Vegetarian Society unveils new trademarks

These trademarks are symbols seen on thousands of products in shops all over the UK, EU, USA and many other countries.  They are recognised as a trusted symbol for consumers seeking vegetarian and vegan products.

For a food manufacturer, to use the Vegetarian Society Approved trademark there is a strict process which involves its experts checking all ingredients and production methods. Only products that meet its strict criteria are allowed to display these trademarks.

The vegetarian trademark has been in use since 1969, and the vegan trademark was registered in 2017. The refreshed design brings both trademarks into line with the rebrand of the Vegetarian Society last year, the charity said. 

Vanessa Brown, head of trademarks at the Vegetarian Society, said: "Our refreshed trademark designs are registered as UK trademarks. Over the next few months, this registration will also extend to the EU, USA, India, China, New Zealand, Australia, and Norway, with other countries to follow in the future.” ​ ​

She added: “We’re in the process of working with new and existing clients to update their packaging with the refreshed designs and delighted to see some customers already using them."​

The refreshed trademarks can already be seen in supermarkets on products such as Quorn’s Cheesy Nacho Nuggs and on digital display boards at McDonalds restaurants. 

The Vegetarian Society is a charity that has been in existence for over 175 years, which supports the vegetarian and vegan movement. It works through education and engagement programmes to campaigning, policy work and product accreditation. 

Meanwhile, EU member states are unable to stop food manufacturers from labelling vegetarian foods​ with ‘meaty’ names, according to a new ruling from the European Court of Justice (ECJ).

Manufacturers can use the terms sausage, steak and burger to describe vegetarian products provided that a country has not established a specific legal term for a vegetarian protein-based food.