The VGN is a private certification scheme that establishes clear, scientifically and ethically grounded criteria under which a product can be classified as vegan.

The standard primarily applies to food and beverage products, such as plant-based products, olive oil, beverages, juices, and other products of plant origin produced in line with vegan principles.

Certification applies to specific products and services and the entire organization.

The VGN standard applies to:

• food industries (e.g. plant-based products, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, supplements),
• small and large production units,
• services requiring verified non-use of animal-derived ingredients (e.g. food service, catering, bakeries).

Many products are marketed as “plant-based”, yet in practice they may:

• contain animal-derived ingredients in small quantities,
• include additives or processing aids of animal origin,
• use ingredients derived through animal-based processes (e.g. lanolin in cosmetics),
• involve animal-derived technical inputs (e.g. filters, glues, emulsifiers),
• include non-visible processes (such as beverage refining using animal agents),
• use packaging materials containing casein-based adhesives or animal fats,
• or have been tested on animals.

VGN certification confirms that a product complies with strict and verified vegan criteria.

Credibility & Trust

• Strengthens consumer confidence through a clear and recognizable claim
• Prevents misleading labeling and ensures transparency in production

Enhanced Competitiveness

• Provides a strong advantage in markets that demand ethical and sustainable products

Market Expansion 

• Attracts vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians, and plant-based consumers

Alignment with Sustainability Standards

• Supports ESG strategies and responsible consumption trends

Commercial Added Value

• Enables the use of the VEGAN logo
• Strengthens branding and product positioning