The Vegetarian Society has announced a significant milestone in plant-based accreditation, with Lidl becoming the first major retailer to certify its products under the new Plant-Based Trademark. The certification applies to Lidl’s popular Vemondo Plant! range, which features plant-based ingredients, vegetable-based options, and ready meals. 

The Plant-Based Trademark: A Gold Standard 

Introduced by the Vegetarian Society in late 2024, the Plant-Based Trademark is designed to set a new benchmark for plant-based product certification. Unlike other labels, it goes beyond the proposed ISO definition by ensuring products meet stringent criteria, offering both manufacturers and customers the reassurance they seek. 

To earn the Plant-Based Trademark, products must: 

• Contain no animal ingredients. 

• Showcase a key plant-based characteristic. 

This rigorous standard was developed through industry consultation, a review of case law, and in-depth analysis of marketplace needs, providing a trusted seal of approval for plant-based products. 

Vanessa Brown, Head of Trademarks at the Vegetarian Society, emphasized the importance of this certification in today’s evolving marketplace: 

“Customers are looking for reassurance from an easy-to-read label… ‘Plant-Based’ is a term that resonates with customers and manufacturers alike. The Vegetarian Society offers third-party checking, registration, and trademark services for products that meet plant-based criteria, giving customers the confidence to make informed purchases.” 

Consumer Confidence in a Growing Market 

The adoption of the Plant-Based Trademark by a major retailer like Lidl reflects the growing demand for transparency in plant-based labeling. With the plant-based market projected to continue expanding in 2025 and beyond, the need for clear and trustworthy certifications has never been more critical. 

By certifying the Vemondo Plant! range, Lidl provides consumers with a reliable way to identify products that align with their dietary preferences and values. This step also demonstrates Lidl’s commitment to supporting sustainable and ethical choices in their product lineup. 

Looking Ahead 

The Plant-Based Trademark is poised to become a significant tool for manufacturers looking to differentiate their products in a crowded market. Introduced at Plant Based World Expo in 2024, the trademark is already gaining traction among businesses seeking to meet the rising demand for plant-based options with confidence and credibility. 

For more information about the Plant-Based Trademark, visit www.plantbasedapproved.com. 

About the Vegetarian Society 

Founded in 1847, the Vegetarian Society works to create a better life for animals, people, and the planet. From recipes and cookery classes to political campaigns, the organization supports small changes that drive big impacts. Learn more at www.vegsoc.org. 

For media inquiries, contact Su Taylor at press@vegsoc.org