Some experiments with Vegemite have gone horribly wrong. Here's a few that work

To celebrate World Vegan Day an iconic Australian brand is making a big change — by doing nothing at all to its famous recipe.

That’s right, from today Vegemite is officially vegan even though its recipe always has been.

The iconic Aussie spread has made the decision to be certified vegan as part of the brand’s bid to “appeal to all Australians” and move with the current change in lifestyle options.

Vegemite nutritionist Claire Saundry said the certification meant that all Australian vegans could “confidently enjoy” the product.

“Vegemite is rich in four B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and folate, making it a fitting choice for vegetarians and vegans,” she said.

But all it really means is a little Vegan Australia Certified logo will appear on all Vegemite jars, leading some shoppers to brand the whole thing a change “no one wanted”.

“Why can’t Vegans just read the ingredients label?” one person wrote on Facebook.

“If the recipe hasn’t changed I couldn't care less what the paperwork says,” another mused.

While one asked: “Is it gonna cost more now cos it’s got an official vegan stamp?”

Many defended the change, stating the logo made it easier to know it was a vegan-friendly food.

“Thank you, that’s one less label I have to read,” one delighted person commented.

“People are mad but it’s always been vegan,” another added.

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The Vegan certification means Vegemite is free from animal products, has not being tested on animals or made using animal products.

“To keep Vegemite relevant today, it needs to appeal to all Australians,” Vegemite senior marketing manager Matt Gray said.

“With over 10 per cent of Australians choosing a vegan or vegetarian-based diet, it’s important that they can still enjoy the nation’s favourite spread – so we sought official certification from Vegan Australia.”

So far, the news has had a mixed reaction from shoppers.

“As long as the recipe hasn't changed I couldn't care less what the paperwork says. I’m still going to enjoy it on toast topped with a poached egg!!” one person remarked on Facebook.

“That’s OK, it goes well on lamb chops with a sprinkle of rosemary,” another wrote.

Others seemed surprised to learn their favourite toast topping was vegan, with one person remarking “at least I can say I have one vegan meal a day”.