The use of animal-derived materials in porcelain production raises significant ethical questions, particularly in an era increasingly focused on sustainability and animal welfare. Traditional porcelain often incorporates bone ash (from cattle) to enhance durability and translucency, a practice dating back centuries. However, this reliance on animal byproducts conflicts with modern ethical standards, including vegan principles and environmental concerns.

Critics argue that sourcing bone ash supports industrial farming, an industry linked to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and animal cruelty. Additionally, the processing of animal materials consumes energy and resources, potentially offsetting porcelain's perceived eco-friendliness.

Alternatives like plant-based binders or synthetic compounds are emerging, offering comparable quality without ethical compromises. As consumer demand grows for cruelty-free products, porcelain manufacturers face pressure to innovate. The debate ultimately highlights a broader tension between tradition and ethics in craftsmanship, urging the ceramics industry to reconsider its material choices in alignment with contemporary values.