It’s a new year, so why not try something new, something vegan? If you live across the pond, no doubt you’ve heard of the annual Veganuary event that takes place in January or seen their cute animal ads.
Launched in the U.K. in 2014, Veganuary is a global charity dedicated to changing public attitudes, while providing information and practical support on making the transition to veganism. The campaign encourages people around the world to try vegan in January.
If you’ve ever entertained the idea, now is the perfect time as a host of international celebrities have shared their favourite vegan meals and recipes in a brand-new e-cookbook. The cookbook is free, to everyone who registers to take part in Veganuary online at www.veganuary.com, and includes fellow Canadians Pamela Anderson’s Gluten-free Pizza, and an Artichoke Salad, Fennel Salad and Blitzed Broccoli Salad from Bryan Adams. Once registered, participants will be sent information, advice and more yummy recipes.
Believe it or not, it’s true: vegans save lives – animal lives of course and perhaps our own human lives. Veganism is one of the most effective choices a person can make to reduce the suffering of animals, help the planet, and improve personal health.
Last year 23,000 people from 142 countries took part in Veganuary worldwide, including almost 1,000 Canadians who ate no animal products in January. The move to meat-free foods in Canada has been extraordinary, with eight per cent now saying they are vegetarian or mostly vegetarian, while another 25 per cent are moving away from meat-centred meals to plant-based recipes and products. This dramatic change has seen stores and restaurants respond with 100 per cent vegan restaurants opening while others have added vegan options or created full vegan menus.
Says Clea Grady, Marketing Manager at Veganuary: “The rise in veganism may be influenced by celebrities but the number one reason that people give for taking part in Veganuary is to protect animals. Farming is a brutal business. Male chicks are killed at a day old because they aren’t able to lay eggs, unwanted calves are shot, and pigs are locked in crates and treated like breeding machines.”
Something to think about before you tuck into your next meal.
Where did the last decade go? As we usher in this new era, there’s a certain comfort in maintaining family traditions year after year.
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