This year’s International V-Label Awards are to include non-food categories for the first time, with public voting now open until the end of September.
“Reading the entries feels like time travelling to a year where every possible kind of food is available in a plant-based, cruelty-free version”
In 2021, V-Label launched the International V-Label Awards, to celebrate the businesses creating plant-based products and to recognise those that are making a difference in terms of global sustainability. Following the immense success of the first edition of the International V-Label Awards in 2021, the Awards were launched for the second time this year.
260 entries from over 30 countries
The application period is now closed, and public voting has officially begun. With 260 entries from over 30 countries, it is safe to say that the vegan product landscape is stepping up in diversity and international presence. Unlike last year’s event, which established 9 categories, this year’s event grants awards in a whopping 15 categories.
“From plant-based egg shells that crack just like the real thing to game-changing fish alternatives made from seaweed, reading the entries feels like time travelling to a year where every possible kind of food is available in a plant-based, cruelty-free version,” says Program Manager Nikolett Konkoly.
Consumers can vote for their favourite brands in 15 categories; the best dairy, meat, and fish alternative categories include surprising innovations like camembert made from fermented cauliflower, ice pops designed for toddlers or perfectly grillable plant-based salmon filets.
The niche categories include breakfast foods, ready meals, functional foods, and free-from options, and are ready to prove that going vegan doesn’t have to mean giving up on everyday indulgence.
Debut of non-food categories
“For the first time this year, the Awards include non-food categories as well, giving way to entries such as vegan paint and cactus-based leather in the categories of Best in Cosmetics, Textiles, and Household items, as well as in Innovation, Positive Impact, and Sustainability,” says Nikolett Konkoly.
“The latter three prioritize responsible business practices, but manufacturers dreaming up the most innovative plant-based ingredients are also competing in the respective B2B category,” she adds.
International jury
Alongside the public voting, an international jury panel, consisting of senior leaders from the industry, media, and NGOs, will be scoring each entry on uniqueness, innovation, and sustainability, as well as other criteria. A team of international influencers will also reward their favourites with the Special Influencers’ Award.
Givaudan Taste & Wellbeing, a global leader in flavours and taste, has joined the Awards as a Gold Sponsor, sponsoring the Best Fish Alternative category.
