International consumer label starts certification in Nigeria

Products from Nigeria for local and international markets can now get certified by leading international V-Label.

V-Label, the globally recognized vegan and vegetarian label, is proud to announce its new partnership with ProVeg Nigeria, the Nigerian office of global NGO ProVeg International. This collaboration marks an important milestone in promoting plant-based and vegan-friendly products in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, a rapidly growing market for sustainable and ethical consumption.

Consumers in Nigeria are looking for healthier food options following this global trend. Dietary habits in Nigeria have changed considerably in past years, with a growing proportion of consumers saying they are following a diet around the avoidance or moderation of animal-based products, with this being done for health, sustainability, and ethical purposes.

With the demand for plant-based foods and products rising in Nigeria, the collaboration between V-Label and ProVeg Nigeria is designed to foster consumer trust and transparency and offer companies a competitive edge in the vegan and vegetarian market.

“We are thrilled to join forces with V-Label, a globally respected certification that aligns with our values and goals,” said Hakeem Jimo, the Country Director of ProVeg Nigeria. “We have two goals: First, helping Nigerian export businesses – whether big or small – to become more competitive in foreign markets where vegan and vegetarian labeling are standard and expected by consumers, and second, to inspire healthier and more sustainable choices among consumers in Nigeria. V-Label can certify food or non-food products (cosmetics), agro commodities or even services.”

Exporting foods and other products is booming with the African diaspora being a huge market. Product awareness is already high in those markets with the African-American population for example being the fastest-growing Vegan community in the world. Also in Nigeria, the growing popularity of alternative protein products is expected to result in an annual growth rate for vegan food options in Nigeria from 2024 to 2031 is over 10.2%, meaning it is a market on the rise.

In a 2023 study, 4% of Nigerians described themselves as vegan, 17% as vegetarian, and 32% as flexitarian, a clear increase from the previous year. As 35% of African and Middle-Eastern consumers want to see a vegan-friendly claim on product packaging, the introduction of V-Label in Nigeria will undoubtedly be welcomed.

Martin Ranninger, Co-Director of V-Label International, states: “We are excited to welcome ProVeg Nigeria into our global network of partners. Their deep understanding of the local market and passion for plant-based advocacy make them an ideal partner for expanding V-Label’s presence on the African continent. Together, we aim to provide consumers with transparent and trustworthy options.”

ProVeg Nigeria is pivotal in growing the plant-based ecosystem in the country and has been actively involved in movement building and public outreach programs like the corporate health campaign, plant-based chef training and fast-food restaurant ranking.