If you’re new to shopping for vegans and animal lovers, you might be nervous about what to buy—and what to avoid. While it’s true that the thought counts most, nobody wants to commit a vegan gifting faux pas! These five simple tips will help keep your shopping stress-free and your gifts animal-free.
- Know What to Avoid
Whether you’re buying your vegan friend food, clothing, or health and beauty products, make sure your gift is free of animal-derived ingredients. That means no meat, dairy, eggs, or honey—and no wool, down, cashmere, leather, silk, or beeswax. It also means steering clear of items tested on animals.
- Always Check the Label
Some products clearly display a “Vegan” label or a simple “V.” Others highlight allergens, including animal-based ingredients, in bold. For clothing, check the tag for materials—sometimes located on the collar, waistband, or inside the bottom seam. Health and beauty items not tested on animals may be labeled “cruelty-free” or feature the recognizable leaping bunny logo.
- Rely on Trusted Brands
Many brands are entirely vegan, which makes shopping a breeze. Some of our favorites include Treeline cheeses, Maxine’s Heavenly cookies, Lush cosmetics, e.l.f. Cosmetics, Matt & Nat bags and accessories, and Compassion Co. apparel.
- When in Doubt, Google It
Not sure about a particular brand or product? Looking for something specific we haven’t mentioned? Just want to double-check for peace of mind? A quick search for the item’s name plus the word “vegan” will usually give you your answer in seconds.
- Keep It Simple
Showing someone you care isn’t about finding the most unique, obscure, or expert-level vegan gift. Many popular products are vegan by accident! Put together a fun assortment of goodies like Sour Patch Kids, Smarties, Oreos, and Twizzlers, and attach a card with a heartfelt message. Remember: it’s the thought that counts. Happy shopping!