Veganuary and the Drinks Industry: How to Sip Sustainably in 2025
Posted by Tamsin on 7th Jan 2025
As Veganuary kicks off, millions of people worldwide are embracing a plant-based lifestyle for the month of January- and often beyond. While much of the focus is on food, there’s a surprising amount to consider when it comes to what we drink. For those looking to align their beverages with their vegan principles, navigating the drinks industry can be a little more complex than it seems at first glance.
Hidden Animal Products in Drinks
At first glance, you might think that drinks - especially alcohol - would naturally be vegan. After all, wine is made from grapes, beer from barley and hops, and spirits from grains, fruits, or botanicals. However, many beverages involve animal products during their production process, often in ways that aren’t obvious from the label.
One of the biggest culprits is fining agents. These are substances used to clarify drinks by removing unwanted particles. Common animal-derived fining agents include:
Isinglass: A collagen derived from fish bladders, often used in beer and wine.
Gelatine: A protein made from animal bones, skin, or connective tissue, also used in clarification.
Casein: A milk protein occasionally used in wine production.
Egg Whites (Albumen): Frequently used in red wines to smooth tannins.
Fortunately, many producers are now adopting vegan-friendly alternatives like bentonite clay, activated charcoal, or pea protein for fining. Additionally, labelling transparency is improving, with more companies identifying their products as vegan-friendly.
If you’re looking to keep your drinks animal-free this Veganuary, the good news is that there are plenty of delicious options available. Let’s explore a few standout choices from Click N Drink’s range.
Sea Change Wines
Sea Change is a wine brand that’s making waves—not just for being vegan but also for its commitment to sustainability. With every bottle sold, Sea Change donates to ocean conservation projects and eliminates unnecessary plastic from its packaging. Here are some highlights from their collection:
This vegan-friendly prosecco is a sparkling delight. With notes of pear and green apple, it’s perfect for celebrating Veganuary milestones or pairing with light plant-based dishes.
A beautifully crisp and dry rosé, bursting with summer berry flavours. It’s an excellent choice for those dreaming of warmer days during the January chill.
Sea Change Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon
This bold, full-bodied red is a treat for wine lovers. With rich flavours of dark fruit and a hint of spice, it pairs wonderfully with hearty vegan meals like mushroom bourguignon or lentil shepherd’s pie.
Lustre Non-Dairy Cream Liqueur
A tropical twist on a classic cream liqueur, with the sweet and tangy flavour of pineapple. Delicious over ice or in a fruity cocktail.
A sweet and indulgent treat, this liqueur blends luscious strawberry flavours with a smooth, creamy texture.
Perfect for coffee lovers, this liqueur delivers the rich and comforting taste of a classic caffe latte in a dairy-free format.
Beavertown Brewery
Beavertown is known for its bold, flavourful beers and quirky can designs - and most of its offerings are vegan-friendly. Whether you’re after a crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a refreshing alcohol-free option, there’s something for everyone.
A light and refreshing lager with subtle malty notes and a clean finish. It’s perfect for casual sipping or pairing with your favourite plant-based snacks.
Beavertown Neck Oil Session IPA
This session IPA is packed with juicy, hoppy flavours and a low ABV, making it a go-to choice for a laid-back evening.
Beavertown Lazer Crush Alcohol-Free IPA
All the bold, hoppy character of an IPA, but without the alcohol. Perfect for those who want to enjoy great beer while sticking to Dry January as well as Veganuary.
Why Choose Vegan Drinks?
Opting for vegan-friendly beverages during Veganuary isn’t just about avoiding animal products; it’s also a chance to:
Support Sustainability: Many vegan brands, like Sea Change, are committed to reducing their environmental footprint.
Encourage Transparency: Choosing vegan drinks signals to producers that consumers value clear labelling and ethical practices.
Discover New Favourites: Exploring vegan drinks can lead to exciting new flavours and brands that you might not have tried otherwise.
Tips for Finding Vegan Drinks
Look for Vegan Certifications: Labels like “Certified Vegan” or “Vegan-Friendly” can simplify your search.
Research Online: Websites like The Vegan Society are great for checking whether specific brands or products are vegan.
Ask Questions: If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to producers or retailers for clarification.
Explore Trusted Retailers: Click N Drink offers a curated selection of vegan-friendly beverages, making it easy to find great options.
So, why not raise a glass to Veganuary and toast to a kinder, greener future? Cheers!