Vegan alternatives as the source of halal cosmetic products: a comparative analysis in efficiency, cost, and ethical ımplications

Abstract

The growing demand for vegan cosmetics, projected to reach US $20 billion by 2028, presents a significant opportunity for the cosmetics industry. However, aligning vegan products with halal certification remains a challenge, especially given the prevalence of animal-derived ingredients in traditional formulations. This study explores the comparative efficacy, cost implications, and ethical considerations of vegan versus animal-based ingredients in cosmetics. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and market trends, we examine the benefits of vegan cosmetics, such as their cruelty-free production and reduced environmental impact, alongside the barriers to halal certification. The research identifies key vegan alternatives—such as agar, carrageenan, soy, and plant-based colourants—that offer similar functional benefits to animal-derived ingredients like collagen, gelatin, and keratin but often require additional processing or formulation adjustments to achieve comparable results. Despite these challenges, vegan alternatives offer cost-effective solutions and align more easily with ethical standards, including halal compliance. The study concludes that heightened consumer awareness, alongside innovative product formulations, can facilitate the acceptance of vegan and halal-certified cosmetics for ethical consumption practices in the industry.