Q1. Why did you announce you were labelling products as being suitable for vegetarians?

A1. Following concerns expressed by vegetarians about the suitability of our products in the spring of 2007, this message on pack is the best way to ensure we clearly communicate the suitability of our confectionery to the millions of vegetarians in the UK who enjoy our products.

Q2. Why do you follow the FSA labelling guidelines?

A2. The FSA is a respected independent authority who we look to for all of our guidance on food labelling and food safety. We decided to communicate the suitability of our confectionery to the millions of vegetarians in the UK who enjoy our products on our packaging and believe that it was appropriate to rely on the FSA guidelines for this.

Q3. Why did you decide to change the ingredients in the first place?

A3. We made the change to broaden our supply base in order to ensure we could continue to provide our consumers with products of consistent quality in the future.  We underestimated the impact the change of ingredient would have on consumers. At that time we received lots of feedback from consumers that the change made it difficult for them, especially those who are vegetarians, to continue to enjoy our products.  We listened to their feedback and reversed the decision immediately.

Q4. Did you consult with consumers about the new message on-pack – is it what they want?

A4. We received lots of feedback from consumers and decided to feature the words 'suitable for vegetarians' and include a 'V' symbol, printed before the best before date on pack.  We feel that this message clearly communicates the suitability of our confectionery to the millions of vegetarians in the UK that enjoy our products.

Q5. Which products include this label?

A5. Some of our leading brands that include this label are Mars bars, Snickers bars, Galaxy and Maltesers. Consumers can visit our consumer care website for a vegetarian product suitability list which is www.marsconsumercare.co.uk or contact us on 0845 0450042.

Q6. But you make lots of other brands – what about the suitability of them?

A6. Brands such as Twix and Bounty and Celebrations are not suitable for vegetarians.  Consumers can visit our consumer care website for a vegetarian product suitability list which is www.marsconsumercare.co.uk or contact us on 0845 0450042.

Q7. I’m a vegetarian – which products can I eat / should I avoid?

A7. Consumers can visit our consumer care website for a vegetarian product suitability list which is www.marsconsumercare.co.uk or contact us on 0845 0450042.