The Vegan Society

The Vegan Society is the world’s first and oldest vegan organization, founded in the United Kingdom in 1944. It is a registered charitable organization that focuses on education and advocacy for veganism and plant-based living, aiming to benefit humans, non-human animals, and the environment. The Society coined the term ‘vegan’ and has since been a leader in promoting veganism globally. Their lobbying efforts at the EU level focus on advocating for plant-based and vegan-friendly policy solutions. They engage with policymakers to promote reduced exploitation of animals and environmental sustainability through legislative and regulatory initiatives.

Besides direct lobbying, The Vegan Society undertakes research, provides media commentary, supports vegans, and advises professionals—such as doctors, teachers, and chefs—on offering vegan-friendly services. They also operate the Vegan Trademark, a certification system encouraging businesses to develop and clearly label vegan products, helping consumers identify vegan options reliably. Through this holistic approach, The Vegan Society seeks to make vegan living accessible, mainstream, and recognized within laws and consumer markets across the EU.

Their lobbying aligns with advancing sustainable food systems, animal welfare laws, transparent labeling, and education policies consistent with vegan principles. The Society’s activities represent a blend of grassroots advocacy, expert consultation, public engagement, and formal dialogue with EU institutions.

Registered as a charity and interest representative influencing EU policies on veganism and plant-based solutions.
Activities include policy lobbying, research dissemination, public education, and product certification through the Vegan Trademark.
Original headquarters: United Kingdom.

No related lobbyists found.

Food and agriculture policy
Animal welfare and protection
Consumer product labeling and certification
Environmental sustainability and climate policy
Public health and nutrition education

The Vegan Society collaborates and networks with:

Other vegan and vegetarian advocacy groups (e.g., Vegetarian Society)
Food safety and consumer advocacy organizations
Environmental NGOs focused on sustainable food systems
European policymaking bodies and committees on food, agriculture, and health
Businesses and manufacturers endorsing the Vegan Trademark

Precise annual spending on EU lobbying since registration is not publicly detailed in available sources. Charitable funding typically supports a variety of activities including advocacy, research, public campaigns, and administrative costs related to lobbying and certification services.

The Vegan Society interacts primarily with:

European Commission (Directorates related to agriculture, health, environment, and consumer affairs)
European Parliament Committees on Environment, Public Health, Food Safety, and Agriculture
Council of the European Union working groups on food and sustainability policies

Specific individual meeting records with EU institutions since registration are not publicly available. Generally, meetings include: consultations with EU policymakers, participation in stakeholder forums and public consultations, and engagement events with Commissioners and MEPs on topics relevant to veganism and sustainable diets.