Labelling on foods and goods can be unclear and inaccurate which can prevent you making an informed purchased. This is especially frustrating if you are trying to purchase ethically sound products.
It is important to look for certified labelling on products to be sure that you are not being mislead by marketers and the product you wish to buy is truly vegan. Also if you find a product that is accidentaly vegan, then why not let the manufacturer know that they can get it labelled accordingly.
Watch out for the following on labels:
- Natural ingredients – this doesn’t then mean the products are cruelty free
- Products not tested on animals – this then may not include the products ingredients
If in any doubt about the products ask the retailer or contact the manuafacturer and ask whether there was animal testing of the product or on the ingredients, if the campany has banned animal testing or works to a fixed cut off date and lastly if they are researching ways of testing products in alternative ways to animal testing. Although ignorance maybe bliss it will not stop cruelty to animals. By asking these question we can use our consumer power and create change.
Useful sites:
- International vegan labels – vegan labels from all over the world
- Eco-friendly labels – environmentally friendly labels
Labels to look out for:
Please note the Vegan Society Trademark, does allow the use of ‘May contain dairy/eggs/fish’ on Vegan Trademarked products. A term such as ‘may contain’ is used by manufacturers where the inclusion, in tiny or significant amounts cannot be ruled out.
