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why we choose sustainability
WE’RE ON A MISSION TO MAKE ‘SUSTAINABLE’ MAINSTREAM.
Kind, healthy, sustainable: good for the earth and everyone on it.
Our goal is to establish 'sustainable shopping' as the prevailing practice, making it achievable, accessible, and fosters a desire in people to embrace it.
Making sustainable attainable
Veo seeks to transform how we live, how we produce, and how we consume. We challenge outdated economic models and aim to introduce innovative regenerative, closed-loop, and circular systems that redefine the relationship between businesses and consumers. We aspire to be a catalyst for positive change, inspiring a profound shift from alternative to aspirational, fundamentally reshaping the dynamics of supply and demand for the better.
For us, sustainability is not an option; it is an imperative. We strive to empower our community of consumers to lead healthier and happier lives through sustainable choices, providing them with products that not only last longer but are also of superior quality and represent better alternatives to widely available options.
In alignment with many of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG #12 which calls for "ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns," Veo mandates that all brands and products utilise pioneering methods of sustainable production. This commitment encompasses a more efficient use of our natural resources, the implementation of innovative bio-materials and organic fabrics, and the adoption of less wasteful practices. This enables us to curate collections of the highest quality products, striking a harmonious balance between sustainability and sophistication.
OUR MISSION IS BUILT UPON OUR THREE PILLARS
Kind
Promoting dignity and quality of life for all humans and animals. This includes fair pay and safe & decent working conditions for all workers, plus 100% vegan-friendly with no animals or by-products, across the supply chain.
Healthy
Promoting health & happiness for mind, body, and soul, to nourish inside and out, and living free from toxins, harmful ingredients, and hazardous substances, for a clean, vibrant, healthy lifestyle.
Sustainable
Promoting planet awareness, sustainability and biodiversity. Creating regenerative models of design & manufacture, looking to Circular Economy sustainable development.
🌎
Veo is built upon and operates in accordance with these fundamental values. Our foundations lie in the pressing need for a business model aligned with the 'Real Bottom Line': focused on sustainability for the good of the planet and those who inhabit it.
Built into our 3 pillars is our platform promise to uphold the dignity of all life on earth, to achieve an equilibrium with our natural surroundings so that we as a species find positive planetary symbiosis, co-existing in harmony with the delicate balance of nature.
OUR SUSTAINABILITY MISSION IS PROGRESSION
We’re here to…
Champion
Champion kindness, health and sustainability.
Empower
Empower small businesses, independent & responsible brands.
*Franck & Lucia of Saco Trading
Celebrate
Celebrate creatives, artisans, designers, small batch producers, and craftspersonship
*brand: Soap Daze
Inspire
Inspire and empower the consumer by providing informed choice, a curated platform of exceptional quality and unparalleled, feel-good shopping experience
*Kayla, Veo customer with pack of Creative Nature Gnawbles
WHAT IS OUR SUSTAINABILITY CRITERIA?
To ensure our brands and products meet our sustainability goals we created a comprehensive and rigorous ethical criteria that we apply to ourselves, our brands, and every single product that you see listed on Veo.
We undertake a thorough assessment of each brand, to demonstrate high quality, sustainable trading, responsible labour standards, and ethical supply chains.
Supply Chain Management
We require all brands that supply us with goods or services to adhere to the following principles:
- Environmental Protection: Brands must implement practices that minimise their environmental impact, including reducing waste, conserving resources, and using environmentally friendly materials and processes.
- Social Responsibility: Brands must treat their workers with respect and dignity, providing them with safe working conditions, fair wages and benefits, and opportunities for training and development.
- Fair Labour Practices: Brands must prohibit the use of forced labour, child labour, and any other form of exploitation.
Requirements for Brands
All brands must have clear systems in place to monitor and manage their compliance with our sustainability standards. This includes:
- Tier 1 Supplier Management: Brands must have clear systems in place to assess and monitor the sustainability performance of their Tier 1 suppliers.
- Tier 2 and Tier 3 Supplier Engagement: Brands must take appropriate steps to ensure that their Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers also comply with our sustainability standards. This may include conducting audits or providing training and support to suppliers.
- Transparency and Reporting: Brands must be transparent about their sustainability practices and provide us with regular reports on their progress.
Our Role
We will provide support to brands in implementing our sustainability standards. This includes:
- Vetting and Approval Process: We will vet all new brands to ensure that they meet our sustainability standards. We will also review existing brands on a regular basis to ensure that they are maintaining compliance.
- Sharing of Best Practices: We will share best practices with brands to help them improve their sustainability performance.
- Monitoring and Enforcement: We will monitor brand compliance with our standards and take enforcement action if necessary.
Worker's Rights
Veo Brands are committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethics, integrity and respect for others and our communities, at home and around the world. For this we ensure responsible global supply chains that protect the rights of workers, promote fair trade and uphold ethical labour standards, with:
- No use of forced labour.
- No employee discrimination.
- No excessive hours of work.
- Safe and healthy working conditions.
- Legal labour contracts.
- Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining.
- No sandblasting*
- Only ethical Mica mining practices**
*No Sandblasting
To promote worker's safety, Veo does not list any sandblasted product.
Sandblasting is a finishing technique often seen on 'distressed' clothing or denim items like jeans, but when performed without proper ventilation, safety equipment or training it puts workers at serious risk of lung disease due to inhalation of silica dust (aluminium oxide, aluminium silicate, silicon carbide). In short this practice is not permitted until it can be independently audited to ensure full protections and training are given to manufacturers and their workforce.
**Ethical Mica
Our ethical Mica policy is in place to promote fair and sustainable mica collection. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral commonly used in cosmetics to add shimmer to makeup (e.g. eyeshadow, nail polish, sun creams, deodorant, shampoo, etc). It is estimated that 25% of the mica used today comes from illegal mines in India where child labour is widespread.
“Only 10% of mica mines in Jharkhand and Bihar are legal, which means that most mines aren’t regulated and most labour laws aren’t enforced.”
- World Vision
There are still notable challenges around ensuring ethical mica, but we stay up to date on news and developments from the Responsible Mica Initiative (RMI) as 'a global coalition for action and putting policy into practice'.
Veo is a Living Wage Employer
There are many reasons why Veo supports a National Living Wage, but most importantly:
- It helps to reduce poverty and inequality: A study by the Resolution Foundation found that the NLW has lifted 2.4 million people out of poverty since its introduction.
- It boosts the economy: A study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies found that the NLW has increased consumer spending by £8.5 billion per year.
- It improves job satisfaction: A study by the Trades Union Congress found that 75% of workers who received the NLW said that it had made them feel better about their job.
- It reduces the gender pay gap: A study by the Equality and Human Rights Commission found that the NLW has reduced the gender pay gap by 1.4%.
Environmental Policy
Protecting the planet is one of our highest priorities, and great measures are taken to ensure that all Brands and products consider the environmental and ecological impact of the design, manufacture, production, processing and fulfilment of goods, to achieve low-carbon, minimal waste, reduced pollution, and eco friendly trading.
Our team and workforce is climate positive. The Veo website and our technology infrastructure is entirely carbon-neutral, our data centres consume 50% less energy than the typical data centre, and we use only 100% renewable energy.
Animal Welfare
We care about animals, so much so that Veo is a 100% vegan-friendly marketplace. This means avoiding the use, exploitation and oppression of animals, creating a cruelty-free zone that promotes the rights and wellbeing of all living creatures. All products sold on Veo are free from any animal products or by-products (including all ingredients and raw materials), are not animal tested, and 100% cruelty free.
Waste, Pollution & Plastic
In our mission for a greener planet we are working to eliminate single-use plastic from our platform. This means reducing waste and plastic in our packaging, choosing only sustainable, 100% biodegradable, compostable materials, and refraining from the use of polystyrene packing chips, polythene inflated air pillows, and similar* #wedontuseplastic.
*This applies to orders fulfilled by Veo. We also support our Brands who fulfil their own orders to eliminate single-use packaging materials, and move to adopting 100% compostable packaging.
ACCREDITATIONS & CERTIFICATIONS
These are just some of the accreditations and certifications we look for to ensure a Brands responsible manufacturing and production of their products, applicable to your products, materials, and supply chains across our core categories of Fashion, Beauty, Food & Drink, Wellness, and Home.
You will see many of the badges below displayed on Brand or product pages around Veo:
OUR CATEGORY POLICIES
Fashion, Apparel, Jewellery, & Accessories
No Virgin Polyester
Our non-virgin polyester policy means that we only approve recycled polyester, also known as rPET, in our fashion, clothing, and accessories products.
Why We Choose Recycled Polyester
Polyester is one of the most common single-use materials in fashion products, particularly footwear and activewear, due to its unique performance properties. It is a synthetic fibre that is known for its elasticity, durability, wrinkle-resistance, and moisture-wicking properties. However, traditional polyester production has a significant environmental impact.
- Non-renewable resources: Polyester is made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource.
- Carbon-intensive production: The production of polyester is a carbon-heavy process that is responsible for a significant portion >40% of the fashion industry's emissions.
- Microplastics: Polyester clothing releases microplastics when washed, which can pollute waterways, harm marine life, and cause toxicity when ingested by humans.
- Landfill waste: Polyester is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills.
Recycled polyester, on the other hand, offers a more sustainable alternative. It is made from post-consumer plastic waste, such as discarded bottles and fishnets, which reduces the demand for virgin petroleum. The production of recycled polyester also requires less vital resources, and reduces:
- energy use by 50%
- CO2 emissions by 75%
- water consumption by 90%
- plastic waste, where 1 kg of recycled polyester saves up to 60 plastic bottles
Benefits of Recycled Polyester
There are many benefits to using recycled polyester in fashion products.
- Reduces environmental impact: Recycled polyester production has a significantly lower environmental impact than virgin polyester production.
- Reduces waste: Recycled polyester helps to divert plastic waste from landfills and incinerators.
- Conserves resources: Recycled polyester production requires less energy and water than virgin polyester production.
- Maintains performance: Recycled polyester has the same performance properties as virgin polyester, making it a versatile and durable material for fashion products.
Challenges of Recycled Polyester
Despite its many benefits, recycled polyester still poses some challenges.
- Recycling limitations: Not all polyester can be recycled. Poly-blends of polyester and other fibres, such as cotton, are often difficult to recycle.
- Microplastics: Recycled polyester clothing can still release microplastics when washed.
- Non-biodegradability: Recycled polyester is still not biodegradable, just like virgin polyester.
Our Approach
Veo is committed to addressing the challenges of recycled polyester and continuously improving our sustainability practices. We are working with our brands to discover innovative recycling technologies and to minimise microplastic shedding. We are also educating our customers about the importance of sustainable fashion choices.
Cotton Policy
All cotton you find on Veo must be certified by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Soil Association, or other accredited organic cotton for new or virgin cotton.
Why We Choose Organic Cotton
Conventional cotton production has a significant environmental impact. It is a water-intensive crop that requires large amounts of pesticides and fertilisers. These chemicals can pollute waterways and harm the health of farmers and local communities. Organic cotton, on the other hand, is grown without the use of these harmful chemicals. This makes it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option.
Benefits of Organic Cotton
There are many benefits to using organic cotton in fashion products.
- Reduces environmental impact: Organic cotton production has a significantly lower environmental impact than conventional cotton production.
- Protects workers' health: Organic cotton production protects the health of farmers and other workers who come into contact with the crop.
- Improves soil health: Organic cotton farming practices improve soil health and fertility.
- Maintains quality: Organic cotton is known for its soft, high-quality fibres.
Upcycled and Recycled Cotton
For our Brands that produce using upcycled or recycled materials, cotton need not be certified organic. This is because the brand is not sourcing virgin textiles, but rather rescuing existing fabrics and materials that would otherwise go to landfill. Upcycled and recycled cotton are both sustainable options that help to reduce waste and promote a circular economy.
Labour Ethics and Workers' Rights
In addition to our commitment to using organic cotton, we are also committed to upholding labour ethics and workers' rights. We require all Brands that produce for us to be certified by the Fair Wear Foundation, WRAP, or another accredited organisation. This ensures that our products are made in safe and fair working conditions, and that workers are treated with respect.
Exclusions
Our policy of only using organic cotton and requiring labour ethics certifications does exclude some producers in certain regions. This includes the Xinjiang Uyghur Region of China and Turkmenistan, where state-sanctioned forced labour is widely documented. Accordingly Veo ensures that our Brands adhere to strict ethical sourcing standards, having clear policies against sourcing products from regions known for forced labour, and implementing robust due diligence procedures to ensure that their supply chains are free from forced labour.
Additional Considerations for Organic Cotton
- Water and land resources: Organic cotton cultivation requires significant water and land resources. We need to be mindful of how this is managed within the supply chain to ensure that it is sustainable.
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): We look for garments with the GOTS certification because this ensures that the product has at least 70% certified organic fibre content and that it was made using environmentally friendly production processes. GOTS also insists on specific social criteria that must be met by all processors and manufacturers and are defined in accordance with the norms of the International Labour Organisation. A social compliance management system is required to be in place to ensure that all criteria are met.
- Non-virgin or recycled cotton: We also approve non-virgin or recycled cotton, because cotton recycling is an ecological textile production method that conserves resources, reduces waste, and doesn't involve harmful substances. The process significantly saves water, energy, and carbon dioxide emissions.
Animal Friendly & Cruelty-Free
Veo's fashion policy prohibits the use of animals and animal by-products in all of our products, creating a fashion category that is 100% vegan, cruelty-free and animal-friendly.
Why We Choose Animal-Free Products
The fashion industry has a significant impact on animal welfare, and animals are subjected to painful procedures such as mulesing and debeaking. The production of animal-based materials in Fashion also has a negative impact on the environment, contributing to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Addressing the Leather 'By-product' Argument
Some 'ethical' manufacturers excuse their leather purchases on the grounds that skins are simply a by-product of the meat industry. Yet even if leather is a by-product of the meat industry, it is still a product that is directly linked to the rearing of an animal, the resources required, and billions of animals suffering. Therefore, the production of leather also requires large amounts of land and energy.
Why We Choose Animal-Free Products
There are many benefits to choosing animal-free fashion products, and taking a stand against animal cruelty and promoting a more sustainable future for fashion:
- Compassion: Vegan and cruelty-free products are produced without the use of animals, which means that no animals are harmed in the process.
- Sustainability: The production of animal-based materials has a significant negative impact on the environment. Vegan and cruelty-free products are a more sustainable option, as they require less water, land, and energy to produce.
- Innovation: The vegan fashion industry is constantly innovating, creating new and exciting materials that are indistinguishable from their animal-based counterparts.
- Health: Some animal-based materials, such as leather and fur, can contain harmful chemicals that may be hazardous to human health. Vegan and cruelty-free products are a healthier option.
Our Products
All of Veo's Fashion products are made entirely without animal products or by-products. This includes:
- No hides, skins, or hairs
- No leather, suede
- No wool, fur
- No silk, down, feathers
- No angora, shearling, or cashmere
We use a variety of innovative and sustainable materials, such as plant-based leathers, recycled fibres, and organic cotton. We are constantly working to expand our selection of vegan and cruelty-free products to meet the needs of our customers.
Some of the most exciting and luxurious plant-based leathers that we list are taking the fashion world by storm:
- Pineapple Leather (Piñatex): Made from the waste leaves of pineapple plants, Piñatex is a durable, breathable, and water-resistant material that resembles traditional leather. It's also a sustainable option, as it utilises a byproduct of the pineapple industry that would otherwise be discarded.
- Apple Leather: Created from apple peels, apple leather is a soft, supple, and versatile material that can be used for a variety of applications, including bags, wallets, and shoes. It's also a sustainable choice, as it utilises a waste product from the food industry.
- Mushroom Leather (inc. Mylo): Mylo is a bio-based leather made from mycelium, the root-like structure of mushrooms. It's a sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to traditional leather, and it has the potential to revolutionise the fashion industry.
- Cactus Leather (Desserto): Derived from the nopal cactus, Desserto is a durable, water-resistant, and breathable material that is also soft and pliable. It's a sustainable option, as it utilises a renewable resource and requires less water to produce than traditional leather.
- Grape Leather: Made from grape waste, grape leather is a sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to traditional leather. It's also a versatile material that can be used for a variety of applications, including bags, wallets, and shoes.
Health & Beauty
Animal Friendly & Cruelty-Free
When we choose to use cruelty-free and vegan ingredients, we are helping to reduce animal suffering, are also helping to protect the environment, and vegan beauty products are proven to be more effective!
For example, studies have found that vegan sunscreens were more effective at protecting the skin from UV damage than sunscreens that contained animal-derived ingredients. Also cruelty-free makeup is better for sensitive skin, and is less likely to irritate sensitive skin than makeup that was tested on animals. Additionally, vegan hair products are better for the environment, with a lower environmental impact than hair products that contained animal-derived ingredients.
That's why we have chosen to exclude the following ingredients from our products:
- Lanolin*
- Shellac
- Glycerine*
- Casein* (aka sodium caseinate or caseinate)
- Squalene*
- Guanine
- Oleic acid* (aka oleyl stearate, oleyl oleate or tallow)
- Placenta (including lipids, proteins, enzymes, extracts)
- Animal hair
- Stearic Acid*
- Carmine (aka cochineal, natural red 4, E120, and C.I. 75470)
- Animal, bovine, or marine Collagen*
- Elastin*
- Keratin*
- Beeswax*.
We believe that these ingredients are unnecessary and harmful, and we are committed to providing our customers with products that are free from them.
*Animal free, plantbased, and vegan alternatives are OK, and exist in the form of oils, plant butters, and soya waxes.
Toxin Free
Veo is committed to providing our customers with safe, effective, and sustainable products across all categories, including health, hygiene, personal care, beauty, cosmetics, hair care, skincare, and makeup. As part of this commitment, we have adopted a comprehensive policy that prohibits the use of toxic or harmful ingredients, abrasive synthetic colouring, fragrances, or fabrics (using only low impact fibre reactive dyes).
Why We Choose Non-Toxic Products
Traditional beauty products often contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. These chemicals can have a negative impact on our health, causing everything from skin irritation to hormone and endocrine disruption.
We believe that everyone deserves access to safe and healthy beauty products.
Prohibited Ingredients
That's why we have chosen to exclude the following ingredients from our products::
- Parabens (including methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, phenyl paraben)
- Triclosan, triclocarban
- Any Formaldehyde or formaldehyde donors (quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, polyquaternium-15)
- PEG-4, PEG-7, PEG4-dilaurate, PEG 100, or PEG-6, PEG-8, PEG-32, PEG-75, PEG-150, PEG-14M, and PEG-20M
- Preservatives (sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol [bromopol], glyoxal)
- Petroleum-based ingredients (PABA, benzene, mineral oil, petrolatum, phthalates [including DBP, DMP, DEP], toluene)
- BHA / BHT additives (Butylated Hydroxyanisole / Butylated Hydroxytolune)
- UV filters (including oxybenzone, octinoxate)
- Petroleum derivatives (including petroleum jelly, paraffin oil, paraffin wax, mineral oil)
- EDTA salts and compounds (including tetrasodium, trisodium, disodium)
- BPA plastics
- Methylisothiazolinone (MI)
- Talc
- Any substances listed under Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC)
- Microbeads
- Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
Benefits of Non-Toxic Products
There are many benefits to using non-toxic products.
- Healthier Living: Non-toxic products are less likely to cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, or disrupt hormones.
- Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Non-toxic products help to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals, which can promote overall wellness.
- Environmental Protection: Non-toxic products are often made with sustainable ingredients and are produced using eco-friendly practices.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are using safe and healthy products can give you peace of mind.
Food & Drink
Animal Friendly & Cruelty-Free
All food & drink products are made entirely without animal products or by-products. This allows us to showcase a variety of delicious, nutritious, and sustainable vegan and plant-based food and drink options.
Aligning with Our 3 Pillars: Kind, Healthy, Sustainable
Our decision to offer exclusively vegan and plant-based food and drink aligns perfectly with our three core pillars:
- Kind: We believe in treating all living beings with compassion and respect. By eliminating animal products from our offerings, we are taking a stand against animal cruelty and promoting a more ethical food system.
- Healthy: We are committed to providing our customers with food and drink options that support their well-being. Vegan and plant-based diets have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. They are also naturally lower in saturated fat and cholesterol.
- Sustainable: We recognise the environmental impact of our food choices. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By embracing a plant-based approach, we are minimising our environmental footprint and promoting a more sustainable future.
Benefits of Vegan-friendly and Plant-Based Food and Drink
To demonstrate the positive impacts, after 1 month of eating a plant-based vegan diet an individual will help avoid:
- the death of 33 animals
- the use of 33,000 gallons of water for animal food production
- the destruction of 900 square feet of forest
- the creation of an extra 600 pounds of CO2 gas, and
- the feeding of 1,200 pounds of grain to animals that could have fed starving communities worldwide.
Prohibited Ingredients
Veo specifically prohibits the use of the following animal products or by-products:
- Meat
- Eggs
- Dairy products
- Beeswax
- Honey
- Milk
- Casein
- Whey
- Confectionery shellac glaze
- Gelatin
- L. Cysteine
- Isinglass
No Artificial Sweeteners
To promote our Health pillar, all food & drink products focuses on preferring healthier less-refined sugars where possible, including excluding all artificial sweeteners, and high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) from our products.
Why We Choose Natural Sweetness
Artificial sweeteners have been linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. We believe that our customers deserve access to healthier alternatives that still provide the sweetness they crave.
Allowed Sweeteners
Our policy allows the use of the following natural sweeteners:
- Fruit concentrates: Fruit concentrates are a natural and healthy way to add sweetness to food and drink. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Barley malt syrup: Barley malt syrup is a natural sweetener made from barley. It is a good source of energy and has a low glycemic index, which means it does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.
- Dates and date syrup: Dates are a naturally sweet fruit that is a good source of fibre and nutrients. Date syrup is a concentrated form of date paste that can be used as a sweetener.
- Fructooligosaccharides (oligofructose) and inulin: Fructooligosaccharides and inulin are soluble fibres that act as prebiotics. They promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
- Maple syrup: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener made from maple sap. It is a good source of antioxidants.
- Molasses: Molasses is a byproduct of sugar production. It is a good source of iron and calcium.
- Coconut sugar and coconut nectar: Coconut sugar and coconut nectar are natural sweeteners made from coconut palm sap. They are a good source of potassium and have a low glycemic index.
- Agave syrup: Agave syrup is a natural sweetener made from the agave plant. It is a good source of inulin.
- Rice syrup: Rice syrup is a natural sweetener made from rice. It has a neutral flavour and is a good source of energy.
- Stevia: Stevia is a natural sweetener made from the stevia plant. It is a very intense sweetener, so only a small amount is needed.
- Sweet Freedom: Sweet Freedom is a blend of erythritol and stevia. It is a zero-calorie sweetener that is safe for people with diabetes.
- Yacon powder/syrup: Yacon powder and syrup are natural sweeteners made from the yacon plant. They are a good source of fibre and have a low glycemic index.
- Chicory root fibre: Chicory root fibre is a soluble fibre that acts as a prebiotic. It has a slightly sweet taste.
- Fruit sugars and extracts: Fruit sugars and extracts are a natural way to add sweetness to food and drink. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals.
- Sugar alcohols: Sugar alcohols are a type of carbohydrate that is partially metabolised by the body. They are a good alternative to sugar for people with diabetes.
- *(Table) sugar: normal refined table sugar - white or brown - comes from either sugarcane or sugar beets, and is pure, crystallised sucrose. Unlike unrefined sugars, refined or granulated sugar has little nutritional value, and is metabolised much quickly due to lack of fibre and enzymes. However, it is not artificial, and many consumer-packaged confectioners or bakeries may still use refined sugar for ease in recipes.
Benefits of Natural Sweeteners
Natural sweeteners offer a variety of benefits over artificial sweeteners:
- Healthier: Natural sweeteners are generally lower in calories and have a lower glycemic index than artificial sugars and sweeteners, many of which that may be harmful to health. They also retains most of the sugar's natural nutrients, including calcium, iron and magnesium, which are lost in processed or refined.
- More flavour: Natural sweeteners can provide a more complex and nuanced flavour than artificial sugars and sweeteners.
- Versatility: Natural sweeteners can be used in a variety of applications, including baking, cooking, and beverage preparation.
Low Sugar Beverages
The growing consumption of added sugars in beverages has raised concerns about its negative impact on public health. In response, governments worldwide have implemented various measures to reduce sugar consumption, including sugar taxes.
The Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL)
In the United Kingdom, the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL), often referred to as the "sugar tax," was introduced in 2018 to discourage the consumption of sugary drinks. The levy is applied to UK-produced or imported soft drinks containing added sugar, with rates varying based on the sugar content:
- No levy on soft drinks containing less than 5 grams of sugar per 100 milliliters (ml)
- 18 pence per liter on soft drinks containing between 5 and 8 grams of sugar per 100 ml
- 24 pence per liter on soft drinks containing more than 8 grams of sugar per 100 ml
Certain beverages are exempt from the levy, and it does not apply to naturally-occurring sugars found in fruits, vegetables, alcohol, and juices.
Impact of the SDIL
The SDIL has been credited with reducing the sugar content of soft drinks in the UK. A 2021 study by the UK government found that the average sugar content of soft drinks subject to the levy decreased by 44% between 2016 and 2019.
The levy has also been associated with increased sales of low-sugar and sugar-free alternatives, suggesting that consumers are shifting towards healthier beverage choices.
Non-toxic
We confirm that products sold on our marketplace abstain from using toxic or harmful ingredients and preservatives. Some of the ingredients we have specifically chosen to exclude from our marketplace include:
- High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): HFCS is a processed sweetener that has been linked to various health concerns, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
- Artificial Sweeteners: see above.
- Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): MSG is a flavour enhancer that has been associated with headaches, nausea, and other adverse reactions in some individuals.
- Synthetic Trans Fats: Synthetic trans fats, also known as partially hydrogenated oils, are unhealthy fats that can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Artificial Colours: Artificial colors, such as Blue 1, Green 3, Red 40, and Yellow 5, are often used to enhance the appearance of food. However, some concerns exist about their potential negative effects on health.
- Added Sulphites: Sulphites are preservatives that can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with asthma.
- Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA): BHA is a preservative that has been linked to cancer in animal studies.
- Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT): BHT is a preservative that has also been associated with cancer in animal studies.
- Potassium Bromate: Potassium bromate is a dough conditioner that can cause cancer in humans.
- Sodium Nitrates and Sodium Nitrites: Sodium nitrates and nitrites are preservatives used in cured meats. They can react with amines to form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.
- Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): While the safety of GMOs is still a subject of debate, we have chosen to exclude them from our marketplace to provide our customers with GMO-free options.
Allergens
Allergens are declared on all food & drink products. The 14 allergens are:
celery, cereals containing gluten (such as barley and oats), crustaceans (such as prawns, crabs and lobsters), eggs, fish, lupin, milk & dairy, molluscs (such as mussels and oysters), mustard, peanuts, sesame, soybeans, sulphur dioxide and sulphites (if they are at a concentration of more than ten parts per million), tree nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, brazil nuts, cashews, pecans, pistachios and macadamia nuts).
*Crossed items are not included as part of animal products being prohibited.
Palm Oil
Veo has a no conflict palm oil policy, and brands must use only sustainable and traceable palm oil that is free of deforestation, habitat loss, expansion on carbon-rich peatlands, and human rights violations.
We recognise the significant environmental and social impacts associated with palm oil production, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our Brands' palm oil supply chain is free from deforestation, habitat loss, exploitation of workers and indigenous communities, and other harmful practices.
Key Principles of Our Palm Oil Policy
Our palm oil policy is guided by the following key principles:
- No Deforestation: Brands will not source palm oil from plantations that have been established through deforestation or the destruction of natural habitats.
- No Habitat Loss: Brands will not source palm oil from plantations that have caused the loss of critical habitats for endangered species or biodiversity hotspots.
- No Expansion on Peatlands: Brands will not source palm oil from plantations that have been established on carbon-rich peatlands.
- Respect for Human Rights: Brands will ensure that our palm oil supply chain is free from human rights violations, including child labor, forced labor, and discrimination.
- Transparency and Traceability: Brands will work with our suppliers to ensure that our palm oil is traceable from the plantation to the consumer, allowing us to monitor and verify compliance with our sustainability standards.
Implementation of Our Policy
To implement our palm oil policy effectively, we have established the following measures:
- Supplier Selection: Brands will only source palm oil from suppliers who have demonstrated a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
- Sustainability Audits: Brands must conduct regular audits of their suppliers' operations to ensure compliance with our policy requirements.
- Traceability Systems: Brands must implement traceability systems to track the movement of palm oil from the plantation to the consumer.
- Stakeholder Engagement: We encourage Brands to engage with stakeholders, including NGOs, communities, and industry partners, to address palm oil-related issues and promote sustainable practices.
Home & Lifestyle
Animal Friendly & Cruelty-Free
As above, all products in our Home range are made entirely without animal products or by-products.
Please check above for lists of materials and ingredients that are prohibited from Food & Drink products, and also Fashion, Clothing and Accessories products.
Timber Policy
We recognize the importance of responsible forestry practices for environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and social equity. As part of this commitment, we have adopted a policy that prioritises sustainable timber sourcing and the use of fairtrade, upcycled, reclaimed, or recycled wood whenever possible.
Key Principles of Our Timber Sourcing Policy
Our timber sourcing policy is guided by the following key principles:
- Sustainable Forest Management: Brands prioritise sourcing timber from forests that are managed sustainably under certified systems such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This ensures that forests are harvested responsibly, with consideration for ecological balance, biodiversity preservation, and the well-being of local communities.
- Fairtrade Practices: We encourage the sourcing of fairtrade timber to ensure that workers involved in the forestry and timber industry are treated fairly and compensated appropriately. Fairtrade practices promote ethical sourcing and support the livelihoods of timber producers and their communities.
- Upcycled, Reclaimed, or Recycled Wood: We promote the use of upcycled, reclaimed, or recycled wood whenever possible. This approach reduces the demand for newly harvested timber, minimises environmental impact, and promotes resource conservation.
- Compliance with Legal and Environmental Regulations: Brands must strictly adhere to all national and international legislation related to the trade in forest products. This includes ensuring that timber is sourced from legal origins, complies with environmental regulations, and does not contribute to deforestation or habitat loss.
- Responsible Sourcing from Conflict Areas: Brands must demonstrate how they avoid sourcing timber from areas of armed conflict or civil unrest where there is a direct relationship between the forest products trade and the funding of such conflicts. We recognise the potential for conflict timber to contribute to instability and human rights violations.
Implementation of Our Policy
To effectively implement our timber sourcing policy, we have established the following measures:
- Supplier Selection: We diligently vet our Brands' timber suppliers to ensure they meet our sustainability standards and adhere to our policy requirements. We prioritise Brands who demonstrate a commitment to responsible forestry practices, ethical sourcing, and environmental protection.
- Due Diligence and Audits: We ensure Brands conduct regular due diligence on their timber supply chain to verify compliance with our policy. This includes audits of supplier operations, tracing the origin of timber, and ensuring that all certifications are valid and up-to-date.
- Collaboration with Stakeholders: We encourage Brands to engage with stakeholders, including NGOs, forestry experts, and industry partners, to address timber-related issues and promote sustainable practices across the supply chain.
Non Toxic
We confirm that products abstain from using toxic or hazardous chemicals and substances in the treatment of products, dyes and adhesives. This includes perfluorinated chemicals and groups of toxic chemicals that include PFOA and PFOS and other perfluorinated, polyfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs, PFCs, PFOA, PFOS). Alkyphenol Ethoxylates (APEOs) are also prohibited as APEOs and their derivatives are a group of man-made chemicals that do not occur naturally. They are synthetic non-ionic surfactants used in some detergents and cleaning products.
PFCs or some PFASs can take over 1000 years to degrade, and are often used in food packaging and non-stick, stain repellent products, but also waterproof products, including clothes and other products used by outdoor enthusiasts.
PFASs can enter the environment through production or waste streams and are very persistent in the environment and the human body. There is toxicological evidence that some PFAS have adverse reproductive, developmental and immunological effects in animals and humans.
Ensuring the use of APEO-free chemicals and non-PFC based durable water repellent polymers (DWRs) is best for health of humans, animals and wildlife, and the environment.
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