OP is a culinary employee who recently learned that the “vegan” sorbet they serve includes a stabilizer that has whey, making it not fully vegan.
She Doesn’t Want to Keep Lying to Her Customers
OP feels terrible about serving non-vegan sorbet to customers who are vegan, dairy- or gluten-free. OP is unsure about what to do as they are not in a position to inform the customers directly, but they also do not want to continue lying to them.
The Sugar Isn’t Vegan, Either
Additionally, OP recently discovered that the sugar used in all the vegan dishes is not vegan, causing more distress. OP is contemplating whether to inform their boss about the issue but is also scared of potential backlash.
They Are Trying a New Stabilizer
An update later revealed that they are trying a different brand of vegan stabilizer, and they hope to make all sorbets fully vegan soon.
It Might Be a Mistake
Some have jumped to the idea that this could be a simple misunderstanding rather than a deliberate maneuver.
“This may be a mistake that someone high up made, and no one wanted to correct them. It can be pretty easy to mix up vegans and vegetarians.
You Need to Talk to Your Boss
“I’d say talk to your boss. Let them know that you think this was just a typo and you don’t want angry customers.
You wouldn’t be wrong for saying that sorbet is vegetarian rather than vegan. But I really would talk to your boss first before making the point to customers.”
So You Can Clarify: Customers Are Not Being Misled
This is a very measured comment in response to what is most likely a simple error. They are correct in stating that vegan and vegetarian are very often confused. Speaking to their manager, OP will hopefully be able to clarify this issue and ensure that the customers are not being misled.
There May Be More Severe Consequences
However, if OP finds that this is a deliberate mistake, then there will most likely be more severe consequences.
Maybe She Should Find a New Job
Perhaps it would be time for OP to find a new job and report their findings to the appropriate authorities.
Some Online Users Think She Should Tell
A group of online users has suggested that OP should, in fact, inform all of the customers of these potential issues:
“A lot of customers will appreciate that you’re being honest and respectful with them and considering their needs; that’s all good customer service and will get you better reviews and tips, which will benefit you in the long run. Plus, there are laws saying that businesses have to be honest about what they’re putting in food, and saying the sorbet is vegan isn’t honest. So, really, you’re just benefitting everyone here.”
It Might Not Be Good for Career Progression
Although this may not be the soundest advice in terms of career progression, it may be an honorable choice. Telling the customer first before the problem is better understood will guarantee that no one will have to purchase something they do not intend to.
There Will Be Short Term Consequences
This will likely gain the respect of the customers for sure. But there may be some more short-term consequences to telling customers this information without consulting the managers first.
The Business Are a Walking Lawsuit
Although, it may save the business from potential legal issues, as noted in the comment. Should vegans be purchasing non-vegan food due to misinformation, then the business may be walking into a lawsuit.
It’s Irresponsible of Your Boss – Someone Could Get Sick
Another significant point raised is that this is not a dietary lifestyle choice but potentially a health-orientated problem:
“I’m allergic to dairy, and so if I was to eat the vegan Gelato assuming it was dairy-free, I would get sick. Lots of people with dairy and egg allergies eat vegan products under the assumption they wouldn’t carry their allergen. It’s so irresponsible of your boss.”
It Could Cause an Accidental Allergic Reaction
Effectively, this could cause an accidental allergic reaction. If this happens due to the misrepresentation of products, there will be lawsuits to pay. More significantly, people must know what they are putting in their bodies, regardless of their reasoning. It could be religious, vegan/vegetarian, ketogenic, allergic reactions, and a whole host more.
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