Should Vegan Products Use Animal Names? Food & Recipes

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There has been an ongoing discussion within the vegan community about whether animal names should be used when labelling vegan food products. The conversation often centres around the ethical, cultural and psychological impact of attaching animal references to foods that contain no animal ingredients at all. Some argue that terms like vegan duck, vegan beef, or plant-based chicken are misleading or potentially normalise the consumption of animals, even if unintentionally. Others believe these labels help people transitioning to veganism by providing familiar reference points that reduce confusion and support gradual dietary change.

There are also suggestions that alternatives exist, such as creative naming that avoids references to real animals, which might appeal to younger audiences or to those who prefer not to associate their meals with animal terminology. Another perspective is that people often miss the textures and memories associated with certain dishes rather than the meat itself, meaning that familiar wording on vegan products could simply offer comfort rather than a push back to eating animals.

Given these considerations, it seems worthwhile to explore how product names influence behaviour, accessibility and ethics within veganism. How far should vegan brands go in reflecting compassion through their labelling, and is it possible to balance clarity, familiarity and ethical messaging in a single product name?

I am interested to hear how others feel about this and whether the terminology used on vegan products affects your perception or purchasing choices.

 

[Janey]

I have always felt slightly conflicted about the use of traditional animal names for vegan products. On one hand, I understand why companies do it because it gives a clear and immediate idea of what the food will be like in terms of flavour and texture. It also helps people who are replacing meat in familiar recipes, which can be extremely useful for someone newly transitioning.

However, the more I think about it, the more I realise that the practice does reinforce an idea that meat is the standard and that vegan products must imitate it rather than stand independently. It would be interesting to see more brands develop their own terminology instead of relying on historical references to animal-based food.