Vegetarian Society Certification Marks Registered in the EU as Global Rollout Continues

The Vegetarian Society is pleased to announce its Vegetarian Approved certification mark and its Vegan Approved certification mark have been registered in the EU. This is part of an ongoing global rollout of the two certification marks, with further territories expected over the coming months. 

Ben Worth, Director of Development at the Vegetarian Society explained: “This announcement is the culmination of years of hard work. It all started in August 2023 when we approached selected clients to get their feedback on our decision to revamp the Vegetarian Approved and Vegan Approved logos. The feedback was positive, so we ploughed ahead, submitting UK and then worldwide registrations which are now being approved but these applications take time, years to come to fruition. In the meantime, we’ve worked with clients over the past three years to switch over to the new logos without avoiding expensive packaging re-runs and unnecessary wastage. 

“With regards to the design, it was important to us maintain consumers’ recognition of the new logo and the trust it represents; 75% of vegetarians and vegans actively look for our Vegetarian Society Approved logo on product packaging. Therefore, we decided to modernise the design rather than create a new one. Another important design consideration was for it to be flexible, to work on a variety of different packaging sizes. We think we’ve achieved this too.” 

In addition to the two modernised Vegetarian and Vegan certification schemes, the Vegetarian Society has also launched a third, the Plant-Based certification mark. This gives manufacturers the choice of which logo to displays on pack, with one set of checks and one price. 

“This solved the challenge brands face when deciding how to position their vegan products. If the target market is solely vegans, use our Vegan Approved certification mark. If the target market is broader, lead with our Plant-Based certification mark which resonates with that wider audience, then put the Vegan Approved certification mark on the back to reassure vegans its suitable for them”, added Ben. 

As demand for clear, trusted vegetarian, vegan and plant-based labelling continues to grow, the Vegetarian Society’s expanding certification portfolio gives brands a simple, credible way to reassure consumers and support confident choices at the point of purchase. With EU registration now secured and further international approvals on the horizon, the Society is strengthening the global visibility and value of its certification marks for both manufacturers and shoppers. 

To find out more about the Vegetarian Society’s Certification Scheme, visit vegsoc.org/trademarks.  

ENDS  
 
About the Vegetarian Society 

The Vegetarian Society is a charity formed in 1847. Together we are working towards a better life for all. A better life for people, the planet and for animals. We know small changes by many can make a huge difference. 

We work with communities, businesses and policymakers to create lasting change — from sharing recipes and running cookery classes to certifying vegetarian, vegan and plant-based products and campaigning for better food systems. Together, we champion good food to fuel the good fight. Find out more at vegsoc.org. For all press enquiries, please contact press@vegsoc.org.