chocolate products maintain their quality for approximately 6–12 months when stored properly.

Should Sweet Vegan chocolate be refrigerated?

In most homes, no — chocolate is best enjoyed at room temperature, where its texture and flavor are at their peak. If your home stays warmer than 75°F (24°C) for extended periods, you may refrigerate your chocolate in an airtight container. Before opening it, allow the unopened container to return to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can cause chocolate bloom — a harmless white coating that may affect appearance but not the quality or safety.

Can Sweet Vegan chocolate be frozen?

Yes, our chocolate freezes well for longer-term storage. Place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator, then let it reach room temperature before opening. Opening the container only after it has warmed helps preserve the chocolate’s smooth texture and rich flavor.

Is this chocolate good for corporate gifting and gift giving?

Yes — Sweet Vegan boxes make a thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, thank-yous, corporate clients, hosts, or anyone special. Our handcrafted chocolates are allergy-friendly and free from dairy, nuts, soy, and gluten, so you can share them with confidence. A beautifully crafted box shows your thoughtfulness and care, leaving a lasting impression and making you an exceptional gift giver.

Do you offer gift messages, wrapping, or shipping directly to a recipient?

Yes. Sweet Vegan offers handwritten gift messages that can be added on the product page before checkout. Our vegan chocolate gifts arrive in beautifully presented, gift-ready packaging, so additional gift wrapping isn’t needed. We also offer direct-to-recipient shipping — simply enter the recipient’s address as the shipping address at checkout.

Who makes Sweet Vegan Chocolates?

We’re a small team of dedicated professionals, headed up by Chef Andrea Young, the mind behind Sweet Vegan. We personally ensure that every truffle meets our high standards of quality and authenticity.

How much sugar or how many calories are in each piece?

Sugar and calories per piece vary by flavor. You can find nutrition facts for our chocolates on our Flavors page or in the product images on each product page. If you have questions about a specific flavor, ingredient, or dietary need, please contact us.

What are the health benefits of your chocolates?

Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to improved brain function, lower blood pressure, a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, and a positive effect on the skin. But we think the biggest benefit is the impact on your mind — eating chocolate makes people happy, which in the long run has to be good for you.

*Disclaimer: The nutritional claims and information on this site are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Are your chocolates sold in stores?

Yes. In New York City, you can pick up a box of Sweet Vegan at Westerly Natural Market at 911 8th Avenue, NYC and Dépanneur, Brooklyn. Traveling through Long Island? Grab some sweet treats at Taste New York, LIE Dix Hills exit 42. You can also browse our online store, and we’ll be glad to ship to you.

Who typically buys your chocolates? Are they just for vegans and people with food allergies?

Sweet Vegan is for everyone. Whether you’re a doctor, active mom (what mom isn’t?), athlete, or musician, we’re sure you can make room for a sweet treat — you’re worth it. Indulgence without Compromise.

What other truffle flavors are you developing?

We’re always experimenting — that’s how we got to 18 varieties. If there’s something you’d like to see, let us know! Maybe you’d like a taste of lavender, Earl Grey tea, or a caramel filling — fill out this form and have your say in the next bite.

Is vegan chocolate dairy-free?

Yes. Vegan chocolate is completely free from dairy and any other animal-derived ingredients.

Are all dark chocolates vegan?

No. Some dark chocolates contain milk or other animal-derived ingredients, so always read the label to ensure it’s suitable for a vegan diet.

Are there any preservatives in vegan chocolate?

Sweet Vegan’s chocolate is preservative-free. Truly vegan chocolates are typically free from preservatives, as they focus on natural ingredients and avoid additives.

Is vegan chocolate healthy?

Vegan chocolate can be a healthier option than traditional chocolate, especially when it contains fewer processed ingredients and less sugar.

Are there health benefits to eating dark chocolate?

Yes, in moderation. Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is rich in antioxidants, which help protect against oxidative stress and free radicals. Studies suggest positive effects on heart health, cognitive function, mood, migraines, and skin protection, plus minor benefits for blood sugar regulation. For the most benefit, choose high-quality dark chocolate with limited added sugar and enjoy it in moderation.

Orders, Shipping & Delivery

When will my order be shipped?

Orders are typically processed within 1–2 business days. We ship Monday through Wednesday to ensure your chocolates arrive fresh and in perfect condition. If you need expedited shipping, please contact us!

How long will it take to receive my order?

After processing (1–2 business days), USPS Priority Mail usually takes 2–5 business days to arrive. Delivery times can occasionally vary depending on the carrier or time of year, such as holidays.

What shipping options do you offer?

Standard Shipping (Domestic, excluding Hawaii and Alaska):

  • USPS Priority Mail: 2–5 business days ¹
  • USPS Priority Express: next-day to 2 days ²
  • FedEx by request; contact us

Delivery dates are not guaranteed.

¹ USPS Priority Mail does not deliver on Sundays.
² Place your order before 11 AM EST

How can I track my order?

You’ll receive an email from Sweet Vegan with your USPS tracking number a couple of days after your order is confirmed. If it doesn’t show up in your inbox, please check your spam folder, and don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re happy to help!

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping costs vary depending on your location. For warmer climates, there may be an additional charge for special packaging and cooling materials to protect your chocolates from the heat and ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

Do you provide a discount for large orders, and at what quantity?

Yes — contact us for more details.

Do you handle custom orders? (weddings, holidays, corporate gifts, etc.)

You bet we do. Call us biased, but we couldn’t think of a better gift than a box of Sweet Vegan. We’d be more than happy to help you create something custom and unique for any special occasion. Contact us and let’s make it happen!

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. For international orders, customs fees and import duties may apply depending on the destination country’s regulations. These fees are the responsibility of the customer; please check with your local customs office for details. Contact Sweet Vegan directly for more international shipping information.

What is your Warm Weather Shipping Policy?

Due to high temperatures in certain regions, orders shipped to warm climates — including Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Puerto Rico, we recommend selecting expedited shipping. USPS does not guarantee arrival on the quoted delivery date. We take extra care in packaging your orders, but we are not responsible for melting or damage that may occur during shipping and transit.

Do your chocolates melt in shipping? What if they arrive melted?

We take precautions when shipping chocolate in hot weather, including monitoring temperatures, using ice packs, and contacting you if expedited shipping is recommended. If your chocolates arrive melted or heat-damaged, please contact us promptly with photos of the product and packaging. Requests for a replacement or refund are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Returns, Refunds & Order Issues

Can I return or exchange my order?

Because our chocolates are perishable, we’re unable to accept returns or exchanges. If you have any concerns, please contact us within 48 hours and we’ll do everything we can to assist you.

Can I change or cancel my order after it’s been placed?

If you need to make changes, please contact us as soon as possible and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request. Once your package has shipped, we’re unable to modify the order or add items. Please note that orders cannot be canceled after payment has been processed.

Can I get a refund if I didn’t like the product?

Because our chocolates are perishable, we can’t offer refunds based on taste preferences. However, if something’s wrong with your order, contact us right away and we’ll work to make things right.

What happens if my package is lost or stolen?

We understand how frustrating this is. Unfortunately, we’re not responsible for lost or stolen packages after they’ve been shipped. Double-check your shipping info to avoid this, but if something goes wrong, we’re here to help with next steps.

What do I do if my order is missing items?

If anything is missing, please reach out within 48 hours with your order details and we’ll make sure everything is sorted out quickly.

How can I contact Sweet Vegan if I have an issue with my order?

If you need assistance, we’re always here for you! You can reach us by email at info@sweetvegan.nyc or by phone at 917-334-3636. We’ll take care of it right away.

Got more questions? Reach out to us here!