Beyond the plate: veganism extends to intimate products

Lieke Warmoeskerken, an entrepreneur based in Rotterdam, Netherlands, says she frequently has to educate consumers about the potential presence of animal products in items like condoms, lubricants, and sex toys. “You think about what you put in your mouth, so why don’t you think about what you’ve put on your body?” she stated. Her company, LieLei, specializes in vegan, ethically produced, and environmentally friendly erotic products.

Latex in condoms can be treated with milk protein for softness, and while silicone, a common material in sex toys, is vegan, glues and dyes may not be. A recent study from Wageningen University revealed a second consecutive year of declining meat consumption in the Netherlands, reflecting a broader shift in consumer habits.

Simone Kuijer, aged 30, initially used coconut oil as a lubricant but discovered it could harm latex condoms and disrupt the body’s natural pH. This realization led her to create Aia, a sexual wellness brand that is entirely vegan and sustainably sourced. Aia’s products include lubricant made with plant-derived glycerin and massage oil candles without beeswax, manufactured an hour outside of Amsterdam.

Stephanie Heerema, 28, who adopted a vegetarian diet at age 10 and later transitioned to veganism, is actively seeking sustainable lifestyle choices. She expressed concern about lactose in her birth control, a common binding agent in medications. Heerema researches products carefully, opting for vegan lubricants and condoms and ensuring vibrators are made with recycled plastic.

Both entrepreneurs are also addressing the issue of microplastics. Warmoeskerken’s shop minimizes plastic use and discloses when alternatives like vegan leather harnesses contain it. Kuijer, currently pregnant, prioritizes avoiding plastic due to concerns about microplastics in breast milk and has introduced a line of glass adult toys and uses glass jars for her products.