Vegan Guide
Short answers to real-world questions about veganism — food, health, shopping, and everyday life.
Not under the vegan definition: silk is insect cocoons. That is an ethical value (we do not eat it), but the material fact is simple — animal origin.
Often not: gelatin capsules, lactose as a carrier, legally required animal tests. Veganism does not require refusing treatment. Ask for tablets instead of capsules when that is safe and available.
Cruelty-free means: not tested on animals. Vegan means: no animal ingredients (lanolin, carmine, beeswax, collagen). A product can be one without the other.
The definition talks about possibility and practice. Medicine you need is not a purity test. If a honey-free equivalent exists, it is fine to choose it. Do not drop treatment for a label.
The vast majority of vegans do not go to traditional circuses or zoos. Veganism is a philosophy that goes beyond diet — its foundation is opposition to all exploitation, captivity and use of animals for human entertainment or profit.
They do not buy new leather. Alternatives: PU/vinyl, canvas, rubber, cork, apple or mycelium leather, and second-hand if someone accepts extending the life of a pair that already exists.
