Feuds

Is A Vegan Restaurant Still Vegan If It Uses Honey?

The Boston Vegan Association's sour on honey.
The Boston Vegan Association’s sour on honey. Photo: istockphoto

Newton-based Prana Cafe has found itself in a sticky situation thanks to the Boston Vegan Association. Why? The restaurant, which bills itself as vegan, uses honey.

The Association’s Facebook page scolds: “As a business, calling yourself vegan is a promise to the public that you shun the use of all animal products. It is unclear why the owners and chef feel that it is acceptable for them to make that promise while using an animal product in their offerings.”

They’re encouraging people to boycott Prana until they remove honey from their menus.

Prana offers this disclaimer: “Honey is used as a sweetener in some of our dishes. The honey is estate-grown and from a pesticide-free apiary.”

The Association refuses to support them until they “receive assurances that honey has been removed from the premises and that all efforts are being made to avoid contributing to further animal use.”

So, whaddya think? Is the Association justified in their anger? Should Prana yank their honey? [Boston Vegan Association]

Is A Vegan Restaurant Still Vegan If It Uses Honey?