TÜV AUSTRIA in Greece won the Gold Award at the Vegan & Plant Based Awards 2026 for its Private Certification Scheme “OK Vegan,” a comprehensive and scientifically validated protocol for assessing the compliance of vegan products. The Scheme was developed by TÜV AUSTRIA in Greece, validated by the NGO “Vegan Life,” and is based on the International Standard ISO 23662:2021 and published scientific studies.
This distinction reflects the core principles and philosophy of “OK Vegan,” which clearly defines the substances from which products must be completely free, offering businesses a reliable tool for establishing a well-documented vegan identity. The certification process is fully remote, user-friendly, and carried out by specially trained auditors of TÜV AUSTRIA in Greece, facilitating companies of all sizes—from primary production to food service.
At the event, held on Monday, December 8 , Ms. Maria Agapitou, Head of the Management Systems & Products Certification Division, Ms. Antonia Chourdaki, Lead Auditor of Management Systems & Products and Manager of the “OK Vegan” Scheme and Ms. Antonia Garamtzidou, Head of the Organic Products Certification Department, were present and received the award.
Ms. Maria Agapitou, Head of the Management Systems & Products Certification Division of TÜV AUSTRIA in Greece, stated: “This distinction highlights the role of TÜV AUSTRIA in Greece as a reliable certification body that develops and delivers certifications with tangible value for the market. ‘OK Vegan’ is a comprehensive and scientifically substantiated scheme that ensures businesses can demonstrate, with transparency and consistency, their compliance with the principles of the vegan philosophy. Through initiatives such as this, TÜV AUSTRIA in Greece enhances the quality of certification services and supports market credibility for the benefit of both businesses and consumers.”
Ms. Antonia Chourdaki, Lead Auditor of Management Systems & Products and Manager of the “OK Vegan” Scheme, added: “‘OK Vegan’ is not merely a statement of intent, but a fully documented and reliable certification that confirms businesses’ genuine compliance with the vegan philosophy. It safeguards trust at every stage of the production chain and delivers meaningful value to those who invest in transparency, quality, and responsible business practices.” TÜV AUSTRIA in Greece is already moving forward with the expansion of the Scheme into the cosmetics and cleaning products sectors, responding to the continuously growing demand for reliable vegan product certification beyond the food sector.