Arjen Lubach and Lidl among Vegan Awards winners

On January 31, the Nederlandse Vereniging voor Veganisme (NVV) presented the 2025 Vegan Awards. Winners across eight categories received their awards at theater ZIMIHC Stefanus in Utrecht. The rapid pace at which the plant-based movement is currently evolving is quite remarkable. Both major supermarkets and national television programs took the stage this year. According to team leader Axel Blom, large organizations are now truly showing up for the ceremony. This has led to a sense of broad appreciation among all nominees.

Winners in the spotlight

Life’s A Peach took home the top prize in the Best Vegan Bakery & Patisserie category. For a quality meal, voters say Vegan Sushi Bar is the place to be. The retail sector was also well-represented. For instance, supermarket chain Lidl won an award for their initiative regarding more affordable meat alternatives. When it came to the best product, the public couldn't overlook the bitterballen from Cas & Kas. Chairwoman Danielle Vol-van der Holst notes that she sees surprisingly innovative nominations every single year.

Lubach on a plant-based future

Arjen Lubach received the award for Best Vegan Education & Information following his segment on meat names. He describes winning the award as "a great honor." Regarding the win, Lubach stated: “That means not only that our attempt at humor landed, but apparently the message did its job too. Although a wide variety of opinions can be found in our editorial office, the consensus is that eating no (or less) meat can have a massive impact on the world and the climate. Personally, I would like to add the arguments of health and animal suffering. It might sound activist, but I truly hope the future is plant-based.”

A festive conclusion to Veganuary

The ceremony also marked the end of the national campaign ‘What is your favorite animal?’. In addition to recognizing the winners' achievements, a toast was held to celebrate the conclusion of Veganuary. The NVV has been presenting these awards to various pioneers since 2010. For the movement, it is a moment to pause and reflect on all the triumphs. According to the organization, this fosters a strong sense of community. As such, the evening served as a positive celebration of the growth within the vegan industry.

Veganisme.org