The popularity of plant-based diets reflects a global shift towards healthier living and a conscious move away from animal agriculture. While the benefits are clear, the transition to a plant-based diet can have a few teething problems. Overcoming common stumbling blocks will help you thrive on a long-term plant-based diet. <h2>I'm always hungry!</h2>Part of the solution is understanding calorie density (the number of calories relative to the food’s weight). For example, spinach has 23 calories/100g, whereas tofu contains 144 calories/100g. Many plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, and other water-rich foods tend to be low in caloric density, which means you might need larger portions to feel satiated and to get sufficient calories. Emphasise nutrient-dense, protein-rich options (protein is the most satiating macronutrient) like legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and foods such as tofu, tempeh, and seitan. These foods not only satiate hunger but offer a diverse nutrient profile and sustained energy, making them the cornerstone of a satisfying, nourishing diet.&nbsp; <h2>Am I getting everything I need?</h2>Ensuring you meet all your nutritional needs can be a genuine concern when new to a plant-based diet. The solution to this is knowledge and a balanced plate.&nbsp; Research the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/essential-nutrient-guide-how-to-thrive-in-veganuary-and-beyond" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">nutrients we need</a>, find out where to get them in our diets, and picture your next meal as a blank nutritional canvas. Ensure you paint it with your plant-based proteins, iron-rich greens, omega-3s, essential vitamins and minerals and, of course, any supplementation such as B12.&nbsp; Balancing your plate in this way for at least the first few weeks will ensure you obtain all the necessary nutrients, leaving you with peace of mind that you are not compromising your nutritional needs. When aiming to fulfil your nutritional requirements, it's advisable to track your food intake during the first few weeks, as this practice helps cultivate an intuitive understanding of specific amounts of various foods needed to obtain essential nutrients as well as making sure you’re eating enough calories - <a href="https://cronometer.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Cronometer</a> is a great option. For instance, recognising the quantity of food for particular nutrients and pairing it with another to fulfil additional nutritional needs, and including a brazil nut for daily selenium intake, it’s a valuable tool to gain insights into essential nutrient intake. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723717591/IMG_5188_67c8505a4b.png" alt="Multiple Brazil nuts"> <h2>Boredom strikes again!</h2>Food monotony can be a challenge for new plant-based eaters. The key to this is to embrace diversity on the plate. The world of plant-based eating offers a rich tapestry of flavours, colours, and textures.&nbsp; When I gave up animal produce, I was no longer eating chicken, eggs, beef, fish, and dairy; initially, when serving food, it felt like a restrictive plate when serving food.&nbsp; But, since then, I've tried thousands of new foods, some I never knew existed within the spectrum of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. These diverse food choices are not just joyful for the taste buds but also nourish the gut microbiome. These microorganisms thrive on the variety of plant-based foods you consume, contributing to better digestion, immune system and overall well-being.&nbsp; When you're next in the shops, pick up something new you haven't tried before and test it out at home.&nbsp; There are millions of amazing recipes at your fingertips: follow recipe creators online, try new flavours of foods, cultures and cuisines, and embrace the diversity that our foods and recipes allow. Consider incorporating gradual changes into your meals when transitioning from a meat-heavy diet.&nbsp; Breakfast offers a simple opportunity to embrace a vegan approach, with options like oatmeal. Make subtle substitutions for dinners, such as in the case of chilli. Instead of using minced meat, opt for lentils. The remaining components of the recipe, from spices to beans and tomatoes, are inherently plant-based. These small adjustments can have a significant impact, transforming traditional recipes into delicious and plant-centric alternatives. <h2>The bloat blues</h2>If you are relatively new to plant-based eating, you may encounter temporary bloating as your digestive system adapts to the increased fibre intake.&nbsp; This is usually temporary, as your body adapts to the ‘new normal’ as you gradually introduce fibre-rich foods and adequate hydration. It moves into an adjustment period as the body acclimatises. At this time, patience is key, and before you know it bloating will be a distant memory (hopefully!). <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/dr-alan-desmond-shares-how-to-foster-a-healthy-gut-microbiome" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dr. Alan Desmond</a>, Consultant Gastroenterologist, says, “Take heart, [if you are struggling] because the evidence tells us everything settles down within about four to six weeks. If you are still finding it challenging and you feel that your digestive system isn't reacting too well to the sudden change in your approach to food, then good advice is to take a step back, take a little break, and then come at it gradually.”&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723717718/IMG_5189_e0a4993bc8.png" alt="Dr. Alan Desmond, Consultant Gastroenterologist "> Fibre is crucial for digestive health as it is pivotal in promoting a healthy gut environment while feeding our microbiome. Two different types of fibre are used within the body: soluble fibre helps regulate blood sugar levels and lowers cholesterol, whereas insoluble fibre adds bulk to stools and helps with movement through the digestive tract; both types nourish beneficial bacteria. Plant fibres serve as prebiotics, acting as a food source for the gut microbiota, which are the trillions of microorganisms in our digestive tract.&nbsp; When we consume various plant-based foods rich in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, these fibres reach the colon largely undigested; in the colon, beneficial bacteria within the gut microbiota ferment these fibres.&nbsp; This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids which are required for the integrity of the gut lining, to maintain the gut’s immune system, and to protect against pathogens.&nbsp; The fermentation of fibres by gut bacteria helps maintain a balanced microbial community. It promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, which contribute to a healthy gut environment. <h2>Plant-based living on a budget</h2>A common misconception is that plant-based diets are inherently expensive. While it’s true that certain processed vegan products such as your mock meats or speciality plant-based desserts may be pricey, the heart of the plant-based diet lies in whole, unprocessed foods, which happen to be some of the most economical options available. A stroll through the fruit and vegetable aisle reveals various affordable, nutrient-packed choices. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains are often considerably cheaper than the processed or animal-based counterparts. Aisles featuring beans, lentils, and tofu provide budget-friendly protein for a fraction of the price.&nbsp; Choosing whole plant-based foods benefits the body and the wallet; wholesome plant-based food doesn't have to break the bank. Thriving on and sustaining a plant-based diet for the long term is achievable and a rewarding journey.&nbsp; Once you travel through the initial obstacles, you set the stage for a lifelong plant-based journey promising a healthier you and a healthier planet, while encompassing well-being for the lives surrounding us on this eco-friendly path. Explore the next level of understanding by delving into the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/essential-nutrient-guide-how-to-thrive-in-veganuary-and-beyond" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">essential nutrients</a> that form the backbone of our plant-based diets, and deep-dive into essential <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-to-get-b12-as-a-vegan-why-is-it-essential" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">B12</a>.

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Optimise plant-based success with these 5 nutritional tips

Hong Kong is well known for its culinary scene, but as a vegan, I had some reservations before my trip. The prevalence of <a href="https://www.happycow.net/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong_island" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">HappyCow</a> green pins did provide some reassurance, but it wasn’t until my visit that I accepted I had nothing to worry about. In fact, its plant-based community delivered, and far exceeded, my expectations. For those not familiar with HappyCow, it is a community-supported app that maps vegan, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly eateries and businesses. The green pins represent the 100% vegan establishments and is a must for food planning when travelling. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723409357/Image_1_25_8fa90096e3.png" alt="Image 1(25).png"> <h2>Reminiscent of my youth</h2>As a child, I fondly remember my trips to Chinatown and my predilection for sui mai and char siu bao. I was always excited to order both these dishes and I was able to rekindle this emotion at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veggiekingdomhk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veggie Kingdom</a>. Here, the sui mai is mushroom-based, while the sweet, fluffy, steamed bao’s are filled with BBQ veggie ‘pork.’ They were perfect, as were the many other dishes I tried, including the turnip cake, crispy eggplant, and rice noodle rolls. I’d planned a lunchtime visit, as this is when they serve dim sum, and I was fortunate enough to get a table. It is very popular with locals so do try and book in advance. You will not be disappointed. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723409429/Image_2_12_dbe7961386.png" alt="Steamed sui mai from Veggie Kingdom, Hong Kong."> <h2>The quirkiest of restaurant concepts&nbsp;</h2>If a 1950s American-themed vegan restaurant in Asia sounds appealing, then <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veggie_4love/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Veggie 4 Love</a> is for you. The restaurant has a vintage look and feel and is packed full of period appropriate nick-nacks. A great touch was the old-style TV that loops black and white episodes of the US sitcom <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Love_Lucy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">I Love Lucy</a>.&nbsp; It is located on the 10th floor of a high-rise building, so isn’t the easiest place to find. Though this set-up is not unusual for this densely populated city. Given the US diner concept, burgers are on the menu, but I opted for more local cuisine: crispy Peking ‘duck’ pancakes and laksa. Both delicious. The showstopper though, was their molten chocolate cake with cream and ice cream. Dark, sweet and gooey. Absolutely divine. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723409500/Image_3_3_4e9408f850.png" alt="Molten chocolate cake with cream and ice cream from Veggie 4 Love, Hong Kong."> <h2>My first ever try of lion’s mane mushroom</h2>I love mushrooms and tend to gravitate to them if listed on a menu. It’s a weakness. What grabbed my attention at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/years.hk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Be With Years</a> was their lion’s mane curry. I’ve seen this mushroom feature in many online recipes but had yet to try it. It was chunky and tender, working perfectly with the thick curry sauce and accompanying veg, pickles, and appetisers. The bento box was presented on a tray in bowls and was as flavoursome as it was aesthetically pleasing.&nbsp; Their Earl Grey lemon almond tart followed this. With a subtle-tasting, slightly sweet layer sandwiched between a crispy pastry base and fluffy cream topping, I could have easily eaten another slice, or three.&nbsp; This casual dining concept now has four locations across the city, all with slightly different menus. However, the business is more than food. With corporate social responsibility at its core it is a complete lifestyle brand selling everything from houseware to clothing, and <a href="https://www.yearshk.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">much more</a>. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723409584/Image_4_3_cc7789222a.png" alt="Lion’s mane bento box from Be With Years, Hong Kong."> <h2>Noodle and coconut curry heaven</h2>Top-rated on Happy Cow, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rootvegan.hk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Root Vegan</a> was on my hit list while in the city. After a tour of the nearby <a href="https://www.taikwun.hk/en/taikwun/heritage_conservation/buildings" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Tai Kwun</a> heritage site, it was the perfect spot for a mid-afternoon recharge.&nbsp; I find it hard to resist a coconut curry noodle dish, so their bestseller, Khao Soi Northern Thai Curry Noodle, was impossible to say no to. I could have returned again and again to enjoy this spicy soup, topped with fried wonton skins, veg, and soya drumsticks.&nbsp; I also ordered appetisers, soup, and a slice of blueberry cheesecake. All dishes were presented as if they’d been lifted from a page in a cookbook, and they tasted as good as they looked. Their menu is extensive and varied; I only regret that I didn’t try more of their dishes. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723409654/Image_5_1_e80d0e10ee.png" alt="Noodles, vegan drumsticks, and appetisers from Root Vegan, Hong Kong."> <h2>A taste of Europe</h2>After nearly a week in the city, I craved an all-day breakfast, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lncoffeehk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">LN Coffee</a> came to the rescue. The “LN” stands for loving nature and this vegan bakery has a wide selection of Western and Asian animal-friendly dishes.&nbsp; The breakfast included the typical scrambled bean curd, mushrooms, beans and tomato. It really hit the spot.&nbsp; While flicking through the menu, their apple and cinnamon French toast caught my eye. I ordered and was expecting a relatively small portion, but it was almost the size of the many high-rise buildings in the city. I powered through and left satiated to the point of bursting. It gets five stars from me. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723409772/Image_6_ca62d04b46.jpg" alt="French toast from LN Coffee, Hong Kong."> <h2>My sushi obsession continues</h2>As proudly declared in my recent <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/cape-town-s-table-mountain-and-tables-topped-with-vegan-delights" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Cape Town article</a>, I am obsessed with sushi. Fortunately, close to where I was staying was a little café with the cutest courtyard for alfresco dining. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wanaka.hk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Wanaka</a> can be found just behind the famous and historic Grade I listed building, the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_House_(Hong_Kong)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Blue House</a>.&nbsp; A sushi bowl on their menu promised a stacked ‘salmon’ sushi drenched in homemade Thousand Island dressing and fresh mango chunks. It was healthy, refreshing, and super tasty. I couldn’t help myself, so I ordered the lasagna that was layered with homemade vegan mozzarella cheese, eggplant, sweet bell pepper, olives, and courgette. The accompanying pesto sauce simply elevated it further. Both were mouthwatering. Only after my visit did I realise it was part of the Years group where I’d tried the lion’s mane. I’m really impressed with what they are doing in Hong Kong. If they ever come to London, I’ll be first in the queue. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1723409866/Image_7_c638746f75.png" alt="Sushi bowl and lasagna from Wanaka, Hong Kong."> There were many more restaurants I didn’t get to try and I’m sure they would have been equally life changing. With a little luck, I’ll get to return one day.﻿ For other international cities with great plant-based options you may be interested in the best vegan spots to be found in <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/7-best-vegan-spots-in-dallas-a-local-s-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dallas</a> or the best vegan eateries in <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/7-best-vegan-eateries-in-sydney-the-insider-s-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sydney</a>.

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A multitude of Hong Kong highlights for vegan diners

Co-Founders of Word Forest, Simon West and Tracey West, sitting on a beach smiling

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Combating the climate emergency with Word Forest

For many, veganism is more than just a dietary choice, but also a form of political activism that challenges the exploitation and oppression of sentient beings. Let’s explore how veganism can be seen as an unconventional form of political participation. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Unconventional political participation</h2>Unconventional political participation refers to how citizens can express their opinions and influence public policies without relying on traditional channels such as voting, joining parties or contacting representatives. Unconventional political participation includes protests, boycotts, petitions, civil disobedience, online activism, and <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1467-9477.12204" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">political consumerism</a>. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">How is veganism a form of political consumerism?</h2>Political consumerism uses one's purchasing power to support or oppose certain causes, products or companies. For instance, buying fair trade coffee, avoiding sweatshop clothing or boycotting fossil fuels are forms of political consumerism. Political consumerism can also involve lifestyle choices that reflect one's values and beliefs. Veganism can be seen as a form of political consumerism because it involves boycotting the products and practices of animal exploitation. By doing so, vegans aim to reduce the demand for animal products, challenge the norms and habits of animal consumption and raise awareness about the plight of animals. Vegans also hope to influence the supply side of the market by creating a demand for plant-based alternatives and encouraging companies to adopt more ethical and sustainable practices. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Unconventional political participation</h2>Political scientist Dr. <a href="https://journals-sagepub-com.ezproxy.lib.bbk.ac.uk/doi/10.1177/0032321720930179" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Deborah Kalte</a>, states that “Veganism is particularly viewed as an unconventional form of political participation, as it is conducted to address ethical concerns and to change market practices.” Veganism is unconventional because it addresses a topic often neglected or marginalised in mainstream politics: the rights and interests of non-human animals.&nbsp; Animal issues are rarely on the political agenda, and when they are, they are often framed in terms of human interests, such as food safety, public health or environmental protection (important <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/international-day-of-conscience-ethical-veganism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">topics</a>, but ignore the reality that animal rights are human rights, as many people suffer from working in animal agriculture). Animal issues are also subject to powerful lobbying from the animal industry, which often influences the policies and regulations that affect animals. Veganism challenges this status quo by bringing animal issues to the forefront of public debate by advocating for the radical transformation of human-animal relations. Veganism questions the dominant assumptions and values that justify animal exploitation and proposes a new ethical framework that recognises the intrinsic worth and dignity of all sentient beings. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Implications and challenges of political veganism?</h2>For vegans, political veganism can be a source of empowerment, identity, and community, and a way of expressing one's values, beliefs, and emotions constructively and creatively.&nbsp; However, political veganism can entail difficulties, such as social stigma, isolation, frustration, and often subject to ‘<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/50248907_Vegaphobia_Derogatory_discourses_of_veganism_and_the_reproduction_of_speciesism_in_UK_national_newspapers" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">vegaphobia</a>.’ Vegans may face hostility, ridicule, or indifference from family, friends, colleagues, or strangers who do not share or understand their views.&nbsp; They may also struggle with finding vegan products or services in a predominantly non-vegan society. Moreover, they may encounter dilemmas or trade-offs when their vegan principles clash with other personal or social interests or values. However, as the vegan community grows, more vegans find supportive networks, and they, in turn, support others.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">What did a study in Switzerland reveal on vegan political engagement?&nbsp;</h2>Dr. Deborah Kalte studied a sample of <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342316202_Political_Veganism_An_Empirical_Analysis_of_Vegans'_Motives_Aims_and_Political_Engagement" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">648 vegans</a> in Switzerland. The study demonstrated that a vast majority of vegans are politically motivated and aim to induce change in society at large. They are highly engaged in a broad variety of political activities. Also, politically motivated vegans live the vegan lifestyle more strictly and are more politically active than vegans motivated by personal concerns. Veganism as a form of political activism can challenge and transform the oppressive systems that exploit animals, humans, and the environment. For many, veganism is not merely about self-improvement but collective action and social change; it operates through the market and civil society, using individual and collective actions.&nbsp; Get inspired by vegan activist <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/in-conversation-with-matthew-glover-investing-in-a-vegan-future" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Matthew Glover</a> and check out unique approaches to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/unique-uk-animal-rights-activism-approaches" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">animal rights activism</a>.

Protestors holding yellow and black signs which read ‘No More Factory Farms’

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How veganism is an unconventional form of political participation

Gone are the days when the most a vegan could hope for when looking for a sweet fix was a flapjack or two at a random health food shop. There is nothing wrong with vegan flapjacks, but in 2024, vegans are spoilt for choice with easy and readily available vegan products all over the UK. So, with that said, here are some of my favourite grab-and-go sweet treats in Central London: <h2>Crosstown, Broadwick Street, Soho</h2>For a decadent doughnut experience, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/crosstown" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Crosstown</a> is the doughnut stop of choice. They created their own signature sourdough and veganised it a few years later. The dough is rolled by hand and all their toppings and fillings are made from scratch in their premises.&nbsp; Crosstown has many locations across London, all catering to vegans, but their outlet on Picton Place, Marylebone, offers a vegan-only menu. It is worth noting that coffee, cookies, and ice cream are also available. Although half their range is now vegan, I highly recommend their dark chocolate truffle doughnut with a dark chocolate ganache and indulgent dark chocolate truffle filling.&nbsp; Their lime &amp; coconut doughnut is also definitely worth a go. The dough is greened with spirulina and the doughnut is filled with a generous dose of coconut custard, which is then topped off with a zesty lime glaze and vanilla crumble topping. Doughnut decadence does not get any better than Crosstown’s doughnuts (an example is pictured above). <h2>Cream Dream, Bedford Street, Covent Garden</h2>This Ukrainian vegan pastry café is easy to spot with its bright pink décor and flower-draped exterior. Not only is everything at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cream.dream_london/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Cream Dream</a> plant-based, but it is gluten- and processed sugar-free too. It truly is indulgence without the guilt.&nbsp; Their cakes are absolutely stunning and you’re sure to be impressed. They rotate the options and add new creations and seasonal specials, so expect something different each time you go.&nbsp; With masterpieces crafted to look like their inspiration; for example, a jam jar, a pumpkin and a lemon, you may think it’s a shame to cut into them. Once you do, you will be won over by the unusual fillings and tantalising taste. They also offer tarts and pastries if you are in the mood for something less extravagant. You can also grab a savoury dish and combine it with coffee or a traditional Ukrainian tea. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1721989659/Image_1_23_9b2db8e1e0.png" alt="Vegan lemon cake from Cream Dream, Covent Garden"> <h2>Café de Nata, Old Compton Street, Soho</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/cafedenata" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Café de Nata</a> is a UK-based artisan bakery specialising in Portuguese custard tarts. They currently have locations in Hammersmith, South Kensington, and Camden.&nbsp; They introduced their VegaNata (pictured below) in early 2021, and it has been a firm favourite ever since. The custard is soya-based, creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness; when fresh the pastry is flaky and crispy, and magic happens as the custard and pastry combine into a perfect taste sensation. This is one tartlet that carries universal popularity and approval. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1721989733/Image_2_10_200b0679d2.png" alt="VegaNata’ from Café de Nata, Soho"><h2> </h2><h2>Floozie, The Market Building, Covent Garden</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/flooziecookies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Floozie Cookies</a> is a sweet spot which won’t disappoint. Floozie offers up a choice of stuffed cookies - all of which are vegan. This business is a passion project by a pastry chef who has worked in several high-end hotels and has now set their sights on world cookie domination. Their chocolate chunk is highly recommended. This cookie is warm, crisp, and chewy with a soft, gooey chocolate centre and topping. It‘s borderline heavenly, and you’re likely to end up with the odd splodge of melted chocolate on your fingers, so take a napkin when offered. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1721989797/Image_3_2_aa49f056ef.png" alt="Vegan chocolate cookies with gooey centre from Floozie Cookies."><h2> </h2><h2>Doughnut Time, Shaftesbury Ave, Leicester Square/Soho</h2>If you’re looking for a brassy, down-to-earth doughnut, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/doughnuttime_uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Doughnut Time</a> is your jam. These larger-than-average doughnuts are hand-crafted in small batches, and with a number of locations across London you can be sure there are fresh options waiting for you to choose from. They have a variety of vegan options and while their chocolate offerings are hard to refuse, their Gordon Jamsay (pictured below) is well worth the sacrifice. This pink-coated ring doughnut is topped with jam, whipped buttercream, and a heart-holed jammie dodger. The dough is soft, and the jam, buttercream and biscuit make for a naughty combination. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1721989865/Image_4_2_ff8167d7d6.png" alt="‘Gordon Jamsay’ vegan doughnut from Doughnut Time"> Whatever treat you decide to grab, enjoy.&nbsp;﻿ For more London-based savoury food options, you may be interested in a hidden gem for pizza lovers, such as <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/v-izza-london-s-hidden-gem-for-vegan-pizza" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">V-izza</a>, or some must-try <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/must-try-pan-asian-cuisine-in-london" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pan Asian</a> spots.

 Pink vegan doughnut with crumble topping from Crosstown, Soho

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5 must-try places to grab a sweet treat in Central London

Pea protein is cropping up in a growing number of places. It’s made from yellow peas, not the ubiquitous green peas we all know.&nbsp; It’s a useful option for those with hypersensitivities to the more widely researched soy (which, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33599941/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">for good reason</a>, is often the go-to plant-based protein source).&nbsp; Unlike soy, pea protein is not technically a ‘complete protein,’ but this doesn’t seem to matter. Plant-based bodybuilders are increasingly turning to pea protein, including Simon Hill who mentioned on The Proof that he often has a post-gym pea protein shake.&nbsp; Even though whey protein is a ‘complete protein,’ and has higher leucine content than pea protein, study findings point towards pea protein matching whey protein.&nbsp; One <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">study</a> found no difference in muscle thickness between those who had 50g (2x 25g servings) whey or pea protein daily for 12 weeks whilst resistance training. The study authors conclude: “Since no difference was obtained between the two groups, vegetable pea proteins could be used as an alternative to whey-based dietary products.” Another <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916524004726" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">study</a> found whey and pea protein were equally as effective in boosting MPS (muscle protein synthesis) rates in older men. This was confirmed by one of the study authors, Dr. Stuart Phillips, who <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/stuartmphillips_the-effects-of-whey-pea-and-collagen-protein-activity-7196881836533338112-WKA8?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_ios" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">reported the findings</a> to his ~10K LinkedIn followers. If you want maximal ‘gains,’ you do not need to have any animal products - simply have <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28698222/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">~1.6g/kg protein daily</a>, do resistance exercise training, and get good sleep. (It’s simple, not necessarily easy!) For more content like this, check out our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/category/health-and-wellbeing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">health &amp; wellbeing</a> section.

Man flexing his muscles in his arms and back

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Watch out whey, pea protein is coming for your crown

Upon arriving in Cape Town you will be struck by the magnificence of the iconic Table Mountain. For me, as a foodie, it was not the only table of interest in this picturesque city. In fact, before travelling I always check <a href="https://www.happycow.net/europe/scotland/inverness/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">HappyCow</a> way before planning what tourist attractions to add to my to-do list. <h2>From flight to food</h2>It was a long overnight flight and as I disembarked the plane I was already planning my first food stop. So, after my hotel check-in I went straight to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/romeoandvero" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Romeo &amp; Vero</a>. This ‘Vegan Butcherie’ lived up to its name. With a menu packed full of mushroom-based meat alternatives it was almost impossible to choose. After much deliberation, my friend and I opted for the ‘ribs’ and ‘chicken.’ Both came with perfectly seasoned homecooked chips and a side salad. They were delicious and almost too realistic - cutting into the breaded drumsticks is a moment I’ll never forget. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1720617163/Image_1_22_9c67e1eec1.png" alt="‘Chicken’ drumsticks (vegan equivalent) from Romeo &amp; Vero ‘Vegan Butcherie,’ Cape Town, South Africa"> <h2>Next on the list… wine</h2>Vineyards surround Cape Town, so a visit to one felt mandatory. We headed east to Stellenbosch to visit <a href="https://www.instagram.com/spierwinefarm/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Spier</a>, a working winery and vineyard. It is easy to see why it was voted one of the 100 World's Best Vineyards in 2021, and Editor's Choice - Winery of the Year 2022. Just a 30-minute drive away, a day trip is perfectly doable. This was our plan, although the luxurious onsite hotel makes overnight stays easy if you want to escape the city for an extended period. We arrived early, allowing us to wander the grounds and soak up the sun. I welcomed the vitamin D boost after a dark winter in London. There were historic buildings and curious art sculptures dotted about to peruse and admire.&nbsp; It was soon time for wine tasting. We enthusiastically followed the directions to where we needed to be and were warmly greeted by the host. She escorted us to our table on the veranda where we enjoyed the cooling breeze and shade from the wicker canopy.&nbsp; The knowledgeable, enthusiastic sommelier reassured us their wines were vegan, so we opted for the Spier tasting selection. To accompany the alcohol, we also ordered the garden bowl. This tasty selection of bread, crudites, and lentil hummus are also labelled vegan-friendly on their website. The combination of the weather, company, food and wine made it one of my most enjoyable experiences. Do plan to go if you can, but make sure you book in advance, giving them at least 48 hours’ notice. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1720617236/Image_2_9_439ff0c619.png" alt="Three upright bottles of vegan wine on a wooden table from Spier Wines’ tasting selection, Stellenbosch, South Africa"><h2> </h2><h2>An early start</h2>The surrounding peaks have several trail options, but <a href="https://hikelionshead.co.za/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Lion's Head</a> gets the most attention. It is a reasonable 5.5km round trip and takes about 1.5 hours to hike to the top, and about an hour to return. It is mostly a steady incline, but can get quite challenging at times. On the most difficult route, there are even ladders and chains to assist. (These were the most fun parts for me.)&nbsp;The objective was to reach the summit in time for sunrise. At the car drop-off point, I could already see specks of lights flicking on the mountainside. These super-early starters were well-prepared with their headlamps. I started my ascent just as dawn began to break. As I circled the elevation I was able to view the city in all its glory. Both it and I basked in the sun's golden glow as it appeared in the distant horizon. I was told it was a very popular activity for first dates, and I can see why. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1720617304/Image_3_1_190ff0a785.png" alt="View of Lion’s Head Peak at sunrise, Cape Town, South Africa"> <h2>Post-trek sustenance</h2>Some are indifferent to doughnuts, but not me. This meant that I had a keen eye on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/grumpyandrunt" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Grumpy &amp; Runt</a> and was unwilling to leave the city without stopping by. This ‘Little Deli &amp; Donuts’ heaven had a display cabinet full of sweet treats. I gravitated to the custard-filled doughnut which I ordered alongside a cheese and mushroom toastie and a hot chocolate. I’ve never been more satisfied.&nbsp; Sadly, their recent Instagram posts state that they have ceased trading. While the exact reasons are unknown it does present a reminder for us to support vegan businesses as much as we can. It would be a real shame if ethical businesses like these disappeared from our highstreets. Grumpy &amp; Runt do suggest a comeback so I’m crossing everything that they make a triumphant return. Please do show them some love if they do. <h2>Beach day… and night</h2>Camps Bay is to the southwest of the city. This long stretch of beach and natural rock swimming pool is ideal for a day of swimming and sunbathing. There is lots to keep you entertained with a long promenade of bars, a mall, and a theatre. The only vegan eatery in this neighbourhood is <a href="https://www.plantcafe.co.za/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Plant Cafe</a>. Open all day, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with plenty of desserts to satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. I arrived in the evening, ordered a burger and pastry, and sat on the balcony watching the sunset over the ocean. It was a glorious end to a carb-filled day. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1720617374/Image_4_1_18cd9ad4fc.png" alt="Sunset at Camps Bay (suburb of Cape Town, South Africa)"> <h2>A sushi obsession</h2>When I checked out local eateries, I was immediately drawn to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/plushiplatters?igsh=NDdscHF6eDVpeDZ6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Plushi</a>. This HappyCow top-rated restaurant has some stiff competition given my recent sushi experiences in <a href="https://www.instagram.com/legumisushi/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Lisbon</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/123vegan_w1/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">London</a>. And you know what, I think it might have been the best I’ve had. Their menu is extensive and includes spring rolls, poke bowls, and dumplings.&nbsp; I was keen to try every sushi menu item, so I did not hold back. After all, I was on holiday. It was immaculately presented and every piece tasted sublime. The highlights were definitely the Salmoon Rose (carrot salmon and avocado, topped with vegan mayo and Plushi Caviaar) and the Crab Salad Inari (topped with jackfruit 'crab' salad, celery, red onion and spring onions).&nbsp; A bonus was the beetroot brownie. Chocolatey and healthy, I’m sure. I was so full, though, I saved the brownie for breakfast the next morning - an optimal way to start the day. <h2>Heading south</h2>For some of the most spectacular ocean views, a car trip along the coast of the national park, heading to the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/capepointsa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Cape Point</a> lighthouse, is a must. You can jump on a Flying Dutchman funicular at the car park if you want to spare yourself the uphill trek. However you decide to get there, you won’t be disappointed. From this elevated vantage point, you can look out at the vastness of the Atlantic and Indian oceans. Simply breathtaking. As you travel south, make sure to stop at Boulders Beach to visit the <a href="https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table-mountain/what-to-do/attractions/boulders-penguin-colony" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Boulders Penguin Colony</a>. This sandy beach area is home to a free-living colony of African penguins. I stumbled across several as I clambered under and over the various boulders but took care to keep a respectable distance. Boardwalks have been constructed to ensure people are able to view these adorable animals without encroaching on their home. It was a joy given penguins are my second favourite animal. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1720617481/Image_5_ce41ade080.png" alt="African penguins lounging on boulders, Boulders Penguin Colony, Simons Town, South Africa"> <h2>The best till last</h2>I saved <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tablemountainca" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Table Mountain</a> for the last day. Given I’d already hiked Lion’s Head, I opted for the easier option: the cable car. You have to purchase your tickets in advance and at busy times, you can expect to queue.&nbsp; Table Mountain is well known for its ‘tablecloth’ of clouds. These are often draped over its plateau, which I was confronted with upon arrival. This meant no queues and quick access to the cable car. It felt like a win.&nbsp; As the car glided up the side of the mountain it soon hit the bank of clouds, obscuring the view. The mountain top is a rocky nature reserve with dedicated pathways for walkers. As I strolled along these paths, I recalled the movies I’d watched with eerie scenes of characters walking through the mist of the Yorkshire moors. It made it feel more like an adventure.&nbsp; I was also fortunate that the cloud cleared before descending, sot I got to view the cityscape from a different vantage point and it was stunning. I couldn’t have asked for a better end to my trip. <h2>No shortage of vegan eateries</h2>You can be certain you will not leave Cape Town hungry. There were many other restaurants and cafés I tried. It would be irresponsible of me if I didn’t acknowledge them as they were all special in their own plant-based way. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bambooplantpower?igsh=MWFkeDNsZGRwemFsYQ==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">BamBoo Plant Power</a> is on a mission to help their community eat better. With a wide selection of plant-based toasties, bowls and many mains, it is certainly doing that.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theconsciouskitchenza/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Conscious Kitchen</a> focuses on making healthier and eco-friendly choices available. The Mean Greens juice and smoked ‘salmon’ &amp; cream cheese bagel certainly ticked those boxes.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/okjacafe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Okja</a> is a bakery serving delicious coffee using their own branded soya milk. They specialise in pastries, and their frangipane swirl and choc hazelnut twist were too difficult for me to resist.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1720617582/Image_6_2e827af7c4.png" alt="Frangipane swirl from Okja, Camps Bay, South Africa"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thali_capetown/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Thali</a> was the only non-vegan restaurant I ate at, but they are still worthy of a mention. This contemporary Indian eatery, with its industrial décor, has a set vegan menu that is beautifully curated. Go hungry and expect a bit of heat from their dishes.&nbsp; If you are a traveller and a foodie you might be interested in exploring what we discovered in the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/surprising-vegan-finds-in-the-scottish-highlands" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Scottish Highlands</a>, or the best vegan spots across the pond in <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/7-best-vegan-spots-in-dallas-a-local-s-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Dallas</a>.

Table Mountain behind Port of Cape Town, South Africa 

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Cape Town’s Table Mountain and tables topped with vegan delights

Joe Hill, co-founder of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/oneplanetpizza?igsh=bzZ4Z24wcjhyZzhw" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">One Planet Pizza</a>, has an ever-growing influence in the plant-based community and even appeared as a vegan judge in an episode of The Apprentice. In 2022, <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/mike-hill-co-founder-of-one-planet-pizza-pizza-with-purpose" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">we interviewed </a>the other co-founder, Mike Hill. Mike suggested we speak to his son, Joe, to hear his side, so this chat feels long overdue. Without further ado, let’s get doughing!&nbsp; V-Land UK (V-L): What inspired you to transition from vegetarian to vegan in 2014? Joe Hill (JH): I went veggie from a young age, having always been obsessed with wildlife shows on TV and always loving animals. Ace Ventura was my fictional childhood hero! I didn’t realise how horrific and cruel the dairy and egg industries were and how I was still causing harm to innocent animals until I watched Cowspiracy at University. I realised being veggie wasn’t aligned with my moral compass. That’s when I decided to go fully vegan and never turn back.&nbsp; I’ve been a vegan for almost a decade and have been lucky enough to make a career out of promoting plant-based food to the masses! V-L: One Planet Pizza is on track to surpass 1 million pizzas sold by the end of 2024. You must’ve shown real grit and determination to get to this stage.&nbsp;JH: We feel hugely proud to have survived so many challenges over the years, from the pandemic to the energy crisis, and emerge stronger than ever! It has always been our mission to get as many people eating vegan pizza as possible, and this milestone keeps pushing us forward. I’d love to know how many animals we’ve saved - here’s to saving many more and showing people that you don’t need to compromise to eat plant-based! V-L: Do you concur with your Dad that you work well together and are an effective team? Would you recommend others go into business with family members?&nbsp; JH: I would definitely recommend taking a personality test with whoever you plan on going into business with. We did this years ago and found that our personality types were very well-suited and complementary. It’s a really useful practice to help you figure out if you have a good chance of getting on!&nbsp; Another thing that helps is that we are, and always have been, 100% mission-aligned. By that I mean we both have the exact same end goal in mind: sell as many vegan pizzas as possible and build Europe’s most popular vegan pizza brand. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1718905242/Image_1_95_pic_3_9cc19b6e02.png" alt="Co-founders of One Planet Pizza, Joe Hill and Mike Hill, standing next to one another and smiling"> V-L: How do you appeal to the wider audience (not just vegans)? And do you feel doing so is essential for plant-based brands? JH: Most of our pizzas are now bought by non-vegans (flexitarians and open omnivores). If you want to build a genuinely scalable vegan brand, this is key.&nbsp; We appeal to non-vegans by making sure we always understand: 1. Who they are; 2. Why they buy into this category; 3. How we can best meet their needs.&nbsp; For example, most flexitarians are now coming into plant-based for the perceived health benefits. We try to win over these shoppers by having a clear and concise callout on the pack: “30% less fat than a meat and dairy pizza.” Whilst, of course, making sure we deliver on taste first and price a close second. It’s really important now for vegan brands to understand which camp they fall into: meat and dairy mimics or wholefoods / less processed alternatives. Both serve different needs and have slightly different customer bases. It’s tempting to try to appeal to everyone with too many USPs. For us, we now keep to the same hierarchy of USPs: 1. Taste / quality (sourdough); 2. Health benefits (lower fat / plant-based); 3. Environmental benefits.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; My advice is to be very clear on your top 2-3 USPs and pack callouts, and make sure they appeal to your customer base / target audience.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; V-L: How did you move from finding public speaking terrifying to offering your services as a guest speaker? Does everyone have the potential to become a good public speaker?&nbsp; JH: I think 99.9% of people find it terrifying and avoid it like the plague.&nbsp; I always knew that building a brand on a budget would involve putting myself out there and getting in front of the camera. Doing this from day one was scary, but has now really paid off. After years of embarrassing practice and making tons of mistakes, I’m now comfortable with public speaking.&nbsp; It’s all about consistent practice over time, getting comfortable talking from your heart and not notes, and establishing an emotional connection with your audience. And an easy way to make a connection is to share something personal from your journey and how you overcame it / learnt from it. Or finding a way of sharing an experience that most people have gone through at some point. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1718905015/Image_2_27_pic_2_50071875c7.png" alt="One Planet Pizza co-founder, Joe Hill, interacting with two chaps at an exhibition"> V-L: You’ve amassed quite a following on LinkedIn. What words of wisdom would you give to people hoping to grow their network and influence on LinkedIn?&nbsp; JH: First, ask yourself and be clear on what it is you want to achieve. I have always wanted to grow my own personal brand to complement One Planet Pizza and establish myself as a leading voice in my sector. My top three pieces of advice are: 1. Follow and engage with people you admire and who are doing really well on LinkedIn. Follow them for inspiration and ideas for your content. 2. Get posting at least three days a week. Don’t overthink this and stick to what interests you the most / your sector. 3. Create your strategy and be disciplined - a big part of my weekly hours on LinkedIn are dedicated to engaging and supporting content from other people in my network. I do this for a minimum of 2-3 hours per week to help support others and strengthen these connections. V-L: Congratulations on your appearance on The Apprentice. How did you find the experience? JH: Great fun! The filming is as manic and rushed as it looks on the TV. I think they do this to keep pressure on the contestants. We had a great time as vegan judges, getting to be the faces of the industry and promote great-tasting plant-based cheeses. The contestant went for some pretty wild flavours, but ours still tasted great and we had fun being pitched to by the contestants and seeing behind the scenes! V-L: If you were to distil your learnings over the past eight years into some top tips for up-and-coming plant-based brands to stand out and differentiate themselves, what would you say?&nbsp; JH: 1. Work hard and laugh harder!Over the past eight years, Mike and I have learnt that there is a positive correlation between having fun and success. Building a business is tough. The chance of success is small and can take many years of hard work. The quicker you can learn to make fun of yourself and create a culture built on having a laugh, the easier it’ll be to hit your goal. Plus, this energy is infectious and will lift up everyone around you. People want to spend time and be near those having the most fun! 2. Become irreplaceable!&nbsp;Start building your own network and community right away. Become a key person of influence by focusing on your own industry or sector and adding value wherever you possibly can. Share both facts and opinions and speak up for what you believe in and who you admire and look up to. Harness your voice and stay true to your values, goals, and overall purpose. 3. Be kind and give back!&nbsp;Create a positive support loop within your own sector, so you all win together! The more you can help and support others the more you will find others helping you in return. Not only will this make you feel great and give you purpose, it’ll also help you become a key person of influence within your industry.&nbsp; 4. Become a universal adaptor!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With your mission and purpose acting as your rudder, become an expert at changing course and reacting to whatever comes your way. Building a business is largely unpredictable and to survive you need to have unlimited grit. Get out there and try, fail, learn, test, repeat, and just keep moving forward every day. Constantly go back to your ‘why,’ your ‘purpose,’ and use this to guide and strengthen your attitude toward work. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1718904960/Image_3_7_pic_1_20f540fd27.png" alt="One Planet Pizza’s ‘Tex Mex’ vegan pizza, cut into slices on a counter"> V-L: Where do you hope One Planet Pizza (and yourself) will be in five years time? JH: Mike hopes to be enjoying early retirement, renting our e-bikes and making his own olive oil in Greece! I plan to run One Planet Pizza, become the Ben &amp; Jerry’s of the pizza world, and launch into new countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our mission is to be sold in all four major UK supermarket chains, expanding across Europe and into America, launching new and exciting flavours that the world has never seen before. Frozen cheeseburger pizzas or Four Cheeze calzones, anyone? Sounds good to us! Interested in hearing more about Mike? Check out our 2022 chat: <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/mike-hill-co-founder-of-one-planet-pizza-pizza-with-purpose" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mike Hill, co-founder of One Planet Pizza: Pizza with purpose</a>.

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Joe Hill: Building a community bite by bite and top tips for success


In November 1944, <a href="https://time.com/3958070/history-of-veganism/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Donald Watson</a> announced that because vegetarians ate dairy and eggs, the Vegan Society would create a new term called ‘vegan,’ taking the beginning and symbolising the end of vegetarian. The new term was issued in his new <a href="https://www.vegansociety.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Vegan Society</a> newsletter. They recognised that a vegan lifestyle protected people from tainted food - such as tuberculosis, which was <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/environment-and-conservation/2021/01/badgers-cattle-and-scapegoats-is-controversial-science-putting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">in 40% of Britain’s dairy cows</a> by the 1930s, as well as protecting animals.&nbsp; Veganism is more than a trendy fad. It is a movement based on compassion, sustainability, and a desire for a healthier, more ethical world. While veganism, as we know it today, is a relatively new term, evidence suggests that ancient humans may have been predominantly vegan.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Ancient history</h2>According to archaeologist Dr. Richard Leakey, our prehistoric ancestors started off on a plant-based diet. He’s quoted in the <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/vegan-diet-history-veganism-plants-b2153951.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Independent</a> saying that: “You can’t tear flesh by hand, you can’t tear hide by hand, and we wouldn’t have been able to deal with the food sources that required those large canines”.&nbsp; This Independent article goes on to state that: “This theory suggests we turned to animal flesh out of necessity when there were shortages of our nut, seed, and wild cereal staples.&nbsp;Hominins are considered to be opportunistic scavengers of meat where they could find it while relying on plant-based diets.” Anthropologists and archaeologists have long debated what our early human ancestors ate. <a href="https://www.inverse.com/article/31625-human-evolution-meat-eating-vegan-africa-grassland-hunting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Some researchers argue that early humans were opportunistic omnivores, others suggest they were primarily plant-based eaters</a>. Evidence for a vegan diet among ancient humans comes from <a href="https://plantbasednews.org/opinion/are-humans-designed-to-eat-meat/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">their teeth</a>. The teeth of our early human ancestors were flat and broad, consistent with a plant-based diet. In contrast, the teeth of carnivores are sharp and pointed, ideal for tearing meat. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Cultural veganism</h2>The rise of agriculture around <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/06/110615094514.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">10,000 years ago</a> led to the widespread consumption of animal products, but even then, plant-based diets remained common in many cultures. In ancient India, for example, vegetarianism was a deeply held religious belief, and many Hindus still follow a plant-based diet today. Vegetarianism was also encouraged by the sacred texts of Buddhism and Jainism.&nbsp;<a href="https://vegsoc.org/about-us/world-history-of-vegetarianism/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">These religions taught the doctrines of non-violence and respect for all life forms</a>.&nbsp; Some of the earliest known vegans in India were the followers of Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, who lived around 600 BCE.&nbsp;<a href="https://bitesizevegan.org/vegans-in-ancient-times-the-history-of-veganism-part-one/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">He taught that all living beings have souls and that harming them creates negative karma</a>. Jain monks often carry brushes to sweep the ground in front of them to <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/jainism/living/ahimsa_1.shtml#:~:text=Monks%20and%20nuns%20follow%20the%20doctrine%20of%20ahimsa,they%20don%27t%20swallow%20and%20thus%20harm%20any%20flies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">avoid accidentally crushing insects when they walk</a>. As well as wearing muslin cloths over their mouths in case they swallow any insects is also observed. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1718908630/Image_1_96_pic1_1a41a7410c.png" alt="Jain monks standing outside in the sun"><a href="https://flic.kr/p/RXzKz7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Güldem Üstün</a>/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">CC BY 2.0</a> After ancient times, the meatless lifestyle didn’t fully catch on in the West until relatively recently, although it popped up during health crazes and religious revivals, such as <a href="https://time.com/3958070/history-of-veganism/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Ephrata Cloister</a>, a strict religious sect founded in 1732 in Pennsylvania, which advocated vegetarianism. And via some Western philosophers, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.utilitarianism.com/jeremybentham.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Jeremy Bentham</a>, who compared animal suffering to human suffering, saying that neither was acceptable. <a href="https://zerxza.com/food-nutrition/the-timeline-of-vegan-movement/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bentham even compared consuming animal products to racism and feeling superior to other races</a>. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">5 historical advocates</h2>A famous early advocate of veganism was <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/vegan-diet-history-veganism-plants-b2153951.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pythagoras</a>, a Greek philosopher and mathematician who lived around 500 BCE.&nbsp;He believed that all animals had immortal souls that would be reincarnated after death, and he practiced “abstinence from beings with a soul.” He also influenced other Greek thinkers, such as Plato and Socrates, who were recorded as following vegetarian and vegan diets. Another early philosopher, <a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/Porphyry-Syrian-philosopher" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Porphyry (c. 234 - c. 305)</a>, wrote <a href="https://research-information.bris.ac.uk/en/publications/porphyry-on-abstinence-from-killing-animals-translation-and-comme" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">On Abstinence from Killing Animals</a>, an early and thorough case for ethical vegetarianism and veganism. He opposed animal killing and abuse and upheld animal rights and interests with reason and compassion. <a href="https://www.globalvegans.com/news-campaigns/celebrating-historic-vegans%3A-the-five-earliest-proponents-of-veganism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Al-Ma’arri (c. 973 - c. 1057)</a>, a blind Arab poet, pacifist and philosopher who renounced meat, eggs, cheese, and honey, <a href="https://www.peta.org/features/1000-year-old-poem-animal-rights/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">wrote</a>: “Do not unjustly eat fish the water has given up / And do not desire as food the flesh of slaughtered animals / Or the white milk of mothers who intended its pure draught / for their young”. <a href="https://plantbasednews.org/opinion/on-international-womens-day-inspiring-vegan-women-changing-the-world/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Angela Davis</a> is well known for advocating human rights and social justice since the 1960s. In 2009, Davis became vegan and stands up for all sentient beings, which “endure pain and torture as they are transformed into food for profit, food that generates disease in humans whose poverty compels them to rely on McDonald’s and KFC for nourishment.” American feminist scholar and animal rights advocate <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cja_from_dallas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Carol J. Adams</a>, wrote the groundbreaking book <a href="https://caroljadams.com/cja-bio" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Sexual Politics of Meat</a> in 1990, which analysed the links between patriarchy, meat-eating, and the oppression of women and animals. She also coined the term “<a href="https://caroljadams.com/the-absent-referent" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">the absent referent</a>,” which refers to how animals are made invisible and objectified in language and culture <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Today</h2>Today, the evidence in favour of a vegan diet is more compelling than ever. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28792455/#:~:text=Evidence%20suggests%20that%20plant-based%20diets%20may%20reduce%20the,and%20type%202%20diabetes%20by%20about%20one%20half." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Studies have shown that</a> a plant-based diet is associated with a reduction in the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/13/meat-greenhouses-gases-food-production-study" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">the production of animal products has a significant impact on the environment</a>, contributing to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Veganism is growing around the world. According to a global survey conducted in 2021 by Rakuten, 81% of consumers had tried plant-based milk, 48% had tried other dairy alternatives, 44% had tried vegan meat alternatives and 25% had tried a vegan egg replacement. <a href="https://www.vegansociety.com/news/media/statistics/worldwide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">In a 2021 global survey by NSF</a>, 88% of food industry practitioners said that they expect demand for plant-based products to increase. There are significant pro-veganism movements in Western countries. So how old is veganism? It depends on how you define it. As a term, it is relatively new. As a concept, it’s ancient history. What’s going on now - delve into the world of how the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-the-animal-agriculture-industry-uses-language-for-protection" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">animal agriculture industry uses terms to spin its agenda</a> and take a look at how vegan brands <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/toeing-the-line-how-and-why-brands-use-funny-vegan-product-names" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">cleverly play on words to promote ethical eating</a>.

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How old is veganism, really? Was ancient history plant-based? 

The quest for perfection in our diets has become more prevalent in the last few years. Following a whole food plant-based diet is the dream for many, but in a world where we are tempted by an abundance of mouthwatering meals and snacks we can feel like a failure when we can't stick to something we thought so simple. We try to live like we are in a <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/blue-zones" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">blue zone</a>; however, realistically we haven't been brought up in a culture and environment to allow us to do so.&nbsp;We do our best, but we forget about balance, we forget it's okay not to be 100%, we forget that we are imperfect as a species.&nbsp; <h2>Embrace the 80/20: Life's tastiest rule</h2>Instead, we should seek balance. Fostering a sustainable plant-based diet which balances all nutritional goals, while allowing ourselves the occasional meals and foods, which may be more of the ‘treat’ variety. I opt for an 80/20 rule, however, depending on who you are and what you consider achievable you could opt for 85/15 or 70/30, or any other variation you see fit. The 80/20 rule (in this context) embraces a predominantly whole foods diet full of nutrient-dense plant-based options (80%) with the flexibility for indulgences (20%) allowing the empowerment for mindful choices and a reminder that balance is key to sustainability.&nbsp; <h2>Plate perfection: Easy, nutritious, delicious</h2>The framework of a dish can vary, but the structure is the same, starting with whole grains offering sustained energy release, and a variety of vegetables providing an array of essential vitamins and antioxidants to build up your body's defences.&nbsp; Diverse proteins such as legumes, tofu, tempeh, and seitan contribute not only to the structural integrity of the body's composition but also provide essential amino acids supporting muscle health and overall bodily function.&nbsp; Healthy fats sources from avocados, nuts, and seeds add depth and richness, both in flavour and nutritional content. <h2>Nutrient goldmine: Discover plant power</h2>I also want to highlight the abundance of essential nutrients found in various plant-based foods. Take lentils, for instance, which boast a rich profile of vitamins such as B1 through to B6, choline, folate, calcium, vitamin K, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, and sodium.&nbsp; While there are only a few minerals and vitamins that may be limited in one food, the beauty lies in the synergy of consuming a diverse range of plant foods. By incorporating various nutrient-packed options into your diet, you can cover all your nutritional bases, meeting Recommended Daily Intakes (RDIs) and providing your body with the optimal support it needs to thrive. Much like a well-serviced car with a full tank of fuel, the likelihood of failure is minimised because your body is well-equipped with everything it needs.&nbsp; This foundation allows you the flexibility to explore and enjoy additional whole foods, opt for what may be perceived as ‘junk’ food or indulge in something sweeter, like a dessert, without compromising your nutritional well-being. <h2>Supplements: The non-negotiables</h2>It's essential to note that even a well-balanced plate, no matter how nutritionally stable, doesn't eliminate the potential need for certain supplements. While we can incorporate foods containing vitamins like fortified B12, supplementation is still vital as a precautionary measure. Vitamin D, a nutrient obtained from sunlight, presents a geographical challenge, making supplementation a practical choice. Additionally, ensuring an adequate intake of algae-based omega-3 supplements becomes crucial for those not consuming seaweed or nuts and seeds regularly. Seaweed-based foods also offer a source of iodine (although be careful not to have too much iodine, limiting kelp due to high and unstable levels of iodine; nori may be a safer bet in terms of levels of iodine). <h2>Sauce it up</h2>The debate over sauces often arises, with some considering them an indulgence to be avoided. However, adhering to an 80/20 split on whole foods doesn't necessarily mean eliminating beloved sauces like ketchup, mayo, or BBQ sauces from your culinary repertoire. While these condiments may not be deemed the healthiest, their inclusion can bring added flavour and enjoyment to your meals. The key lies in moderation and balance. If a dollop of your favourite sauce adds vibrancy to your plant-based plate and encourages you to stick to healthier eating habits, then why deprive yourself? The journey to mastering seasoning can be an evolving process, and experimenting with flavours allows you to tailor your diet to your unique preferences. So, if a drizzle of ketchup enhances your dining experience, embrace it - after all, a healthy diet is about sustainability and joy, not rigid restrictions. <h2>Find your balance, ditch the stress</h2>Adopting a more flexible stance toward dietary restrictions is a crucial step. Instead of strictly adhering to rules, let's prioritise achieving a balanced approach. This not only helps us avoid the potential dangers of obsessive eating, which might lead to eating disorders but also allows us to break free from the tight grip of rigid perfectionism.&nbsp; While showcasing our thriving selves on a plant-based diet is a shared aspiration, it's equally important to grasp that an intense fixation on healthy eating can inadvertently pave the way for unhealthy obsessions. This may manifest in restrictive eating habits and emotional distress when we deviate from our idealised diet.&nbsp; <h2>Redefining wellness: Eat, enjoy, thrive</h2>So, if you find yourself craving a slice of pizza instead of a Buddha bowl or yearning for a vegan sausage rather than tempeh, indulge without fear, as that one deviation doesn’t have to derail your progress. Just as missing a gym session won't erase your muscles or skipping a run won't impede your speed, one day filled with snacks and treats won't necessarily lead to unwanted weight gain. Your commitment lies in the 80% dedicated to a well-rounded diet, while the remaining 20% is space for you to make choices based on your desires and the needs of your body. If you are curious about how to implement more omega-3 sources in your plant-based diet check out the 5 best <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-best-vegan-omega-3-sources" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">omega 3 sources</a>, and find out how to decode <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/is-it-healthy-if-it-says-it-s-healthy-decoding-ultra-processed-foods" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">ultra-processed foods</a>.

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Embrace balance and consider 80/20 mentality when eating


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Jamie Logan: Passion, pain, and Oreo the goat

Dallas is known for its vibrant culinary scene, and vegans have no shortage of delicious options to explore. Whether you're a local like me or just passing through, this guide will lead you to some of the best vegan eateries in town. From innovative twists on classic dishes to hearty comfort food, these spots redefine what it means to eat vegan. <h2>Slutty Vegan Dallas</h2>This menu of burgers, fries, and sandwiches is sure to raise an eyebrow or two - I bet you can't order the One Night Stand (pictured above), Fussy Hussy or Hollywood Hooker with a straight face. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of your Friday night shenanigans, or feeling like having a cheat day because it's Saturday, <a href="https://sluttyveganatl.com/dallas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Slutty Vegan</a> is your go-to spot! <h2>Pepitas Vegan Taqueria</h2>When visiting Denton, satisfy your cravings for authentic Mexican flavours with a vegan twist at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pepitasrestaurant/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pepitas Vegan Taqueria</a>. This culinary gem has been delighting diners with its innovative plant-based dishes for several years. Dive into their Al Pastor Tacos, brimming with marinated soy and jackfruit, or savour their irresistible Brisket Birria Tacos. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just dipping your toes into plant-based eating, Pepitas promises a delightful experience for all. Did someone say cruelty-free Taco Tuesday? <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1717623880/Image_1_92_pic_2_5067132e56.png" alt="Taco from Pepitas Vegan Taqueria, being dipped in sauce">Pepitas Vegan Taqueria <h2>Mashup Market and Deli</h2>We all remember that feeling growing up when going to a friend's house, and their mum would greet us with the biggest welcome, making you feel right at home. Well, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mashupmarket?igsh=MWk2bmlqMWdjb3NzeA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mashup Market and Deli</a> is no different. The owner and her mother greeted me the minute I walked in, asking how I was doing, and giving recommendations. They gave me a whole plate of samples from their hummus spreads to ‘meats’ and ‘cheese.’ Getting one of their plant-based sandwiches at their deli is also an absolute must. It is undoubtedly the best sandwich I have ever had (pictured below). I got the Classic Italian and cannot wait to go back to try them all! This is definitely your one-stop shop for all things vegan. And no shame if you walk out with multiple bags; I know I did! <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1717624053/Image_2_25_pic_3_bee81e30ed.png" alt="Classic Italian vegan sandwich from Mashup Market and Deli, Dallas, Texas">Jessie Childs <h2>Bam’s Vegan&nbsp;</h2>Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal on the go? Look no further than <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bamsvegansw/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bam’s Vegan</a>. Those leaning into a light lunch can opt for a salad, whereas a famished customer can easily find enough sustenance with a colossal wrap. Naturally, I opted for the latter. Originally starting at the Dallas Farmers Market, Bam’s has quickly become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1717624206/Image_3_5_pic_4_8992e94039.jpg" alt="Vegan wrap from Bam’s Vegan, Dallas">Bam’s Vegan <h2>Spiral Diner &amp; Bakery</h2>A Dallas staple, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/spiraldiner/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Spiral Diner</a> serves up comfort food like no other. Hell's Half Acre and Viva Las Migas are just two examples of what you’ll find here. They also have their own take on Chicken and ‘Waffles’ (pictured below), leaving you questioning if you should ever go back home. Founded by a team of dedicated foodies, Spiral Diner is committed to providing delicious vegan options for everyone. This diner is a must-visit for both longtime vegans and newbies alike. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1717624388/Image_4_pic_5_aedb4d4e35.png" alt="‘Pancake Grilled Cheese San’ich with Chick’n’ from Spiral Diner &amp; Bakery, Dallas, USA">Spiral Diner &amp; Bakery <h2>Vegan Vibrationz&nbsp;</h2>Get ready for big flavours and even bigger vibes at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veganvibrationz/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Vibrationz</a>. Known for their creative and flavourful dishes, this spot reimagines food classics in the most delicious way. Famous for its vegan version of the fast-food favourite, the Crunchwrap Supreme (pictured below), made with Beyond meat, dairy-free chipotle sour cream, vegan cheddar, and mango pico de gallo. Once described by Eater as a "full-on phenomenon in Dallas," this place will have you asking, "Are you sure this isn't meat?" <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1717624558/Image_5_pic_6_a0b8089e9e.png" alt="Crunchwrap Supreme from Vegan Vibrationz, Dallas">Vegan Vibrationz <h2>TLC Vegan Cafe</h2>When Sundays roll around, we only have one thing on our minds - brunch! While the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tlcvegancafe/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">TLC Vegan Cafe</a> dinner is impeccable, their brunch really sets them apart. Get ready for mushroom gravy to trickle down your arm and orange marmalade drizzle to smudge the corners of your mouth after you divulge in plates such as the Chick'n &amp; Waffles (pictured below) or Chick'n &amp; Grits. And if your stomach can handle it, order the Bananas Foster Bread Pudding for dessert. (You deserve it!) <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1717624696/Image_6_pic_7_761f5f0466.png" alt="Chick’n &amp; Waffles from TLC Vegan Cafe, Dallas">TLC Vegan Cafe Each spot brings something unique, making Dallas a top destination for vegan food enthusiasts.&nbsp; Check out why I think going internationally to places like <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/best-vegan-restaurants-in-bristol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bristol </a>and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/mahalo-stockholm-s-scrumptious-vegan-paradise" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Stockholm</a> is worth the travel time.

 ‘One Night Stand’ vegan burger from Slutty Vegan Dallas, Texas

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7 best vegan spots in Dallas: A local’s guide

It’s 2024, and by now, we all know how to do our bit for the planet. We recycle, turn off the tap when we brush our teeth and boycott single-use plastics. But what else? There must be more to sustainability than cycling to work and tote bags. Here’s five weird ways to be sustainable, some of which you might not have heard of before. Let us know if you’re brave enough to try any of these out for yourself.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Paperless toilet wipes&nbsp;</h2>That’s right, at the top of our list of weird ways to be sustainable are paperless toilet wipes, aka wipes for when you wee. If you’ve ever tried reusable makeup wipes, these are the same thing but bigger, not for your face.&nbsp; You can buy cloth wipes made of cotton or bamboo that are incredibly soft and washable. Many people who use a bidet already use these types of wipes, but you can also use them to cut down on the amount of toilet paper you use. The idea is you use paperless toilet wipes when you wee, and ordinary toilet paper for the rest. According to <a href="https://www.theworldcounts.com/challenges/other-products/environmental-impact-of-toilet-paper" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The World Counts</a>, 184 million toilet rolls are used globally annually. The production of all this paper is at the expense of 1,165 million tons of water and 712 million trees. If you want to reduce the amount of paper you use, try paperless toilet wipes. Most of us use between <a href="https://www.pennlive.com/coronavirus/2020/04/how-much-toilet-paper-do-you-really-need-this-calculator-helps-you-find-the-answer.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">8 and 9 squares of toilet roll</a> every time we go to the toilet. If you can, try a few squares less, or none at all! <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Plant milk makers&nbsp;</h2>Many alternative milk companies use Tetra Pak cartons which are notoriously difficult to recycle because they are made up of mixed materials such as cardboard and plastic that are hard to separate. In their latest <a href="https://indd.adobe.com/view/6f0d097c-49cc-465a-9d81-fbe99c675296" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">sustainability report</a>, Tetra Pak stated that out of 192 billion cartons sold last year, only 50 billion were recycled. This means over 140 billion cartons are still scattered worldwide.&nbsp; Swap Tetra Pak cartons for alternatives, like making your own plant milk trying out new plant milk makers on the market. These quirky pieces of tech help you make your own dairy-free milk at home. Part blender, part strainer, plant milk makers are a step up from the humble cheesecloth. They’re fun to use, self-sufficient, and you’ll save money on all the store-bought milk you no longer have to buy.&nbsp; The main issue is that Tetra Pak often has to be collected or taken to a recycling centre with the right machinery to take apart each material, something that not every local council has. You can always post your Tetra Pak to be properly recycled, but this is neither a priority nor time efficient for most people.&nbsp; Investing in a plant milk maker also means getting creative with the leftover pulp and baking delicious goods like cookies, pancakes, and banana bread! <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Kintsugi&nbsp;</h2>Next on our list of weird ways to be sustainable is an upcycle project that isn’t weird at all. <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/326qTYw26156P9k92v8zr3C/broken-a-pot-copy-the-japanese-and-fix-it-with-gold" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Kintsugi</a> is a beautiful Japanese tradition that celebrates breakages and breathes new life into broken items. Cracked or chipped pottery is glued back together and adorned with powdered gold before being left to dry.&nbsp; The practice of Kintsugi dates back to the 15th century when a man called Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa was said to have broken his favourite Chinese tea bowl. He immediately sent the bowl to China to be repaired with gold. Today, many fashion and interior designers take inspiration from kintsugi and try to imitate the asymmetrical gold lines in their own work.&nbsp;&nbsp; The art of Kintsugi is about more than aesthetics, it’s an acceptance of imperfection. If you want to try a traditional way to be more sustainable, try mending something in your home. Of course, make sure the item is still usable and safe. Spend some time fixing a dish or plate or even paint some old furniture you might otherwise get rid of.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Potatoes for your plants and home&nbsp;</h2>Back to our ways to be more sustainable - save nutrient-rich potato water for your plants. Instead of draining the water used to boil your potatoes, simply let the water cool down and give your plants a boost of starchy goodness.&nbsp; When boiled, certain foods like potatoes, pasta, and rice will release starch - a complex carbohydrate. Starch is a great energy source and will help your plant grow and produce larger, greener leaves. Boiled potato water is a natural fertiliser that contains minerals such as potassium, iron, and phosphorus. Ensure you don’t salt your water if you plan to do this! Large amounts of sodium can cause your plants to dry out, burn and stop growing.&nbsp; Speaking of potatoes, if you have a few gnarly and knotted spuds lying around, you can use them on light stains and rust as an eco-friendly cleaning product. Potatoes contain oxalic acid, a common ingredient found in household cleaning products. Oxalic acid can help to remove small stains and is even better at removing rust. If a potato is halved, the flesh can be used to rub pots, pans, and kitchen sides.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Compost your and your pet’s hair!&nbsp;</h2>Last on our list of how to be more sustainable is to compost your body’s organic materials, aka your hair! And, of course, your pet too. The same goes for your fingernail clippings and, yup, dead skin. All of it can be composted or thrown into your food waste bin.&nbsp; If you don’t already, composting is great for the environment. The UK wastes over <a href="https://www.businesswaste.co.uk/food-waste-2023-the-facts/#:~:text=Food%20waste%20facts.&amp;text=The%20UK%20throws%20away%20around,UK%20are%20in%20food%20poverty." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">9.5 million tonnes</a> of food every year. Most commonly, bread, dairy, and potatoes. You can turn your own food waste into a natural fertiliser for your garden. Human hair is a protein high in nitrogen, which makes it great for green compost, alongside food waste, and grass trimmings.&nbsp; We hope you try one of our weird ways to be sustainable and tell us how it goes. If you want to learn more about sustainability and how you can help save our planet, read about <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/save-the-earth-the-biodiversity-crisis-nobody-is-talking-about" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">the biodiversity crisis nobody is talking about</a>.&nbsp;And have you ever wondered what cities can do to become more sustainable? Read about how <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/what-makes-sheffield-the-greenest-city-in-the-uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sheffield got its green status</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Don’t waste your pet’s hair - compost it! Learn why and discover 4 other weird ways to be sustainable.

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5 weird ways to be sustainable: Gold repairs to composting hair

Factory farming was first introduced in the UK in the 1940s. Sadly, this intensive farming method has become the status quo year by year, with approximately 85% of farmed animals now confined to factory farms across the country. We sat down with <a href="http://www.instagram.com/vivacharity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Viva!</a> Founder &amp; International Director <a href="https://www.instagram.com/julietgellatley/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Juliet Gellatley</a>, to learn what it’s like as an animal rights activist exposing the truth behind factory farming.&nbsp; Juliet founded Viva! in 1994 with the aim of making the world a kinder place for humans and animals alike, and found that in terms of scale, the most cruelty that is inflicted upon animals happens in factory farms and slaughterhouses. Juliet shares how Viva! desires to shut down both.&nbsp;&nbsp;V-Land UK (V-L): Your journey has been truly inspirational, please share where it all began, and the defining moment in your life that drew you to the animal rights movement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Juliet Gellatley (JG): I’ve been a passionate vegan for well over 30 years now, and it all started as a teenager when I visited a factory pig farm. I was appalled to see hundreds of these beautiful, bright, pregnant sows crammed into tiny, filthy metal stalls. I made eye contact with one of the huge boars (kept in the same shed for breeding), he was in a bad way and clearly in pain. I was so overwhelmed at the thought of this intelligent, pleading animal spending his entire existence in a complete hovel, not knowing that he was one day going to be killed and eaten, and it shook me to my core.&nbsp;&nbsp;I went vegetarian there and then, and veganism followed once I discovered the cruelty of the dairy and egg trades. Visiting that farm was a defining moment in my life; it forever changed me as a person. I could no longer just go about my day, knowing that millions of animals were suffering in conditions deemed ‘legal.’ I knew I had to do something. After visiting that first factory farm, I made it my mission to visit as many as possible, so I could show other people where their food was really coming from.&nbsp; There is a huge misconception that the British animal farming industry is wholesome and idyllic, and I’ve discovered that it is quite the opposite, with helpless animals trapped in dirty, confined spaces. Disease and violence towards animals are widespread, and the animals are sent to slaughter at very young ages, with many of them never getting to go outside. It’s a shameful industry, and I have made it my personal mission to educate as many people as possible about how animal agriculture truthfully operates.&nbsp;&nbsp;V-L: How did Viva! come to be? What challenges did you face when founding a charity?&nbsp;&nbsp;JG: Viva! was launched in 1994, after I left my job at the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_vegetarian_society" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegetarian Society</a>. I wanted to launch my own charity that would focus on exposing factory farming, and banging the drum for farmed animals and veganism. l set up Viva! in my garage; it's crazy to see how much it’s grown, as we now have a large office in central Bristol with about 30 staff! In the 1990s, vegetarianism was becoming mainstream - but veganism definitely not! - so I had the task of popularising a lifestyle that was misunderstood and labelled ‘extreme.’ Not an easy feat.&nbsp;&nbsp;When we first launched, there were obvious initial challenges, such as cash flow issues, and the typical problem of not having enough hours in the day. I was fortunate enough to get in contact with <a href="https://viva.org.uk/blog/audrey-eyton-obituary/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Audrey Eyton</a>, a wonderful woman who had devastatingly lost her son. He had been an animal rights activist before he passed away, so she ended up working closely with Viva! and donating money to get us off the ground. I’ll forever be grateful for her support.&nbsp;&nbsp;Another unique challenge I faced was getting access to factory farms, so that I could document what was taking place. Unsurprisingly, farmers aren’t so keen on letting people come and see the animals who are living miserable lives. So, I had to find ways of gaining access to the farms. I once convinced a farmer to let me inside the barn and sneakily took footage when he wasn’t looking. Once his boss realised what I was doing, a chase scene ensued. It was very much like something from a film!&nbsp;&nbsp;V-L: Did you envision Viva! becoming the leading campaigning charity for animal rights in the UK?&nbsp;&nbsp;JG: I always aimed to operate at a serious level to progress veganism, and it’s an honour for Viva! to now be so well recognised. Viva! is a <a href="https://viva.org.uk/about-us/staff/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">team of highly motivated people</a> who are determined to save animals and our planet. It seems odd now to think that I was the first person to campaign for vegetarianism in the UK in my career before Viva!, and then to spend decades campaigning for veganism, but it’s a nice full-circle moment to see that the work is paying off. Veganism really has become much more mainstream and it is common to see vegan menus in restaurant chains.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Viva! doesn't receive any government grants, so our work is entirely dependent on support from our donors, legacies, and supporters. We have a loyal supporter base, some of whom have been with us since the start. Of course, for me, it’s all about the animals.&nbsp; I won’t stop until every farmed animal is free, and wildlife is no longer under threat from animal agriculture, that is what motivates me to keep going.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1716293949/IMG_4657_5a504c1386.png" alt="Juliet Gellatley kneeling on the grass with her arm around a sheep">&nbsp;Viva! V-L: Which campaign has affected you the most and why?&nbsp;&nbsp;JG: I’ve been to countless farms since I launched Viva!, but one that really sticks with me is Hogwood pig farm, which supplied Tesco and was Red Tractor-approved at the time. I was aghast at the awful conditions these poor pigs were subjected to at this horror farm, so much so that we visited four times between 2017 and 2019. Heartbreakingly, pigs at Hogwood were being beaten, were resorting to cannibalism out of desperation and were surrounded by the decomposing corpses of their brothers and sisters. If it sounds like something out of a horror film, that’s because it was.&nbsp;I was so appalled at seeing how these pigs were being treated at a so-called 'high welfare’ farm, but what was more disturbing to me was how little the corporations cared. It took months of campaigning before Red Tractor or Tesco dropped the farm.&nbsp; It was incredibly frustrating knowing that pigs were being abused, but no one was willing to do anything about it. Eventually the farm was dropped by Tesco and Red Tractor, but it took constant dedication from our team. We made a film about the farm and our struggle to make the world care; <a href="https://viva.org.uk/animals/campaigns/hogwood-a-modern-horror-story/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Hogwood: A Modern Horror Story</a> is available to stream now on <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hogwood-modern-horror-Jerome-Flynn/dp/B08B8VDRSL" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Amazon Prime</a> and <a href="https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81471131?source=35" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Netflix</a>.&nbsp;V-L: You’ve spoken on multiple platforms, from Vegan Camp Out to being interviewed by Piers Morgan. What advice would you give anyone advocating for animals in the public eye, and what challenges/resistance might they need to prepare for?&nbsp;&nbsp;JG: Advice that I give to everyone appearing in the media, is to have one key opening statement that summarises everything you want to get across in the interview. Interviews tend to go off on a tangent - and certain interviewers will try to lead you away from the topic at hand - but if you have a well-thought-out opening statement that you can always come back to, you’ll feel a lot more relaxed. It’s also helpful to have some key, up-to-date stats that can back up your viewpoint.&nbsp; For example, I always make sure I’ve got key information about the number of animals living in factory farms, the impact it’s having on our climate/health, and how many vegans there are. I get asked variations of these questions almost every time, so having relevant data is an excellent way of backing up my point.&nbsp;Finally, stay calm. There are journalists who will try to catch you out, particularly if they disagree with what you’re saying (Piers Morgan, I’m looking at you!). If you can remain calm, that’s half the battle. The audience will find it much easier to understand you if you take your time and answer with the facts, as opposed to letting emotions rule you.&nbsp; To state the obvious, always remember you’re talking to the audience, not the interviewer, they are just a conduit. Easier said than done, but a useful pointer if you ever come across a stubborn interviewer!&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1716294062/IMG_4658_60e5695b94.png" alt="Juliet Gellatley standing next to a group of caged pigs">Viva!&nbsp;V-L: Viva! is renowned for honest and impactful campaigns, showcasing the truth behind animal welfare here in the UK. Do you feel a shift towards a wider awareness towards animal equality?&nbsp;&nbsp;JG: Since I launched Viva! in 1994, there’s been a colossal shift in the way people view veganism. In the 1990s, veganism was viewed as radical with very few food options at restaurants. Now, you can walk into any chain in the UK and get a vegan option - and it’s not all bean burgers and falafel salads either! However, there’s still a long way to go.&nbsp; While veganism is becoming more widespread, there’s still a lot of misunderstanding around factory farming and slaughter. It’s easy to fall for the meat industry’s false narrative that animals live wholesome lives and have peaceful deaths, because believing their lies is convenient.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Researching and understanding the truth about factory farms and slaughterhouses is incredibly hard, both mentally and because these institutions operate behind closed doors. That’s why Viva! does so many undercover campaigns, and it’s why I recently appeared in <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joey_carbstrong/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Joey Carbstrong</a>’s excellent documentary <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pignorant-Joey-Carbstrong/dp/B0CV8HQ3QV" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pignorant</a>. The documentary exposes pig gassing, the widespread method of pig slaughter that takes the lives of approximately 90% of UK-farmed pigs. It’s so important to educate people on how farmed animals live and die just so they can end up on their plates. I believe people are more open to hearing about these practices than they were 30 years ago - but it’s up to all of us to keep spreading the word.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you’d like to support Viva! and their campaigns you can <a href="http://viva.org.uk/join" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">join here</a>, or to support a Viva! Campaign in person, you can register to <a href="http://viva.org.uk/viva-volunteer-community/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">volunteer</a> via their website.&nbsp; For more inspiring interviews within the animal rights movement, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/in-conversation-with-matthew-glover-investing-in-a-vegan-future" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">investing in a vegan future</a> with Veganuary Founder Matthew Glover, or why Ed Winters is <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/ed-winters-shares-why-he-s-compelled-to-champion-vegan-activism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">compelled to champion vegan activism</a>.<img src="//:0"><img src="//:0"><img src="//:0">

Juliet Gellatley sitting on the grass with a pig laying on her lap

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Juliet Gellatley on her crusade to end factory farming in the UK

Do you want more vegan friends in your life?&nbsp; It can be difficult to meet like-minded people, especially if you don't live in a big city, feel judged at social gatherings for your diet, or feel the need to over-explain yourself to family or friends.&nbsp; Don’t worry, in this digital age, it’s never been easier to connect with people with similar interests. And we've got some great ideas for meeting like-minded plant-based friends and connecting over your similarities rather than your differences. <h2>Get swiping!</h2>Swiping right isn’t just reserved for dating apps. There are some excellent apps for meeting like-minded friends. Try <a href="https://instagram.com/grazerapp?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Grazer</a> created like ‘Tinder for Vegans,’ where there’s now an option to look for friends. Create a profile, highlight your favourite vegan spots, meals, and interests, and connect with people around you. Use it as an opportunity to go to local events near you or plan meetups for bigger events such as the Vegan Camp Out. Another option is <a href="https://instagram.com/bumbleforfriends?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bumble For Friends</a>, where you can match with people through the friend version of Bumble. There’s an option for adding interests such as ‘Environmentalism,’ ‘Sustainability,’ and ‘Going Green.’ Many people add veganism to their profiles to stand out. <h2>Post on social media!</h2>Use social media as a tool. Whether it's Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, post about what you love and find your people. Whether it’s a post about your newest culinary triumphs or a visit to your favourite vegan café, use hashtags and tag restaurants, and it’ll open up opportunities for new vegan followers and friends. Facebook groups, such as ‘<a href="https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fm.facebook.com%2Fgroups%2F372988063540904%2F%3Fref%3Dshare&amp;data=05%7C01%7C%7Cb5ae5c6515fc418a883f08db8dac4fc8%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638259543425977242%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=dUOWpxWt4uIbUWr396FfhGCqEnDQYh14FehAejIeImQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Eats</a>’ and ‘<a href="https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fm.facebook.com%2Fgroups%2FVeganFoodUK%2F%3Fref%3Dshare&amp;data=05%7C01%7C%7Cb5ae5c6515fc418a883f08db8dac4fc8%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638259543425977242%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=cp5TBrLFAxsbv75ld6O2S6DhiFEZGg9o3J49f%2FYnqzY%3D&amp;reserved=0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Food UK</a>,’ have regular meet-ups and conversations. Search vegan and your city to find the best vegan restaurants and people nearby. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1716291507/IMG_4656_161dccd192.png" alt="Two women taking a selfie together while blowing bubbles with their gum">Ben Weber/Unsplash&nbsp; <h2>Look into activism in your area</h2>Vegans are passionate about more than just food. Engage with your ethical lifestyle by getting involved with animal rights activism and volunteering. Whether you’re supporting an animal sanctuary or working with an environmental organisation, you will meet people with the same values and perhaps even shared experiences. Find out what activism occurs in your area or nearest city and start important conversations. <h2>Explore local events</h2>Look for events in your city. There are amazing nights in cities around the UK, such as <a href="https://instagram.com/vegannightsldn?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Nights</a> which is London’s biggest plant-based food and lifestyle party, making it the perfect opportunity to meet new people. This is based in East London and hosts 40 stalls of plant-based street food at a vegan beer brewery. If you’re not in London, visit vegan or vegetarian restaurants or cafes in your area. Look for leaflets, pamphlets, and posters advertising upcoming events to find your crowd. Explore <a href="https://instagram.com/meetup?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Meetup</a>; this website and app are fantastic platforms for discovering local events. There’s a vast array of gatherings, from picnics, vegan cooking workshops, crafting meetups, and ‘speed mating.’ You’ll be spoiled for choice. If you're still in school, college, or university, there's likely a vegan or vegetarian society on your campus. This is the ideal place to meet other herbivores, exchange information about vegan-friendly cafés, and organise exciting events. Friendships formed over Meatless Mondays will last far beyond your academic career.&nbsp; After studying, it’s important to consider how your career fits into your overall lifestyle. Working for a socially conscious or charitable organisation can make it easier to meet eco-conscious and vegan individuals. Face your fears, step outside your comfort zone, and you will be rewarded. The vegan community is welcoming, and you'll be able to bond over your love of plant-based food and compassion for animals. Allow new friendships to develop into vegan travel, camping, dinners, and deep friendships. Why not plan a vegan trip to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/making-the-most-of-liverpool-as-a-vegan-tourist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Liverpool</a> or <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/discovering-the-secrets-of-lisbon-as-a-vegan-tourist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lisbon</a> with your new vegan friends? Matching plant-based <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-tattoos-think-before-you-ink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">tattoos</a>? Or if that seems a bit much, how about <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/too-good-to-miss-vegan-shows-to-binge-watch" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">bingeing some vegan shows</a>?

Woman besides another woman at the seashore both smiling and embracing one another

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Would you like more vegan friends in your life? Here's how

I am well aware that being a London-based vegan means I am spoilt. It has a plethora of vegan restaurants to choose from, so venturing out of the city can invoke a sense of uncertainty, particularly when planning trips to remote locations. Thankfully, there are an increasing number of plant-based options to be unearthed, and a recent trip to the Scottish Highlands presented me with several surprising vegan finds. Regardless of where your adventure takes you, pre-planning pays dividends. My go-to is <a href="https://www.happycow.net/europe/scotland/inverness/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">HappyCow</a>, and I was thrilled to discover two vegan cafés close to where I stayed in Inverness. <h2>An instant favourite and a returning visitor</h2>Upon arrival, I was just in time to catch a late lunch at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/culturecafedeli" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Culture Cafe &amp; Deli</a>. Its homely dining room aesthetic and friendly staff make you feel instantly welcome. With a display cabinet filled with fresh salads, toasties, and mouthwatering cakes, I knew I’d leave beyond satiated.&nbsp; I ordered a mixed salad bowl, breakfast burrito, and risotto ball. I relished every dish, but the showstopper was the accompanying turmeric latte. It was flavourful and frothy with a nice spicy kick. I was so smitten that I returned every morning on my daily trek to stock up on toasties for lunch and a latte for the car ride. It would also be remiss of me if I didn’t mention the fudge from a local supplier they sold in their little pantry; it was soft and creamy with just the right amount of sweetness. I chose the whisky flavour - I was in Scotland, after all - and its subtle undertone worked perfectly. Fudge and whisky are not normally my thing, but this completely won me over. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715853174/IMG_4597_a0c583b42f.png" alt="Mug of turmeric latte, mug of tea, and mug of coffee from Culture Cafe &amp; Deli in Inverness">Mark Flood <h2>Vegan sausage rolls in unexpected places</h2>In 2019, Greggs took the UK by storm with their vegan take on their classic sausage roll. The resulting popularity encouraged many other eateries to offer something similar. Where I did not expect to find one was at the <a href="https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/corrieshalloch-gorge" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Corrieshalloch Gorge</a> National Nature Reserve.&nbsp; This relatively new visitor centre is the gateway to a spectacular mile-long canyon carved out during the ice age. I grabbed a sausage roll at their café before walking through the woodland trails and taking in the stunning views from the various suspension bridges.&nbsp; <h2>The other one</h2>Back in Inverness, nestled at the back of the Victorian Market food hall is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salt_n_fire_inverness" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Salt N Fire</a> café. This is the second fully vegan eatery in the city. One of the benefits of this street food vendor is the late-night opening on Friday and Saturday.&nbsp; After a day of exertion and fresh air their deep-fried wontons and peanut-topped Szechuan noodles were unbelievably satisfying. While there are many Pan-Asian dishes on their menu, it is international in nature so there is something for everyone. Definitely one to visit when in town. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715853322/IMG_4598_91d812e90e.png" alt="Salt N Fire wontons in Inverness">Mark Flood <h2>Heading west from Inverness</h2>Fort William sits on the west coast of the Highlands, so I headed there to visit another fully vegan café, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thewildcatfortwilliam" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Wildcat</a>. This was the perfect destination, as the route took me along the banks of Loch Ness. There is no shortage of picturesque stops along the way, so it took a while to get from one end to the other, and I added many more visually stunning images to my digital photo album. Unfortunately, despite keeping a watchful eye on the lake I didn’t manage to catch the elusive Nessie. One day, maybe. With additional stops at the canal locks at Fort Augustus and Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland, I finally arrived at Fort William. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715853405/IMG_4599_165692000c.png" alt="Fort Augustus Locks in Scotland">Mark Flood At the café, I was presented with one of the largest displays of cakes and sweet pastries I’ve ever encountered. Despite this sugary distraction, I ordered something savoury. As I waited for the food to be served, I admired the framed photography hanging on the walls. Each image conveyed a poignant message around animal rights and environmental destruction and reinforced the need for us all to do better. With a hearty lentil soup and a sweet potato curry filling my stomach to bursting, I ordered more treats to takeaway. The cream-topped hot chocolate, more chocolate in cake form, and the raspberry-layered flapjack got my vote. I also couldn’t resist purchasing a couple of their bold statement bamboo coasters. These now live proudly on my coffee table, awaiting use by unsuspecting guests.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715853496/IMG_4600_fb4c0303a3.png" alt="Two bamboo coasters with pro-vegan messaging on them">Mark Flood <h2>Mountain top desserts</h2>On the final day of my trip, I headed to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cairngormmountain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Cairngorm Mountain</a>, one of the higher peaks accessible by car. I wanted to challenge myself and burn off some excess calories after several days of indulgence. In summer, there is lots on offer, including guided walks, biking, and even a mini railway. In winter, it transforms into the perfect destination for skiing.&nbsp; It was cold and wet when I went, so after my trek, I headed to the café for a hot drink to warm up. I was also a little peckish, but expectations were low. However, not only did they have a plant-based cheese and pesto sandwich, but there was also a cabinet full of delectable sweet treats from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/purebakeryhighland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pure Bakery Highland</a>. I ordered the chocolate and jammie dodger cakes and the gluten-free lemon cookie for my friends and I to share. We then sat in front of the crackling wood fire, warming our toes and savouring our energy-boosting treats.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715853605/IMG_4601_7b3f0f809b.png" alt="Gluten-free lemon cookie from Pure Bakery Highland">Mark Flood The trip certainly ended on a high. As I returned home, I reflected on the fact that wherever you travel, you can always be surprised by what vegan delights are waiting to be found. For more inspiration on vegan travel hotspots, you might be interested in destinations we’ve featured that are a little further afield than the Highlands, like <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/zurich-unveiled-an-unforgettable-72-hour-vegan-adventure" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Zurich</a>, or even <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/7-best-vegan-eateries-in-sydney-the-insider-s-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sydney</a>.

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Surprising vegan finds in the Scottish Highlands

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/thisisnotagameco?igsh=ZzZkMzRhMngxc2xk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">This Is Not A Game</a>, the world’s first vegan boardgaming company, is the brainchild of Rory Cockshaw, developed to help broach difficult topics (such as veganism) in easy ways. Rory has campaigned for Viva!, been Podcast Manager for Animal Rising, and went head-to-head with Jacob Rees-Mogg on GB News (which he spills the tea on). Currently, he is Founder’s Associate for Omni and gives his insights on the future of vegan pet food below. So without further ado, let’s dive in. V-Land UK (V-L): What inspired This Is Not A Game? And when is the official launch date?&nbsp; Rory Cockshaw (RC): The first game, Plants Against Veganity, is launching this July. It takes a tongue-in-cheek approach to common vegan tropes. The flagship card game is designed to make vegans and non-vegans find a little relief in what can be an emotionally fraught topic. Plants Against Veganity, inspired by classic after-hours party games, will also be perfect for helping activists unwind after events, or breaking down vegan-related barriers between friends and family. The inspiration for This Is Not A Game came in August 2023; my girlfriend Issy and I were playing Monopoly, and I realised you could make a fun, climate version of Monopoly - this was the first idea and the way the company developed.&nbsp; Even though we didn’t develop that game idea further, it made me realise you could twist games to make them more useful and educational around the climate and veganism. I wanted to combine those two elements and create board games and card games, funny things that make people smile, but also made people think. Because I think one of the best ways of making people think, is by making them laugh and smile.&nbsp; I’ve learned from many hours of doing street outreach that being more approachable and making people laugh breaks down any barriers; if games can do that for you, that’s a really useful tool - it’s not just a game. And that is why it’s called This Is Not A Game. It’s not saying what happens to animals is funny; it’s just highlighting some funny things about vegans and it makes us more relatable.&nbsp;&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715248983/IMG_4377_eee3383305.png" alt="Green and white coloured cards from ‘Plants Against Veganity,’ the first vegan card game from This Is Not A Game">Isabel Acosta V-L: You refer to yourself as an ethical vegan who enjoys not taking things too seriously all of the time. Is this ethos reflected in This Is Not A Game? Would you say your approach to encouraging veganism aligns with ‘carrot, not the stick’? RC: I suppose. I think I’ve been through the ringer a bit, as perhaps most vegans have. When I first went vegan, I was very much an ‘angry vegan,’ and difficult to talk to. As the years have gone by, I don’t think that approach works and tends to create division.&nbsp; If vegans and non-vegans can have conversations where we make fun of one another and neither of us go home offended, we show that we trust each other.&nbsp; By taking the mickey out of each other and ourselves there’s trust there that we’re not actually going to do you any harm. And they’ll have a good memory of their interaction with me as a vegan. People don’t really remember what you say, they just remember the way you made them feel.&nbsp; V-L: When did you become vegan and why? Do you feel doing a degree in Natural Sciences had anything to do with it?&nbsp; RC: I went vegetarian in 2019. After about six months as a vegetarian, Alex O’Connor did a talk at my university. I couldn’t refute any of his points, and combined with the void left by abandoning my religion and becoming an agnostic atheist, I went vegan early 2020 in my first year at uni.&nbsp; A lot of my justifications for veganism are actually built on evolutionary theory and evolutionary biology. It was an interesting, broad-ranging degree which enabled me to be able to attack things from every angle and offer some justification in tackling carnist arguments. V-L: This broad range of knowledge came across when you appeared on Jacob Rees-Mogg’s GB News show. How was that experience for you?&nbsp; RC: I’m still dining out on the story to this day! It was nowhere near as scary as I thought it was going to be. Politics aside, Jacob was very personable and polite. It highlighted the power of comedy - I find some of his jokes funny and he was laughing along with mine also, such as asking if I could get a lift back in his limo which he took graciously and laughed off. It really broke down the barrier between us.&nbsp; He was probably expecting me to come on and be aggressive and hateful towards him and for it to be a shouting match. And then I went on and opened by speaking to him in Latin, made a few jokes on and off camera, and we had a good time and a nice conversation.&nbsp; Quite a few comments below the <a href="https://youtu.be/VGzNzDHaXDw?si=g2Obpsr5keEFBeVN" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">video of our chat</a> were supportive of me. It plants a seed that not all vegans are the way they assume vegans are going to be. This aligns with the philosophy behind This Is Not A Game: not all vegans are who you think they’re going to be, we can make fun of ourselves, we can have good conversations, we can bond with people we thought we may not initially - Jacob Rees-Mogg is a perfect example of that.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715249168/IMG_4378_807e99cc85.png" alt="Rory Cockshaw appearing on Jacob Rees-Mogg’s State Of The Nation GB News show">GB News V-L: What changes do you envision in the vegan pet food market over the next 5-10 years?&nbsp; RC: Massive changes and huge opportunity in this market. There’s a lot going on at Omni. There’s so much more interest in plant-based pet food for dogs and cats. (Cats are more contentious due to certain vitamins and minerals that are much harder to get etc.) For dogs, it’s super easy to go vegan.&nbsp; I’ve got a 12-year-old dog. She’s been vegan for about five years and recently hiked 60 km around the Gower Peninsula in Wales. That’s not a dog suffering the ill effects of protein deficiency or anything like that! She’s so active and energetic. The oldest ever dog in the UK lived to 26 years old on a vegan diet.&nbsp; There’s so many brands of vegan pet food and I’m constantly discovering new vegan/vegetarian brands. At Omni we’re launching cultivated chicken cat food. It’s not technically vegan, but there’s no slaughter involved and the opportunity cost compared to business as usual, is an absolute no brainer - the few cells taken from a chicken egg once can produce billions of kilos of ‘chicken meat.’&nbsp; Cultivated meat is one of the most revolutionary things that could happen for animals, given that 1 in 5 animals is killed for the pet food industry globally. In my opinion, plant-based pet food is taking over the industry, so it’s a very exciting area to work in. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1715249303/IMG_4379_54f1f17a3a.jpg" alt="Rory Cockshaw holding his dog in front of an old building">Isabel Acosta ﻿V-L: You’re currently writing a book, Of Meat and Men - what is the main premise and what do you hope its impact may be? RC: My dissertation at uni was on the history of feminism and the animal rights movement, which are incredibly interconnected. I noticed when looking at the team that members of most animal rights or vegan-related organisations are about 90% female (by no means a bad thing, but where are all the men, beyond some higher profile members in the vegan movement?). Only 1 in 7 people in any given year taking part in Veganuary are male.&nbsp; The central question of my book is: Why is it so unmanly to be a vegan?&nbsp; The book is trying to tease apart all sorts of historical, philosophical, and sociological contexts: Why is veganism so set in these fixed gender role ways? And what is it in the particular troubles that men face when going vegan that we can quite easily break down by reframing how we see and communicate some things?&nbsp; I think also, this is partially where the comedy approach comes in - men do like to make fun of stuff; if you get six men to hang out, it’ll be about four seconds before one of them starts roasting another one of them. So, that’s where veganism comes in - actually being able to make fun of ourselves might make us more appealing to men who don’t like taking stuff too seriously.

Rory Cockshaw smiling and holding a microphone on stage in front of a crowd

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Rory Cockshaw: Creating a more vegan world, one laugh at a time

Touch down on the other side of the planet, a country renowned for its stunning beaches, an assortment of Mother Nature's beautifully crafted terrains, Vegemite, mullets, the outback, and unique creatures (that may or may not be trying to kill you!) to Sydney.&nbsp; While Sydney might not be as famous as Melbourne for its vegan status (boasting 4th in the world), the city holds its own in the vegan world. After one year of living in Sydney, every corner seems to be sprinkled with vegan-friendly choices. Every coffee shop is full of plant-milk varieties, and vegan options are staples on most menus; one suburb (Newtown) even shows off a street lined with vegan eateries. Choices? You’ve got plenty. Here are my seven go-to vegan eateries in Sydney. <h2>7. Oh My Days&nbsp;</h2>A revelation for anyone sceptical about vegan baking, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ohmydaysglebe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Oh My Days</a> has a treasure trove of pastries that could convert even the most devout traditionalists. Offering both sweet and savoury, each pastry is flaky, buttery and crafted to perfection; from almond croissants and cinnamon rolls to indulgent apple crumble danishes, they have mastered the art of vegan sweet treats, but it doesn't stop there; their savoury selection includes burgers, burritos, ‘chicken’ bahn mi, croissants, and everything in between prove that they can match and even surpass their traditional counterparts. My recommendations: Almond Croissant, Apple Crumble Danish, and Macadamia Milk Latte. <h2>6. Peace Harmony</h2>Nestled in the middle of Sydney's CBD, this dainty hole-in-a-wall restaurant has one colossal menu, with an array of Thai cuisine to choose from.&nbsp; Prepare for a taste explosion: Expertly seasoned dishes are robust and bursting with complex flavours that provide satisfying depth when hitting the palate. The staff at <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/peace-harmony-sydney-4465" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Peace Harmony</a> are attentive and eager to provide the perfect recommendation for you! My recommendation: Curry Puffs, Soy Chicken Satay, and The Jungle Curry (pictured below). <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1714165438/IMG_4292_9e377845a0.png" alt="‘The Jungle Curry’ from Peace Harmony, Sydney, Australia.">Callum Weir <h2>5. Gigi Pizzeria</h2>One of the standout stars of Newtown has redefined the vegan pizza landscape, everything that I assumed a plant-based pizza could be has been blown out of the water by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gigipizzeria/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Gigi</a>.&nbsp; Their commitment to authentic, flavourful, and entirely plant-based Italian cuisine is evident in every dish they serve.&nbsp; Fresh ingredients, infused with bold flavours neither overpowering nor understated, with a crust perfectly crisp created by the fire concealed in their centrepiece stone oven.&nbsp; Forget vegan cheese that doesn’t melt and sticks to the roof of your mouth like a film, Gigi’s has some witchcraft in that kitchen because this stuff is phenomenal. My recommendation: Salsiccia E Broccoli (Beyond sauce, garlic, and chilli sauteed broccoli, nut ricotta, mozzarisella, green vie parmesan and extra virgin olive oil). <h2>4. Little Turtle</h2>On the outskirts of Enmore, another Thai restaurant, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/littleturtlerestaurant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Little Turtle</a>, shines through with its inventive dishes while being committed to being health-conscious.&nbsp; Brimming with creative plant-based dishes, the menu leaves me both impressed and satisfied.&nbsp; You’re drawn in through the door by the smell of aromas that embody the essence of traditional Thai cooking with a modern twist. An ideal spot for both vegans and those looking to explore plant-based cuisine My recommendation: Hor Mok (pictured below), Trio of Baos, and Pineapple Rice.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1714165666/IMG_4293_bf83d02ac7.png" alt="Hor Mok (Thai vegan cuisine) from Little Turtle, Sydney, Australia.">Callum Weir <h2>3. Shift Eatery</h2>Tucked away in the streets of Surry Hills, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/shifteatery/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Shift</a> has become my morning go-to for coffee every day (I'm writing this while drinking their iced latte).&nbsp; Although quaint, it's a place that challenges and delights, showing that the shift towards veganism is not only easy but incredibly delicious.&nbsp; The moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the welcoming staff. Their friendliness and efficiency are the heartbeats of this little café.&nbsp; They've somehow perfected vegan boiled egg slices that are visually convincing and packed with an authentic flavour that leaves you both confused and amazed. Paired with the smoky, savoury vegan bacon, it’s an excitingly unreal combination. My recommendations: The Best Vegan Bacon and Eggs Bagel in The World. <h2>2. Vandal</h2>Located in the heart of Newtown, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vandal_sydney/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vandal</a> offers an extraordinary dining experience that transcends the typical ‘vegan tax.’ Their set menu, an absolute steal at $35, presents a six-course journey that escalates in flavour and innovation with each dish.&nbsp; The culinary adventure has an array of mindblowing creations, such as the Ceviche Tostada (pictured below) featuring ‘no-fin tuna’ that challenges your taste buds in the best way possible, both in texture and flavour - this dish sets the tone for a menu full of surprises.&nbsp; Vandal is more than just a dining spot; it celebrates the potential of vegan cuisine. It's a place where each course is a discovery, each flavour a revelation. For anyone looking to explore the heights of what plant-based cooking can achieve, Vandal is a must-visit destination. My recommendation: The Set Menu. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1714166094/IMG_4296_5461deb3d6.png" alt="‘Cerviche Tostada’ from Vandal, Sydney, Australia.">Callum Weir <h2>1. Funky Pies</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/funkypiesbondicafe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Funky Pies</a> in Bondi holds the title of my favourite spot in all of Sydney. Despite its modest size, this place is nothing short of incredible.&nbsp; I've indulged in every pie they offer, and they always impress.&nbsp; Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Funky Pies is a pioneer of vegan eating in Sydney. Their pies are second to none, the mash impossibly creamy, and the gravy satisfyingly thick.&nbsp; Each visit is accompanied by a warm smile, a friendly chat, and the assurance of enjoying the best pies around. Opting for a vegan pie elsewhere would feel like an insult. And I'm not alone in my adoration. As I scroll through Instagram as I write this, I see Travis Barker and Kourtney Kardashian Barker enjoying a meal at this quaint, family-owned establishment. I'm not the only one with great taste! Funky Pies isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a landmark in Sydney’s vegan scene, cherished by celebrities and locals alike. My recommendations: The Funky Chunky (shown in the feature image) or the Butterish Chic’n Pie with mash, peas and gravy.&nbsp; Spoilt for choice is an understatement in Sydney, with 53 vegan eateries on HappyCow (and that's without the array of restaurants showing off their plant-based options). The city promises vegan culinary delights, ensuring that you'll never leave hungry.&nbsp; If you're intrigued by veganism across the globe, why not explore the vegan scene across the pond in <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/exploring-medellin-s-plant-based-paradise-a-jam-packed-72-hours" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Medellín</a>, Colombia, or how about closer to home with a <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-guide-for-a-top-notch-trip-to-leeds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">top-notch trip to Leeds</a>?

Vegan pie, mash and gravy from Funky Pies, Bondi, Australia.

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7 best vegan eateries in Sydney: The insider’s guide

Art supplies have traditionally incorporated animal products for centuries. Combining oil paints with egg yolk has been found in the works of old master artists Sandro Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci during the Renaissance period when only a few art materials were used.&nbsp; Although more artists are searching for vegan-friendly materials, many go-to paints, inks, papers, and coloured pencils can still contain animal by-products, despite being labelled cruelty-free.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://instagram.com/winsorandnewton?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Winsor and Newton</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/dalerrowney1783?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Daler-Rowney</a>, and Daniel Smith are cruelty-free brands within the artist community, most of their ranges being labelled as vegan for easy shopping - just check which shades contain animal derivatives as the common non-vegan shades are black, dark blues, greys, and some warm-toned shades such as Raw Sienna and Raw Umber.&nbsp; Most of the top-quality Winsor and Newton Artists’ Oil range offers an array of vegan-friendly paints except for the shades Blue Black and Ivory Black. But watch out as none of their Artists’ quality Watercolour range is vegan as they contain ox gall, so opt for their other watercolour range - Cotman - where most of this range is listed as being vegan-friendly, apart from the shades Ivory Black, Raw Umber and Viridiun. If you are an avid watercolourist, <a href="https://instagram.com/dalerrowney1783?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Daniel Smith</a>, and <a href="https://instagram.com/qorwatercolors?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">QoR watercolours</a> are vegan-friendly, as they use synthetic binders.&nbsp;<h2>What animal byproducts are used within art mediums?</h2>Intense pigments can contain charred bones (PBk9) found in blacks, greys, and dark blues. Carmine, a red pigment, is derived from crushed cochineal beetles, which gives a vibrant colour and is used within dyes.&nbsp; Beeswax and animal fats can be used in crayons and pencils. Gelatine and ox gall are binding agents within paper, glue, ink, and watercolour paints. Shellac can be used within varnishes or Indian ink. Also, many animal hair fibres, such as sable, hog, mink, and rabbit, are used for paint brushes. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1711560461/Image_1_91_pic_2_61215f0599.png" alt="Woman in long-sleeved blouse painting">Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels<h2> </h2><h2>Which artist brands are fully vegan?</h2>The UK vegan-run brand <a href="https://instagram.com/culturehustle?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Culture Hustle</a>, created by the artist <a href="https://instagram.com/stuartsemple?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Stuart Semple</a>, produce vibrant powders to mix with water, acrylic medium or linseed oil and different types of acrylic paints. Their products are very opaque, lightfast, and archival; some are even scented. They also offer innovative newly released inks. Stuart famously created the ‘World’s pinkest pink’ and, after seven years in the making, curated the ‘blackest black’ paint known in the universe.&nbsp; Stuart Semple is obsessed with sharing unique art materials that elevate your work that has never been seen before by the human eye.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Copic</h2>A fully-vegan Japanese brand, <a href="https://instagram.com/copic_official?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Copic</a> produce every shade imaginable in fast-drying, transparent alcohol ink marker pens, that are well known for their excellent blending and building capabilities, vibrant colours and smooth finish - never compromising the fibres of the paper. The pens are refillable and come with replaceable nibs.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Polina Bright</h2>A talented professional Australian watercolourist, <a href="https://instagram.com/polina.bright?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Polina Bright</a>, offers a cruelty-free alternative to natural hair watercolour brushes; they are well-balanced, comfortable to hold, and produce consistent results.&nbsp; These brushes are highly absorbent and can hold water just as well, if not better, than hair watercolour brushes. They allow for bold washes and enhanced control for precise fine details and come in various sizes to suit your needs.&nbsp;<h2>Vegan canvas and art papers</h2>To reduce the absorbency and porosity of hot or cold pressed stretched and prepared papers, canvases and art papers are traditionally treated with a gelatine size, extracted from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals; but now several papers are treated with synthetic size instead.&nbsp; In 1965, the German brand <a href="https://instagram.com/hahnemuehle_global?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Hahnemühle</a> became the first paper manufacturer to produce paper exclusively for vegan artists. They use rags (cotton fibres) or pulp for all their paper mediums.&nbsp;<h2>Sustainable canvas and frames</h2>Reusing and recycling unwanted plywood is the perfect material to cut down to size and use as a canvas board for oil and acrylic painters using the smooth side to paint upon.&nbsp; To prep a plywood board, firstly,&nbsp;use a paint wash and allow it to dry.&nbsp;Then, build upon the plywood with your paints.&nbsp;Oil and acrylic paints adhere well to wood, providing bright, saturated colours with a durable finish. Alternatively, thick white linens and cotton material can be stretched and nailed over a simple wooden frame creating the perfect canvas to paint on. Make your own frames with unwanted wood or find frames in charity or second-hand shops to upcycle at home.&nbsp;<h2>What to check for</h2>Investing in high-quality art supplies helps you create your best long-lasting pieces full of life and saves you money in the long term.&nbsp; More companies are making a change, developing eco-friendly and cruelty-free strategies to ensure their products are saleable to a broader market. The <a href="https://instagram.com/vegantrademark?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Trademark</a> (sunflower logo) certifies products are vegan, and the <a href="https://instagram.com/leapingbunnyprogram?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Leaping Bunny</a> logo certifies a product is cruelty-free. If you express yourself creatively through art mediums and crafts but are conscious about what may be hidden within art materials, you can contact a company directly to certify a paint, pastel pallet or paper is vegan-friendly. If you’re a creative, discover how your <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-your-creative-career-choices-contribute-to-vegan-activism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">career choices can contribute to vegan activism</a>, and follow these vegan activist Insta <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/art-as-activism-vegan-artists-to-follow-on-instagram" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">artists</a>!

Paint brushes with paint on them on a partly painted canvas with multicoloured dollops of paints in the background

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Dear Creatives, what’s in your art supplies? Ensure it stays vegan

Twentieth Century Fox/Everett/Rex Features

From Flipper to Free Willy, Beethoven to Babe, generations have grown up watching animal characters on screen. But behind the scenes, there is a darker reality that many viewers are unaware of: the exploitation and abuse of animals in the entertainment industry. According to the <a href="https://www.nhes.org/animals-in-film-and-televison/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">National Humane Education Society</a>, animals in film and television are often subjected to injury, death, stress, neglect, and deprivation of their natural needs and behaviours. They are obtained from various sources, such as wildlife traders, zoos, circuses, or breeders, and are trained using harsh methods such as electric shocks, whips, or food deprivation.&nbsp; Animals are forced to perform unnatural or <a href="https://www.freedomforanimals.org.uk/tv-and-film" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">dangerous acts</a>, such as jumping through fire, fighting with other animals, or being exposed to loud noises or explosions. They are confined in small cages or trailers, transported long distances, exposed to different climates and environments, and often discarded or killed when they are no longer useful or profitable. Animals are not props or commodities. They are sentient beings who deserve respect and compassion. They are not here for our entertainment. <h2>‘No Animals Were Harmed’ </h2>American Humane is an organisation with the authority to monitor the use of animals in American-produced film and television productions. However, their oversight is limited. They do not have the power to stop or prevent animal cruelty, but only to report it. They do not monitor all productions, but only those that request their presence and pay for their services, and do not access all scenes involving animals, only those filmed in the United States. In the past, it has been reported that their ‘<a href="https://sentientmedia.org/animals-in-entertainment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">No Animals Were Harmed</a>’ label was used even when animals have <a href="https://aldf.org/article/animals-in-film-capitalizing-on-suffering/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">suffered</a>. A tiger used in Life of Pi almost drowned on set but still received a ‘No Animals Were Harmed’ award from American Humane. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1711556945/Image_1_90_pic_2_4f35823f0a.png" alt="Videographer holding a camera in a dark room">Kyle Loftus/Pexels <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Off-screen harm</h2>The use of animals in film and television also has negative impacts on animals off-screen. It can create false or misleading impressions of animals’ personalities, intelligence, emotions, and needs. It can encourage people to buy or adopt certain breeds or species of animals without considering their suitability. It can increase the demand for exotic or endangered animals as pets or trophies and contributes to the decline of wild animal populations and habitats. The 1996 live-action adaptation of 101 Dalmatians revolves around Cruella’s obsession with making a coat out of the fur of Dalmatian puppies.&nbsp;The film used real dogs for some scenes and caused a <a href="https://soapboxie.com/social-issues/The-Dalmatian-Syndrome-Part-2#:~:text=Within%20a%20year%20of%20the%20movie%27s%20release%2C%20these,Bay%2C%20Florida%2C%20had%20an%20alarming%20surge%20of%20762%25." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">surge</a> in demand for Dalmatian puppies as pets, which led to many of them being abandoned or mistreated by irresponsible owners. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">TV</h2>Sometimes watching TV feels like we’re living in a dystopian nightmare, as modern shows continue to abuse animals for entertainment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since the show aired in 2002, I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!&nbsp;has received thousands of viewer complaints and heavy campaigning from animal charities and wildlife experts, including Chris Packham, for animal cruelty and mindless exploitation. Although, after much public outcry, it stopped the celebs from eating live creatures, it continues to feature and harm them.&nbsp;19,000 people supported the RSPCA’s Unhappy Campers: I'm a Celeb <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/campaign/imaceleb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">campaign</a> in November 2022, and the fight continues.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The RSPCA reiterates, “Since <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/campaign/imaceleb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">I'm a Celebrity</a> was first aired, animals have been dropped, thrown, handled roughly, crushed, chased, overcrowded, scared by contestants and prevented from escaping stressful experiences.”&nbsp;&nbsp; The RSPCA reiterates, “Since <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/campaign/imaceleb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">I'm a Celebrity</a> was first aired, animals have been dropped, thrown, handled roughly, crushed, chased, overcrowded, scared by contestants and prevented from escaping stressful experiences.” <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1711557667/Image_2_24_pic_3_ea7c43b326.png" alt="2023 I’m a Celebrity. . . Get Me Out of Here! Contestants">ITV <h2 class="ql-align-justify">CGI</h2>CGI and special effects have advanced significantly where photorealistic animals are created, proving there is no need to use animals for entertainment. CGI is not new and entered Hollywood in the <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/how-cgi-has-taken-animals-out" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">1970s</a>, being used in productions such as Westworld and the early Star Wars films.&nbsp; Exotic animals have traditionally been exploited in cinema, whereby in the 1980s, there were around <a href="https://interestingengineering.com/culture/how-cgi-has-taken-animals-out" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">ten exotic animal</a> companies in the Los Angeles area where studios procured animals for film. Now, due to the increase in CGI, there are two, and hopefully, this will become zero as more productions use technology to render animal characters.&nbsp; <a href="https://nofilmschool.com/cocaine-bear-cgi-bear-breakdown" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Cocaine Bear</a> used CGI bears, which not only stops the exploitation of bears but also allows more artistic autonomy when directing these characters. <a href="https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/fantasy/his-dark-materials-armoured-bears-behind-the-scenes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">His Dark Materials</a> used CGI and puppetry to bring magnitude and choreography to their bear character.&nbsp; In a 2020 interview with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cv8l8gHG6qQ&amp;t=150s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Still Watching Netflix</a>, Bridgerton’s Regé-Jean Page admitted that “a bunch of the horses in the series are fake.” The actors sat in carriages in a studio using greenscreens in the background, again, proving there is no need to use real animals. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1711558259/Image_3_4_pic_4_4a92389c80.png" alt="Cocaine Bear promotional film poster graphic"> <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Animals on social media</h2>Between 2020 and 2021, The <a href="https://www.smaccoalition.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: rgb(254, 254, 254);">Social Media Animal Cruelty Coalition</a> (SMACC) documented 5480 individual links to videos containing animal cruelty content on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Unfortunately, social media plays a part in the complicit exploitation of animals. If you engage with animal content, such as a video of a pet playing, the platform’s algorithms will likely feed you more animal content, which could result in animal cruelty videos disguised as animal rescue. There has been a growing trend of fake animal rescue content, including wild and exotic animals, whereby creatures are put into dangerous situations so that a rescue attempt can be captured.&nbsp; Additionally, content whereby animals are made to perform or are in captivity is common viewing, and due to the sprawling nature of social media, it is difficult to monitor and control.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; World Animal Protection urges users to help curb online cruelty with their <a href="https://www.worldanimalprotection.org.uk/blogs/online-animal-cruelty" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: rgb(254, 254, 254);">five steps</a>, including reporting any concerns to <a href="https://www.smaccoalition.com/report-a-concern" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: rgb(254, 254, 254);">SMACC</a>, and not watching or sharing content.&nbsp; As consumers of entertainment media, we must be aware of the ethical issues involved in using animals for our amusement and question the sources and methods of obtaining and ‘training’ animals. At the very least, we can boycott productions that exploit or harm animals by not watching. Take to social media to voice our concerns and write complaints. We can support productions that use animatronics, CGI, or documentary footage of animals in their natural habitats.&nbsp; For vegan-approved entertainment, we recommend these <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-captivating-vegan-podcasts-worth-tuning-into" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan podcasts</a> and binge-worthy, cruelty-free <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/too-good-to-miss-vegan-shows-to-binge-watch" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan shows</a>!

Scene from Life of Pi where the protagonist is in a boat in the ocean with a Bengal tiger

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Are film, TV, and social media complicit in animal cruelty?

johnandersonphoto/Getty Images via Canva Pro

As Dr. Michael Greger, Founder of NutritionFacts.org, points out: Veganism only states what you exclude from your diet, not what you include. So, eating a vegan diet does not inherently equate to eating an optimal diet for human health.&nbsp; The most respected proponents of a plant-based way of eating tend to champion a predominantly whole food, plant-based diet, rather than a vegan diet. A vegan diet is not a panacea. The quality of the diet determines its effect.&nbsp; <h2>What makes a vegan diet healthy or unhealthy?&nbsp;</h2>Plant-based index (PDI) is often used to measure this; there’s a healthy PDI and unhealthy PDI. According to Plant-Based Nutrition in Clinical Practice: a healthy PDI emphasises ‘healthy plant foods’ such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, tea and coffee, and vegetable oils. It’s associated with a significant reduction in several diseases including major killers such as cancer and heart disease, as well as all-cause mortality.&nbsp; Those who follow a healthy PDI may find it easier to lose or maintain weight due to a high intake of low energy-density, high nutrient-density foods. Obesity increases the risk of morbidity and mortality, and as reducing weight by 5-10% in obese individuals confers a clinically meaningful reduction, this is no small thing. An unhealthy PDI emphasises ‘unhealthy plant foods’ such as fruit juice, refined grains, sweets and desserts, and sugar-sweetened beverages and limits ‘healthy plant foods.’ This way of eating is associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality and several diseases.&nbsp; An unhealthy plant-based diet isn’t generally considered to be much better than the ‘standard Western diet.’ <h2>Are there other diets which are as good as a healthy PDI?</h2>Mediterranean or DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) are consistently shown to be good ways to eat for individual health; perhaps as good, or better than, a healthy plant-based diet, depending on what is being measured. A Mediterranean or DASH diet is almost certainly better for individual health than eating an unhealthy plant-based diet.&nbsp; <h2>Is plant-centric sufficient for optimal individual health?</h2>What do a vegan, Mediterranean, and DASH approach have in common? They are all plant-centric; sometimes all three approaches are defined as a plant-based diet. One unequivocal point is eating lots of plants is good for health. They’re higher in antioxidants on average than animal foods (which is important as chronic inflammation is implicated in diseases). Also, only plants contain fibre, which is essential for optimal health; it’s not feasible to get the 30g fibre RDA without plants.&nbsp; As Dr. Greger often states when discussing whether something is healthy: “Compared to what?” If you enjoyed this, check out our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/category/health-and-wellbeing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">health &amp; wellbeing</a> section for more content like this.

Close-up of vibrant blueberries and apples

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Is a vegan diet inherently and uniquely healthy?

I have been a vegan for over fourteen years, so I have been to countless vegan restaurants in that time, and I can honestly say that <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mahalosthlm/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(78, 167, 46); background-color: transparent;">Maholo</a>, in Stockholm, is one of my favourites. It stands out in so many ways.&nbsp; Established in 2015, Maholo warmly proclaims, “All our food is made with a lot of love for the environment, the animals, and for our wonderful guests.” And I’d add, it’s a wonder of plant-based eating.&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2>Great menu with a great vibe&nbsp;</h2>My favourite thing about the menu is its repertoire of colour and imagination. Everything looks so impressive and photogenic. I must have taken at least ten photos of every dish I ate.&nbsp; There’s an impressive variety of food and drink choices which are fresh, healthy, and exciting. From breakfast to desserts, there's something to suit your fancy. The inclusion of creative smoothie bowls shows the commitment to healthy eating at any time of the day.&nbsp;&nbsp; The restaurant has two sites in Stockholm, on opposite ends of the city, so that doubles the output of mouth-watering food! The atmosphere and the staff at Mahalo are welcoming and accommodating. My girlfriend and I loved every minute spent there; we visited three times over the getaway. Here’s everything we ate: <h2>Dreamy dinners&nbsp;</h2>On our first visit, we ordered ‘Peas &amp; Love,' a falafel dish with a cabbage salad and a tasty vegan Greek-style cheese. We split that with a juicy java bean burger, the ‘Burger Queen,’ with sweet potato fries and a chipotle mayo.&nbsp; We loved these fries so much that on our second visit we ordered the loaded version, which came with black beans, cashew parmesan and red onion; we had this with a ‘Hooked on a T**na Sandwich,’ a tasty, lemony, curried tuna alternative on toast - one of the best fish replacements I’ve tried. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1710071974/Image_1_18_b4eb04c9ce.png" alt="Loaded sweet potato fries and vegan tuna on toast with avocado and salad from Maholo, Stockholm.">Sean Barrs <h2>Delicious desserts</h2>The desserts did not let us down either. On our first visit, we had banana bread served with blueberry and blackberry compote and sweet cream.&nbsp; We tried the raw blueberry cheesecake the second time, and it rounded the meal off perfectly. The base was made of dates, which made it feel healthy (for a dessert!), yet it was still sweet enough to feel like a treat.&nbsp; <h2>Bountiful breakfast</h2>We returned the next morning for breakfast and ordered a mango smoothie bowl decorated with granola and more fresh fruit, a stack of pancakes with cream and raspberry sauce, and a croissant filled with cream and covered in strawberry sauce. Breakfast was all so delicious and paired perfectly with strong black coffee. Yes, it was as good as it sounds, and the photos don’t do it justice. We ate loads but felt good afterwards.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1710072070/Image_2_6_9b97a46438.png" alt="Plate of vegan pancakes with fruit, cream, and raspberry sauce next to a smoothie bowl with granola and fresh fruit from Mahalo, Stockholm.">Sean Barrs <h2>Final thoughts&nbsp;</h2>I wanted to try everything Mahalo had to offer (as it’s my dream restaurant). Unfortunately, there wasn't enough time to try one (or two!) of everything, but we did get to try a large portion of the menu. Everything we tried was fantastic, and I highly recommend this restaurant if you’re visiting Stockholm.&nbsp; If you want to find out more about Mahalo, you can do so by visiting <a href="https://mahalosthlm.se/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(78, 167, 46); background-color: transparent;">their website</a>. Stockholm was a great place to visit as a vegan, and if you’re looking for more vegan-friendly destinations here are some recommendations in <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/discovering-the-secrets-of-lisbon-as-a-vegan-tourist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(78, 167, 46); background-color: transparent;">Lisbon</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/zurich-unveiled-an-unforgettable-72-hour-vegan-adventure" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(78, 167, 46); background-color: transparent;">Zurich</a>.

 ‘Burger Queen’ (vegan burger, sweet potato fries and dip) from Maholo, Stockholm.

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Mahalo: Stockholm’s scrumptious vegan paradise

Vegan activism takes many forms from campaigns, marches, outreach, and public speaking, to making plant-based food for your non-vegan friends. To be vegan is to be active in striving for a world that does not exploit animals, and instead, acknowledges them as sentient beings, capable of thoughts, feelings, and emotions, just like us.&nbsp; Creative writing is a powerful tool that can shine a light on worldly issues. Vegan poetry can give a voice to the animals who cannot defend themselves and inspire others to do so. Highlighting this conscious disconnect from non-human animals, as well as providing hope for the future, vegan poetry is a powerful form of activism. We had the chance to interview some vegan poets and discuss the importance of activism through poetry. <h2>J. H. Dickinson</h2>J. H. Dickinson is an author, researcher, therapist, artist, and creative writing facilitator from Northumberland. Dickinson is an advocate for human and non-human animals as well as the planet. Her poetry explores ideas of post-humanist thinking to spark conversation about socially challenging subjects.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1710071264/Image_1_17_06f2030852.png" alt="J. H. Dickinson (vegan poet) in a room inside"> Dickinson’s collection of poems “I, Animal: Examining the Animal-Human Divide” explores different themes, including hunting, reimagining, and hoping to expose and evolve from the current societal views on non-human animals. Dickinson’s poetry collection is a powerful piece of vegan activism, revealing the truth to the non-vegan about what these animals go through, and reinspiring the already-vegan.&nbsp; Julie was inspired to start writing vegan poetry in 2017 in response to the despair she felt after campaigning against the 2017/18 Taiji dolphin drive hunt, spending every night on social media to draw attention to the seasonal drives. She also campaigned to support Sea Shepherd. Julie found herself periodically scribbling away, in desperation to vent. The “Blue Cove” poem in the book was born from this process and experience.&nbsp; Julie explains how poetry is fit for purpose in tackling emotive and emotional ideas - connecting intimately with the reader and is a powerful medium for persuading and engaging.&nbsp; After seeing footage of a calf trying to get back through a fence to a group of heifers, Julie decided vegetarianism was no longer enough and went vegan. Other images of calves in a state of neglect, what Dickinson coined as the “sobering reality I could no longer avoid,” made her ditch dairy. As for activists, Dickinson was influenced by Jo-Anne McArthur (and her beautiful yet haunting photography), Melanie Joy, Priya Sawhney, Joaquin Phoenix, and going back to Tolstoy.&nbsp; Julie’s favourite poem in the collection is “From an old tin roof,” about a pigeon who lands on the poet’s roof with “Grey and white feathers, dehydrated, done.”&nbsp;&nbsp; “That little pigeon,” Julie says, “was as important to me as any living thing. . . because we all live and die. . . and there is something precious and vital about that.”&nbsp; We took a closer look at one of the poems in the collection: “Earthly Child.” I breathe deep green thoughts and move&nbsp;at a pace uncontrolled.I refuse to strip bare my home.To kill the creatures that walk, fly,swim and slither. My usual human self fallsaway, broken, changedby evident lack of capitalist consumption.&nbsp; I drift in silken rivulets of&nbsp;light,fractingthroughwater, surface,and deep bodied blue. I am earth and gravel and gritand bone of ancestor.I am history and pulseof memory,&nbsp;both humanand animal sentient.&nbsp; I connect and feel rooted,gnarly, and heavywith plant material.I sense, I infuseand touch lifewith a deeper resonance. Earthly infantile,&nbsp;they call me ‘child,’human sentimentalist,&nbsp;insane vegan. But I am falling,&nbsp;dreaming.&nbsp;Humming throng ofvibration.&nbsp; To my original heart-casaI return.I will guard, protect,&nbsp;sing a song of truthof sentient inhabitantsand earthly home.&nbsp; “Earthly Child” is one of the oldest in the collection. Julie wrote it during a walk near Hadrian’s Wall. “Earthly Child,” Julie explains, is about “being symbiotic with the planet, connected, compassionate, with child-like curiosity, senses afire and attuned to everything, becoming free and whole.” <h2>P. G. Holroyd&nbsp;</h2>P. G. Holroyd writes punchy, unapologetic, and to-the-point poetry. He states, “There is no excuse for animal abuse in this day and age.”&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1710071327/Image_2_5_ae423af6fb.png" alt="P. G. Holroyd (vegan poet) outside by the coast on a sunny day"> Holroyd started writing poetry in 2021 after protesting at Camp Beagle as puppies were being bred solely for experimentation. Holroyd’s poetry takes an active stance in exposing humanity for its awful treatment of animals. No animal is left out in Holroyd’s collection, as he tackles speciesism with a provocative voice “to make non-vegans think about their food and the way animals are treated.” With over 100 vegan/animal rights poems as well as 150 poems on other subjects, Holroyd is constantly writing, explaining, “More poems are still flooding my brain.” Holroyd shares how his written words read with conviction and have influenced other vegans to start writing their poetry; he has read his poetry at many events, including N.A.R.D in Bournemouth in 2022.&nbsp; Holroyd was not inspired by any activists to go vegan, and did his research after giving up most meat in 1985, stating how “4 years ago, something just clicked.” He states he was angry at himself for not realising the horrors of the meat, dairy, and egg industry sooner, and ponders that maybe some of that anger and passion fuels the poems he writes.&nbsp; Holroyd tries to make his poems almost songlike, with flow to them, “The V-Word” and “Humane Slaughter” are a couple of his favourites to read out loud.&nbsp; V-Land took a closer look at one of the poems, “Poultry Poetry,” in his collection GreenBeard's Vegan Verse: A Collection of 35 vegan and animal rights poems. Just a few weeks old and you have them for dinnerDoes that make you feel proud, do you feel like a winner?These helpless babies have just been bornAnd in just a few weeks their bodies are wornFattened so quickly they outgrow their legsUnable to stand, bred for meat, not for eggsThen turned into burgers and nuggets and thingsAnd you gorge on their bodies, their legs and their wings Chickens and turkeys and ducks and geeseYou suck on their bones, all covered in greaseTheir feed funnelled in as if fuelling a truckYou eat the same way ‘cause you don’t give a fuckTheir overstuffed bodies make them look fully grownTheir lives just begun, and to slaughter they’re thrownYou call it a feast and give thanks for your mealBut those lives weren’t given, the true word is a steal You say it’s up to you, what you eat is your choiceBut what would they choose if they had a voice?They’re sentient beings, they can feel, they can thinkAnd we reduce them to scraps to be washed down the sinkYou see them as something, not the someone they areSome inanimate object, like a bike or a carIf we could see through their eyes, do you know what we’d find?Monsters do exist in this world, and they’re called Mankind Holroyd explains how “Poultry Poetry” was written to highlight the fact that these birds are abused from day one, exposing humankind for their violence, and calling them monsters.&nbsp; This poem asks the reader to look through the eyes of the birds, and in doing so, simulates this world of enduring violence to make individuals think about the consequences of their consumption. “Poultry Poetry” is a strong piece of vegan activism with its questioning tone and profanity making it extremely provocative, especially when read out loud.&nbsp; Both collections are inspiring pieces of activism. Contrasting this ‘vegan voice,’ with the voice of society and giving the animals a voice, Dickinson and Holroyd shine a light on this societal disconnect and demand change towards a vegan world.&nbsp; Want to read more about vegan activism? Check out our interview with Earthling Ed who <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/ed-winters-shares-why-he-s-compelled-to-champion-vegan-activism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">shares why he’s compelled to champion vegan activism</a> and be inspired by <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/art-as-activism-vegan-artists-to-follow-on-instagram" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">five activist artists</a>.

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Activism through poetry: Giving a voice to the voiceless

If you are visiting Dublin you need to understand two very simple things: pub culture and brunch culture. The first one is easy: you go to a pub, order a few pints of Guinness and have a laugh with your mates. But brunch culture in Dublin means business and there is an endless selection to choose from, so here is our ultimate guide to help you find the best vegan brunch in Dublin.<h2> </h2><h2 class="ql-align-justify">Groundstate Coffee</h2><a href="http://www.instagram.com/groundstatecoffee" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Groundstate Coffee</a> is a stone’s throw away from the <a href="https://instagram.com/homeofguinness?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Guinness Storehouse</a>. Their urban interiors, a well-thought-out mix of exposed brick, concrete, wood and lots of plants pair perfectly with the smell of single-origin coffee they roast in-house. We loved the tasty Smokey Tofu Sambo; the Sriracha Tofu Scramble sounds delicious too!<h2> </h2><h2 class="ql-align-justify">Two Pups Coffee</h2>You can find specialty coffee and seasonal food at <a href="http://www.instagram.com/two_pups_coffee" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Two Pups Coffee</a> which is also in the heart of <a href="http://www.instagram.com/thelibertiesdublin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Liberties</a>. They source from local businesses that follow ethical and sustainable practices. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">SLICE</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/slicestoneybatter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">SLICE</a> is located in the neighbourhood of Stoneybatter, a quirky little fortress of cool, not too far from the city centre. We suggest you try their veganised pea and avocado rayu, veganised Hicks Pudding x Miso Mushrooms, or the soup of the day. And if you have a sweet tooth, they tend to have vegan treats too (such as the vegan Chocolate Orange Banana Bread pictured below). <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1710070968/Image_1_16_4963261a74.png" alt="Six slices of vegan Chocolate Orange Banana Bread on a wooden surface from SLICE, Dublin">SLICE <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Bibi’s Café</h2><a href="http://www.instagram.com/bibiscafe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Bibi’s Café</a> is a tiny spot in Portobello with a limited offer for vegan options, but it is still worth the trip. You will love their cute interiors and if you’re lucky enough to be greeted by the sun, you can enjoy a lovely coffee out on their terrace. Try their tartine organic sourdough with homemade jam, their soup of the day or ask for a veganised smashed avocado. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">The Fumbally&nbsp;</h2>To complete our best vegan brunch hotspots in Dublin, visit <a href="https://thefumbally.ie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">The Fumbally</a>, a neighbourhood café in The Liberties.&nbsp; Their space has a wide open kitchen, mismatched furniture and a fresh produce market, offering some of the best vegan brunch options. The atmosphere is cosy and the sense of community is in the air. Their menu is healthy and made up of mostly local ingredients.&nbsp; The Fumbally offers a vegetarian menu that can be easily veganised: try their lentils, salads, and focaccia sandwiches. However, their main star is the Tuscan beans - a plate of cannellini and borlotti beans on sourdough bread with fermented cabbage and vegan parmesan; unarguably the best in town! And their wine shelves and sourdough stand are just the perfect addition to take home so make sure not to leave empty-handed. (The Fumbally is the only vegan eatery on our list which unfortunately appears to be closed on St Patrick’s Day; we kept it in as celebrations go on in the days leading up to St Patrick’s Day in Dublin.)&nbsp; If you’re planning to visit the atmospheric city of Dublin, good weather is not something the city can guarantee but good food… oh boy! If you dig this article, check out our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/category/travel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">travel</a> section for more content like this.

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Fuel up for St Patrick’s Day: Top spots for vegan brunch in Dublin

Veganism and plant-based culture are on the rise. Below are five books curated, ranked, and honestly reviewed to help get you started on your plant-based journey - and what better time than World Book Day? <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Should We All Be Vegan?: A primer for the 21st century&nbsp;</h2><a href="http://www.mollywatsonwriter.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Molly Watson</a> wrote this insightful book providing the truth about the conditions and consequences of intensive animal farming. Molly Watson, a San Francisco food writer and editor, has written various health-focused books and is passionate about ethical consumerism. This vegan book highlights animal cruelty beyond slaughter, describes physical distortions and genetic engineering, and grants true insight into the condition of animals within factories. If you aren't already aware of animal husbandry and farming, this book explains the revolution of animal culture and how it has affected its environment. The book also paints a picture of the positive effects of veganism within vegan fashion, vegan celebrities encouraging the lifestyle and musicians such as Morrissey. It’s on the lighter side of nonfiction, including many photographs and real-time references.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Becoming Vegan</h2>Published in 1984, was written by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/brendadavisrd/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Brenda Davis,</a> a registered dietitian, plant-based pioneer and public speaker. This vegan book is valuable for someone who would like an overview of the benefits of following a vegan diet and lifestyle. Davis describes vegan ethics as a predetermined right within our “philosophers and spiritual leaders” already leading the way as they had emphasised compassion towards animals. This vegan book provides a thorough background on vegan and vegetarian history and serves as a definitive and expert guide. Becoming Vegan again describes accurate statistics on the poultry/dairy industry and fish welfare - it is not for the faint of heart or to be recommended as a beginner's guide to veganism.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">How To Go Vegan: The why, the how, and everything you need to make going vegan easy</h2>A short guide created by the founders of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/weareveganuary/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Veganuary</a>, the UK charity founded in 2014 by Jane Land and Matthew Glover. Veganuary is a charity with a global reach that encourages people around the world to go vegan for one month in January. This book answers all of the questions of how and why you should become vegan and offers a helping hand while transitioning. This book contains many vegan ambassadors who have shared their personal inspirational stories and the benefits of becoming vegan. How to Go Vegan describes the suffering of animals for meat, milk and eggs and provides a backstory to animal welfare standards in other countries such as the US, Switzerland, Sweden and Canada. How to Go Vegan is a great starter guide and even includes mini notes in case you desire a short read. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Why Veganism Matters: The Moral Value of Animals</h2>This book grants a philosophical outlook on veganism; written by <a href="https://www.abolitionistapproach.com/about/gary-l-francione/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Gary L. Francione</a>, a teacher of animal rights theory for over twenty-five years and founder of <a href="https://www.howdoigovegan.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">HowDoIGoVegan.com</a>. This book poses social questions and compares and describes being vegan as the baseline for animal rights advocacy. He also highlights vital animal ethicists such as Peter Singer and Tom Regan. The book is heavy reading making many references to social constructs, protecting rights, and legal rights of animals.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Yes Ve-gan!: A blueprint for vegan living&nbsp;</h2>A book by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/selene.nelson/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Selene Nelson</a>, a British author, journalist and vegan activist. This influential starter guide is one of the best vegan books as an introduction to veganism which is easy to navigate and read. This book gives us a clear insight into environmental damage happening to our planet. Nelson also describes her own story creating a relatable and down-to-earth narrative for those who want to live a kinder and more sustainable life. This book ends on a positive note, urging readers to change to a vegan diet as it will cut greenhouse gasses and global acidification.&nbsp;&nbsp; If you liked learning about these 5 compelling vegan books, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/the-greening-of-literature-perspectives-of-a-vegan-publisher" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">the greening of literature: perspectives of a vegan publisher</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-top-tips-for-self-publishing-a-vegan-book" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">5 top tips for self-publishing a book</a>.

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Dive into plant-based culture with these 5 compelling vegan books


Five dog breeds are classified as banned in the UK: the Japanese Tosa (pictured above), Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Pit Bull Terrier, and as of January 1st 2024, XL Bullies. The ban on these breeds falls under Breed Specific Legislation (BSL), but what does Breed Specific Legislation mean?&nbsp; According to the <a href="https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1991/65/contents" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dangerous Dogs Act 1991</a>, it is illegal to breed, sell, give away, or abandon a dog classed as a banned breed. It is also against the law to own a banned breed unless the owner has been granted an <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/whatwedo/endcruelty/changingthelaw/bsl#:~:text=The%20courts%20are%20now%20permitted,sets%20out%20the%20following%20conditions." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">exemption certificate</a>, has 3rd party liability insurance, neuters the dog, and adheres to keeping them muzzled and on a leash when out in public for the dog's lifetime. With strict rules in place for banned breeds, does Breed Specific Legislation serve its purpose in keeping the general public safe?&nbsp; According to many experts and organisations throughout the UK, the adamant response is that no, it does not. <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/campaign/bsl#:~:text=We%20are%20not%20alone%20in,and%20louder%20than%20ever%20before." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The RSPCA report</a>ed: “BSL fails to protect public safety and hasn’t achieved what it set out to do. Hospital admissions due to dog bites continue to rise year on year and tragic fatalities as a result of dog incidents have continued. [Between 1999-2019] the number of hospital admissions for the treatment of dog bites increased by 154%, despite the prohibition of certain types of dogs.” A troubling concern with the government's approach to tackling dog attacks, is that Breed Specific Legislation fails to address one of the leading causes of dangerous dog behaviour; irresponsible dog ownership. Dogs have specific needs, and when these needs aren’t met, just like a human, their mental state changes, often resulting in physical changes too. One of the most recent, relevant studies shows that <a href="https://www.injuryjournal.com/article/0020-1383(96)83411-5/fulltext" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">banned breeds are no more likely to bite than other breeds</a>.&nbsp; Furthermore, <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/297447/dog-bite-victims-occurances-in-england/#:~:text=There%20were%2021%2C918%20dog%20attacks,during%20the%20provided%20time%20period." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">dog attacks happen regularly across the country</a>, many of which are <a href="https://www.merseyside.police.uk/news/merseyside/news/2023/two-people-charged-after-woman-died-following-dog-attack-in-netherton/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">not by banned breeds</a>. BSL targets specific breeds as a way of solving the problem, when the sobering reality is that <a href="https://metro.co.uk/2024/01/17/petrified-boy-face-ripped-off-christmas-eve-dog-attack-20127602/?ico=related-posts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">any dog can attack</a>, not just the breeds that the government have deemed to be a danger to the public.&nbsp; So what is the solution to the rising dog attacks in the UK? Experts are adamant that <a href="https://www.vettimes.co.uk/news/academic-calls-for-licensing-to-address-aggressive-dogs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">responsible ownership is vital to reduce dog attacks</a>. Caring for a dog is a long-term commitment of ten to twenty years (breed dependant), and it is vital to understand what is involved before getting a dog of any breed. Before rehoming, rescuing, or buying a dog, potential dog owners need to ask these questions. •&nbsp;Can I <a href="https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-advice/cost-owning-dog" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">afford</a> to feed, home, and care for a dog?•&nbsp;Can I provide a dog a <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/environment" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">safe home</a> to live in?•&nbsp;Can I make time to properly <a href="https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/how-much-exercise-does-your-dog-need?psafe_param=1&amp;_$ja=tsid:%7Ccid:1403862223%7Cagid:61029692051%7Ctid:dsa-383790862483%7Ccrid:269371529025%7Cnw:g%7Crnd:10107132369872979937%7Cdvc:c%7Cadp:%7Cmt:%7Cloc:1006764&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAzoeuBhDqARIsAMdH14FaBQiOlAGfmLDu4IWgekXEM-rdpdnIBw0z-sOLCP0laJ4y28FRHSoaAu05EALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">exercise</a> a dog regularly as they require?•&nbsp;Can I make time to <a href="https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/training" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">train</a> and <a href="https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/how-to-play-with-your-dog?amp&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAzoeuBhDqARIsAMdH14EPqqtKp8KRCqyxYdsdHwS3KCCh-eIPvEQS4ucgK-rRPko1NUSih2YaAn5MEALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">play</a> with a dog?•&nbsp;Am I physically and emotionally available to <a href="https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/understanding-your-dog/make-your-dog-happy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">love and care</a> for a dog?&nbsp; If the answer is no to any of those questions, then a dog is not a suitable animal companion. The absence of any of the above is likely to contribute towards a frustrated, potentially anxious dog, which is <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/american-xl-bully-ban-exemption-dog-attacks-b2488530.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">often a contributing factor to dog attacks</a> in the UK. Another distressing concern with Breed Specific Legislation, is the <a href="https://www.bluecross.org.uk/our-campaign-to-end-breed-specific-legislation" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">death rate to innocent dogs</a> that have not shown any signs of aggression. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1707943589/Image_1_88_pic_2_5cee80f483.png" alt="Pit Bull Terrier dog on some grass next to its chew toy">stacydubuc/Flickr/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> BSL uses a broad spectrum of measurements to identify whether a dog is within a banned breed ‘type,’ and many <a href="https://www.itv.com/news/2023-11-15/xl-bully-ban-leaves-owners-of-other-dog-types-fearing-for-their-pets-lives" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">dogs that meet these measurements are at risk of being seized and destroyed</a>, regardless of whether they are a banned breed or not.&nbsp; Any bull-breed-type dogs that find themselves in shelters and meet the government guideline measurements cannot legally be rehomed, so <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/dec/31/judicial-review-hearing-granted-xl-bully-ban" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">rescues are forced to euthanise them</a>, although many <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12914671/vets-refusing-destroy-xl-bully-ban.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">veterinary practices are refusing to put healthy dogs to sleep</a>. Animal Rights Activist <a href="http://www.instagram.com/thefitveganpsychic" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Leigh-Catherine Salway</a> is one of many members of the <a href="http://www.instagram.com/save_o_bullys" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Save Our Bullies</a> movement experiencing this first hand: “We’ve been inundated by distraught owners who have had to choose between <a href="https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/rutland/news/xl-bully-eviction-ban/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">keeping their dogs or losing their home</a>, or struggling to pay the exemption fees because of the XL Bully ban. We need to <a href="https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/backyard-breeders-making-10k-per-29604932" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">ban backyard breeders</a> and invest in responsible ownership. BSL does nothing to protect the public and innocent dogs are dying all over the country because of it.” Many UK residents agree, with the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dontbanmelicenceme/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Don’t Ban Me – Licence Me</a> group campaigning to end BSL, calling for better education and licensing of dogs instead of a ban. Their <a href="https://www.licenceme.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">recent petition</a> gained over 600,000 signatures from the general public, and support from animal welfare and dog behavioural experts.&nbsp; Some countries have a ‘deed not breed’ approach preferring to use dog licensing and have reportedly fewer dog attacks than countries with Breed Specific Legislation. UK dog licences were scrapped in 1987, with the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 following shortly after. Yet this approach has seen a <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/297447/dog-bite-victims-occurances-in-england/#:~:text=There%20were%2021%2C918%20dog%20attacks,during%20the%20provided%20time%20period." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">significant rise in dog bites</a> since the legislation was brought in.&nbsp; The Dog Control Coalition, a group of accredited animal organisations including, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_blue_cross/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">The Blue Cross</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/battersea/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Battersea</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/britishvets/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">British Veterinary Association</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dogstrust/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Dogs Trust</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hoperescue/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Hope Rescue</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/teampdsa/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">PDSA</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/official_scottishspca/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Scottish SPCA</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thekennelclubuk/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">The Kennel Club</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/uspcaofficial/?hl=en-gb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">USPCA</a> are united in their request to rethink BSL: “For 32 years, the Dangerous Dogs Act has focused on banning types of dog and yet has coincided with an increase in dog bites and the recent deaths show that this approach isn’t working. The UK Government must tackle the root issue by dealing with the unscrupulous breeders, who are putting profit before welfare, and the irresponsible owners whose dogs are dangerously out of control.” If you have been affected by Breed Specific Legislation, you can seek advice from <a href="https://www.ddawatch.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The DDA Watch</a> or <a href="https://wheldonlaw.co.uk/dog-law-solicitors/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Wheldon Law Dog Specialists</a>. If you’re unsure how to decide if a dog is the right companion animal for you, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/international-animal-rights-day-peter-egan-s-call-for-compassion" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Peter Egan’s Call For Compassion</a>, and we discuss the ethical <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/furry-friends-in-a-vegan-world-ethical-dilemmas-of-pet-ownership" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">dilemmas of pet ownership</a>.

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Breed Specific Legislation: Should certain dog breeds be banned?

A theatre company with purpose, <a href="https://www.patchplays.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Patch Plays</a>, recognised that there are many forms of vegan activism and chose the stage as a platform to make a difference. Their focus is on animal ethics and the environment and they state that “attending a night at the theatre might not seem like you’re saving the world, but Patch Plays hopes to platform important stories that can start a conversation and inspire a little positive change.” Their latest play, Blood On Your Hands, written by Grace Joy Howarth, was recently performed at the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/swkplay/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Southwark Playhouse</a>. V-Land UK had the privilege of also attending a shorter version of the show which they performed last year. At that time, it only featured the two main characters so it was rewarding to see how it has been developed with an extended cast and added depth. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1707942218/Image_1_87_pic_2_a7808d8831.png" alt="Blood On Your Hands play promotional graphic">Patch Plays It is the story of the forgotten victims of the meat industry and examines the human impact on some of those who work in slaughterhouses. Centred around a Ukrainian refugee and ex-veterinarian, Kostyantyn, it brings to life the harsh realities of working in such an environment. It also incorporates an animal rights angle so the audience is shown what it means to advocate for the non-human victims who end up at these abattoirs. The other protagonist is Dan, a young man trapped by poverty and lack of opportunity. Despite this, he is happy-go-lucky in nature. The humorous moments, encountered as they build their friendship, invoke a sense of unease given the context of their work setting. We see Kostyantyn and Dan navigating the day-to-day challenges life has thrown at them. With the support of flashbacks we learn more about their backstories and their extended relationships. Kostyantyn’s wife and children are back home in war-torn Ukraine, keen to join him for a better life. Dan struggles with his ex-girlfriend who has become an animal rights activist after learning about his experiences at the slaughterhouse. Adding further to the unease is a scene representing the kill floor. The horror is presented using plastic sheets, knives, blood, and body parts, to great effect. It is one of several moments in the play that really hits. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1707942459/Image_2_22_pic_3_a34c4766ac.png" alt="Scene from Blood On Your Hands play with a slaughterhouse worker and a women holding a placard"><a href="https://scontent-lhr8-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/250209141_115182194282780_5791298902826643229_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=5614bc&amp;_nc_ohc=3cBR67CTQuUAX9VzyxW&amp;_nc_ht=scontent-lhr8-1.xx&amp;oh=00_AfC7dB1E7CBqaI11_v9sbpcgarAOqzOIBA2YdcgQiJgcFg&amp;oe=64F5A35E" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Patch Plays</a> Overall, it is an emotional, thought-provoking ride. Whether vegan or not, you will leave the show with new perspectives and something with substance to discuss. Definitely one to see if the opportunity presents itself again.&nbsp; Follow Patch Plays on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/patchplaystheatre/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/patchplays2020" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Facebook</a> to ensure you don’t miss out on future productions. Their previous plays include, <a href="https://www.patchplays.com/meat-cute-1/project-one-f5w4d-6ntmm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Meat Cute</a>, about a woman on a mission to veganise her Tinder dates that was performed at the Edinburgh Fringe 2023. Theatre as a form of vegan activism was in full display during this particular play.&nbsp; They are without doubt a theatre company to keep an eye on and we look forward to whatever comes next. For more inspiration on different forms of vegan activism you might be interested in our articles detailing <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/unique-uk-animal-rights-activism-approaches" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">unique activism approaches</a> or a listing of <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-vegan-artists-using-music-as-a-form-of-animal-rights-activism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">artists using music as a form of activism</a>.

Slaughterhouse worker (from Blood On Your Hands play) holding two knives above his head and looking upwards

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Theatre as a form of vegan activism: Blood On Your Hands play review

The UK’s leading vegan campaigning charity Viva! <a href="https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/commuters-shock-stunt-strings-up-9095908" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">made headlines</a> this week with its ‘<a href="https://are-you-an-animal-lover.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Are you an animal lover?</a>’ campaign. The controversial PR stunt was led by <a href="http://www.instagram.com/vivacharity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Viva!</a> Founder, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C3QjJE6KKMU/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Juliet Gellatley</a>, and co-founder of plant-based food company THIS!, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C3QVrGjo0HP/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Andy Shovel</a>, displaying dead animals on the back of a truck at iconic locations throughout London, asking the question: ‘Are you an animal lover?’ A pretend cat and dog hung from butcher's hooks labelled ‘pet’ whilst a real slaughtered pig hung beside them labelled ‘animal.’&nbsp; “This stunt serves as a reminder that the beef burger you order or the bacon sandwich you cook isn’t a faceless ingredient; the only distinction between a deceased pig and a deceased cat or dog is your perception,” Viva! Founder, Juliet Gellatley, said in a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHEjkUSwIi8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">statement</a>. The UK is renowned for being a nation of animal lovers, with Brits sharing their homes with a diverse selection of animals. <a href="https://worldanimalfoundation.org/advocate/pet-ownership-statistics-uk/#:~:text=Ten%20million%20or%2034%25%20of,8.2%20million)%20owning%20a%20cat." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Recent statistics show</a> that over 10 million UK households share their home with dogs, 8.2 million with cats, and another 1.5 million with birds and small mammals, and 49% of the British public consider their animal companion a part of the family. The definition of family can vary, but for the most part, a family member is someone we care for deeply and enjoy spending time with. Yet, whilst an estimated <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/308201/leading-ten-pets-ranked-by-population-size-in-the-united-kingdom/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">35 million animals across the UK</a> considered as loved and cherished family members and homed as pets, in stark contrast, there are over <a href="https://plantbasednews.org/culture/ethics/inside-uk-farming-industry-how-animals-killed-britain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">1.2 billion land animals that we kill and consume as food</a>.&nbsp; Which gives pause to question; do people in the UK truly love animals, or do we only love our pets? <a href="https://twitter.com/Rob_Percival_" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rob Percival</a>, author of <a href="https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-meat-paradox-brilliantly-provocative-original-electrifying-bee-wilson-financial-times-rob-percival/4957577?ean=9780349144573" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Meat Paradox</a> theorises, "In every society, old and new, from the Arctic to the Amazon, East to West, animals are placed in categories. Some are 'food,’ others are 'not food,’ and the latter category often includes 'pets.’ Some scholars think this is a way of channelling our empathy. Killing 'food' animals can be disturbing, so we tactically withdraw moral concern from these species and focus that concern on our chosen category of 'non-food' animals. In our society, to give one example, this leads us to treat pigs and dogs very differently, despite their evident similarities in cognition and sentience." The ethical inconsistencies of routinely slaughtering and eating billions of animals whilst homing and bonding with others is certainly difficult to comprehend logically.&nbsp; After all, what is the difference between a dog and a pig, other than that we choose to love one, and to eat another? Dogs are incredibly loving companions and are welcomed family members amongst humans, and yet we mass breed, confine, and <a href="https://www.hsa.org.uk/faqs/general#n1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">slaughter over 10 million pigs in the UK</a> each year, when multiple studies have shown that pigs are incredibly affectionate, with an intelligence level higher than dogs, equal to that of a five-year-old child. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1707954491/IMG_3786_274140d24f.png" alt="Close-up of a small pig with mud on its face on grass">Brett Sayles/Pexels In the UK, <a href="https://www.hsa.org.uk/faqs/general#n1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">pigs are slaughtered at the age of four to seven months old</a>, either in groups by gas asphyxiation, or hoisted by their hind legs and bled out via the throat. This is deemed humane slaughter in the UK, and yet, if this was the method of killing dogs for human consumption, would we feel the same way?&nbsp; The very idea of eating puppies instead of pigs, is unfathomable to many, with the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-12111167/Charity-urges-westerners-holidaying-China-avoid-Yulin-dog-meat-festival.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Yulin Dog Meat Festival in China widely petitioned and protested against</a>, but is what we do to pigs, cows, chickens, lambs, deer, pigeons, turkeys, ducks, pheasants, fish, and many other UK animals any different? If we love and cherish dogs, cats, and the many other creatures we share our homes with, why can’t that love be extended to all animals? Is the vegan concept of equality for all creatures from land, sea, or sky, so outrageous or extreme as some believe it to be?&nbsp; Sadly, for many people, the carnistic response is that it is.&nbsp; Carnism is the concept that it is natural, normal, necessary, and nice (known as the Four N’s) for humans to use and consume animals for the products we use daily, from flesh and organs for food, to skin and furs for clothing, etc.&nbsp; The term was popularised by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beyondcarnism/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Beyond Carnism</a>’s President <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drmelaniejoy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Melanie Joy</a> in her book <a href="https://carnism.org/book/why-we-love-dogs-eat-pigs-and-wear-cows/#:~:text=About%20the%20Book,never%20dream%20of%20eating%20others." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows</a>. This has led to much-needed discussions on why we harm some animal types whilst protecting others, and how this varies in different cultures.&nbsp; The discussion of carnism vs veganism highlights Western culture's somewhat hypocritical views on how other countries treat animals. Misleading advertising campaigns play a vital role in this; it is widely believed amongst animal lovers that the UK has outstanding animal welfare, when <a href="https://viva.org.uk/campaigns/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">multiple investigations</a> prove this to be untrue. Currently, <a href="https://www.ciwf.org.uk/factory-farming/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">two of every three animals are factory farmed in the UK</a>.&nbsp; The grim reality of life for farmed animals across our country has been documented thoroughly in recent years, with charities such as Viva! creating an award-winning exposé: <a href="https://viva.org.uk/animals/campaigns/hogwood/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">HogWood: A Modern Horror Story</a>; <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/ed-winters-shares-why-he-s-compelled-to-champion-vegan-activism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Ed Winter</a>’s sharing the hidden truth within UK farming in his (free to watch) documentary <a href="https://www.landofhopeandglory.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Land of Hope and Glory</a> and <a href="https://www.therealcolourofmilk.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">MILK</a>; and Joey Carbstrong’s recently released <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pignorant-Joey-Carbstrong/dp/B0CV8HQ3QV" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pignorant</a> (available to watch free on Amazon Prime UK). So where does this leave animals?&nbsp; The back and forth between carnism and veganism is a debate that could continue for aeons. And for animals living within the agricultural world, time is short. Painfully so. It is a little-known fact that <a href="https://viva.org.uk/animals/slaughter-how-animals-are-killed/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">most animals killed for food in the UK are slaughtered within their first year of life</a>. Some, in the first months, weeks, or in many cases, the first days.&nbsp; For further resources on animal-free nutrition see how to get B12 as a vegan, and if you’d like to try great-tasting vegan food, check out our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/category/food-and-drink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">food &amp; drink</a> section, we’re spoilt for choice!

Viva! ‘Are You An Animal Lover?’ campaign in London, England

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Exploring the controversial Viva! campaign: Are you an animal lover?

<a href="https://proverbskin.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Proverb</a>, a multi-award-winning sustainable skincare brand, founded by ex-Harlequins and England 7s rugby player <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-sherriff-0120281a/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Luke Sherriff</a> and spa and skincare industry expert <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/authwall?trk=bf&amp;trkInfo=AQFXembMEherfwAAAY02oZ5QVsKSqCzp4EOkB2gDuMuz5ONvXqFth0jO4mC3W0I_DwobD1UGgxlTSEkrm9q1Y5-OD7nqgZSo_JkyNIpj5AaeM-amJKN4YkDQ6Vi3I8U_JymkoH0=&amp;original_referer=&amp;sessionRedirect=https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstie-sherriff-11659111/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Kirstie Sheriff</a>, is set to transform the wellness industry. The much-anticipated new partnership with <a href="https://www.kerzner.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Kerzner</a>’s newest hotel brand SIRO (which started February 5th), is a momentous achievement for Proverb, who will be at the heart of the prestigious fitness recovery hotel in Dubai.&nbsp; Desmond Cawley, SIRO One Za’abeel Hotel Manager, shared his excitement about the collaboration: “Proverb’s natural and organic products are created specifically for people who prioritise their health, physical performance, and the environment.” “<a href="https://www.sirohotels.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">SIRO</a> Hotels sees great synergy potential in our partnership and shared values as we strive to inspire the fitness and well-being community to unite in a global movement powered by like-minded individuals,” he continues.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proverb are intentional about using clean, natural, active clinically-proven ingredients in their products - harnessing Kirsty’s 20 years in cosmetic formulation. “60% of what you put on your skin can be absorbed,” says Proverb Founder, Luke Sherriff (pictured below), which helps to explain Proverb’s mantra: ‘Get Out What You Put In.’ “At our core is our desire to make you feel more awesome. . . With healthy skin, a healthy body, and a healthy mindset.” <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1707420206/Image_1_15_35f3f45f29.png" alt="Proverb Founder, Luke Sherriff, sitting in SIRO One Za’abeel Hotel "> Proverb is renowned for its commitment to eco-friendly practices and sport performance-led skincare, joining forces with SIRO to create the ultimate reset for health and fitness enthusiasts. Proverb's ethos aligns seamlessly with SIRO's vision to provide a world-leading fitness recovery hotel; SIRO ambassadors include AC Milan and Olympic Swimmer Adam Peaty. SIRO embodies the future of fitness and health. Their state-of-the-art facility integrates cutting-edge fitness amenities, bedrooms engineered for rest, alongside the Recovery Lab offering Proverb Skin Workout and Assisted Stretch treatments - making it a perfect match for Proverb's values. Luke reflects on growing a brand from the ground up: “SIRO is the perfect location for Proverb to showcase the last 6 years of our work. We’re looking forward to amplifying our mission in Dubai and shaping the future of fitness and wellness." This is the first time Proverb will have amenities in the hotel bedrooms and communal spaces - aiding guests' experience and recovery with their signature wild mint and eucalyptus scent. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1707420259/Image_2_4_44c912f4e2.png" alt="Proverb’s bathroom amenities within SIRO One Za’abeel Hotel in Dubai"> Will Greenwood, Rugby World Cup Winner and ex-teammate, expressed his respect: “Having been there at the launch of Proverb, it is great to see how far Luke and Kirstie have come. Excited to see where their latest partnership with SIRO, focused on delivering world-class fitness and recovery, can take them." You don’t need to go to Dubai to experience Proverb. Head to <a href="https://proverbskin.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Proverb’s website</a> to experience hotel-standard products for your home. If you do fancy a trip to Dubai, check out our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-travel-dubai-offers-sun-sea-sand-and-vegan-food-aplenty" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan travel guide to Dubai</a>.

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Proverb partners with SIRO: Redefining recovery and wellness in UAE

When Zurich comes to mind, vegan food isn't typically the first association. How could the epicentre of Switzerland's cheese culture accommodate a vegan lifestyle? Just peruse its marketing, adorned with images of ‘happy cows’ (not to be confused with <a href="https://www.happycow.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Happy Cow</a>) basking in the sun.&nbsp; It surprised us that Zurich is one of Switzerland's most vegan-friendly cities. The vegan movement is not only thriving but flourishing in this Swiss metropolis. From the breathtaking sights to the mouthwatering bites, here's your guide to exploring Zurich the vegan way.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Morning vibes at Roots</h2>At the top of our list is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rootsandfriends/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Roots and Friends</a>, a completely vegan fast-casual spot dishing out nutrient-dense bowls, toasts, and more. It can sometimes be difficult while travelling to meet your suggested intake of fruits and vegetables; however, Roots makes that super easy.&nbsp;With several locations around Zurich, views of the Limmat River, and the possibility of breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it would be mighty hard not to check out this place at least once during your visit. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Explore the Old Town</h2>After a delightful breakfast, lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of Old Town. Cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and quirky boutiques make it a charming maze. Don't forget to check out the local markets for some vegan Swiss chocolate - yes, it exists, and it's heavenly! <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Lunch with a view at Hiltl</h2>According to Guinness World Records, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hiltl/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Haus Hiltl</a> was the first vegetarian restaurant in the world. The restaurant, named after its founder, Ambrosius Hiltl, has been serving plant-based goodness since 1898. With an impressive self-service veggie and vegan buffet that seems to go on for miles, you can choose whichever plant-based dishes you fancy, while enjoying panoramic views of the city from their rooftop terrace. (The price is calculated by the final weight of your plate.) <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705741615/Image_1_86_pic_2_0e47403367.png" alt="Vegan burger from Haus Hiltl in Zurich, Switzerland (300 words)">Haus Hiltl <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Afternoon in Zurich West</h2>Beyond food, Zurich West is a must for its lively street art scene and trendy boutiques. For a bird's eye view, hit up the <a href="https://www.freitag.ch/en/store/freitag-flagship-store-zuerich" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Freitag Tower</a> - the city at sunset is a sight to behold. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Dinner delights at Marktküche</h2>As the sun sets, make your way to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marktkueche/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Marktküche</a>, a gem for vegan gastronomy. The ever-changing menu reflects seasonal delights, ensuring a fresh and delightful experience. Choose from a 4-8 course menu prepared by young chef Tobias Hoesli, who is cooking each dish in a modern and creative way. Pair it with some local Swiss wine for the ultimate experience. It is perhaps the most luxurious vegan restaurant in Zurich. However, it was also named Michelin’s best price-to-quality ratio restaurant in 2021. The lentil and veggie curry we ate was just to die for. Zurich, you had us at the first curry-infused bite. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Nightcap at Frau Gerolds Garten</h2>Wrap up your day at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fraugeroldsgarten/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Frau Gerolds Garten</a>, an urban oasis with a vibrant nightlife. Sip on innovative vegan cocktails and mingle with locals. The atmosphere is electric, making it the perfect spot to swap stories from your day and unwind. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Day 2: Breakfast at Wild Bowls</h2>The brunch game at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildbowls/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Wild Bowls</a> is insanely strong. Choose from No-tella Banana Toast or one of their acai bowls like the Winter Bowl with Pumpkin Chia-pudding or Snickers Protein Bowl.&nbsp; They also have Caramel Apple Pancakes and a Burrito Scramble filled with tofu, kale, spinach, beans, walnut-chorizo, sweet potatoes, and salsa ranchera, which is an absolute game-changer. We also went for the pumpkin spiced latte, because it's never too late in the year to celebrate pumpkin season. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705742491/Image_2_21_pic_3_115aa029cc.png" alt="A variety of vegan food bowls from Wild Bowls, Zurich, Switzerland (275 more words)">Wild Bowls <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Boat tour on Lake Zurich with Veganitas to-go</h2>In the afternoon, treat yourself to a boat tour on Lake Zurich,&nbsp;where the mountains play peek-a-boo, creating a backdrop straight out of a postcard.&nbsp; Do yourself a favour and grab a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veganitaspitas/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veganitas</a> pita to-go for your boat day; choose from marinated tempeh, planted.chicken, and many more delicious options. On top of that, they make bread daily, so you can get that just-out-of-the-oven feel every time. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Art gallery meets vegan café</h2>Now, let's talk about the sweet side of Zurich - and we don't mean just the Swiss chocolate. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lumawestbau/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">LUMA Westbau</a>, an artistic sanctuary doubling as a vegan café, stole a piece of our hearts (and stomachs). Indulge in their heavenly chocolate cake - you won't believe it's dairy-free! <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Nightlife at Helsinki Club</h2>For a taste of Zurich's nightlife, head to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/helsinkiklub/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Helsinki Club</a>. This trendy spot hosts themed parties and events. Indulge in the exquisite flavours of vegan cocktails and dance the night away - it's the perfect end to your second day in Zurich. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Day 3: Swiss nature retreat</h2>Escape the city buzz on your final day. Take a short train ride to <a href="https://switzerland-tour.com/destinations/the-rhine-falls" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rhine Falls</a>, Europe's largest waterfall. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy a picnic with vegan treats while marvelling at the natural beauty.&nbsp;&nbsp; Make sure to stop by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/devideli.goettlichvegan/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Devi Deli Göttlich Vegan</a> before you head off to Rhine Falls. This is the only vegan market in Zurich with an assortment of vegan food, Swiss chocolates, truffles, caramels, and house-made desserts. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705742865/Image_3_2_pic_4_0a972178e2.png" alt="Rhine Falls, Switzerland">Kabelleger/<a href="https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SBB_RABe_514_DTZ_Rheinfall.jpg#mw-jump-to-license" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">David Gublercr</a>/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED</a> <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Final farewell at The Sacred</h2>For a late midday refuel, head to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sacred_and_vegelateria/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Sacred</a>. Their extensive buffet will leave you spoiled for choice, the unique collection of drinks and desserts puts this restaurant on another level.&nbsp; Their Vegelato, made from real organic strawberries or raspberries and sweetened with organic dates and pear syrup, is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. And if you’re a fan of mango or chocolate, you’ll definitely want to try those flavours - they’re some of Zurich's best vegan gelato options!&nbsp; If you are looking for another epic 72-hour adventure, check out why <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/best-way-to-spend-72-hours-as-a-vegan-in-manchester" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Manchester</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/exploring-medellin-s-plant-based-paradise-a-jam-packed-72-hours" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Medellín</a> are at the top of our list!

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Zurich unveiled: An unforgettable 72-hour vegan adventure

In the pursuit of convenience, ultra-processed foods have stealthily become a staple in our diets. These products, often high in calories and low in nutrients, are designed to be shelf-stable and hyper-palatable, making them an attractive option for busy lifestyles. However, their rise comes with significant health, societal, and environmental costs. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Understanding processed vs. ultra-processed</h2>Most foods we consume are processed to some degree, such as canned, cooked, or frozen goods, and not all processed foods are unhealthy. Ultra-processed foods contain industrial formulations made from food substances or synthetic compounds, often devoid of whole-food ingredients.&nbsp; The <a href="https://regulatory.mxns.com/en/ultra-processed-foods-nova-classification" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">NOVA classification</a> system sorts foods into four groups based on processing levels. Ultra-processed foods fall into group 4, characterised by extensive processing and minimal nutritional value. Common examples include sugary cereals, fast food, and packaged snacks, but some products marketed as healthy can be misleading.&nbsp; An apple or carrot doesn’t need a label to tell you it’s healthy, but often, as consumers, we trust marketing that tells us a product is nutritious. However, it’s always worth checking the ingredients. Associate Professor Gyorgy Scrinis of Food Politics and Policy at the University of Melbourne, Australia‬, points out, "If you see a very long ingredients list with lots of chemical-sounding names, that's probably a good indication it almost definitely is an <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2019-06-19/ultraprocessed-food-what-is-it-and-how-do-i-avoid-it/11216306" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">ultra-processed food</a>." Examples of ingredients you may want to limit or avoid include hydrogenated or interesterified oils, hydrolysed proteins, maltodextrin, inverted sugar and high fructose corn syrup, additives such as dyes and other colours, colour stabilisers, flavours, flavour enhancers, non-sugar sweeteners, firming, bulking and anti-bulking, de-foaming, anti-caking and glazing agents, emulsifiers, sequestrants and humectants… the list goes on…&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Veganism and ultra-processed foods</h2>Processed vegan foods, such as plant-based burgers, tofu products, and non-dairy milk alternatives, have played a pivotal role in expanding vegan culinary options and making veganism more accessible to a broader audience; however, vegan growth has resulted in some companies capitalising on producing ultra-processed products. But are they all bad? Although highly-processed vegan alternatives <a href="https://patient.info/news-and-features/how-to-avoid-ultra-processed-foods-when-youre-vegan#:~:text=Often%2C%20vegan%20or%20vegetarian%20meat%20alternatives%20or%20ready,and%20other%20additives%20to%20provide%20flavour%20or%20texture." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">contain less saturated fat</a> than animal-based products, they may contain more sugar, salt and other additives than whole foods. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705661993/Image_1_85_pic_2_1f1a101662.png" alt="Four grilled vegan sausages on a griddle pan.">LikeMeat/Unsplash <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Health implications</h2>The consumption of ultra-processed foods is <a href="https://scientificdiet.org/2023/06/ultra-processed-foods-linked-to-increased-death-risk-in-middle-aged-adults/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">linked to</a> obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. These foods’ high-calorie content and lack of essential nutrients contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues. Added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives may lead to inflammation and insulin resistance. Emerging <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/from-addiction-to-recovery/202312/we-are-what-we-eat-ultra-processed-foods-and-mental-health#:~:text=Ultra-processed%20foods%20are%20a%20dietary%20staple%2C%20but%20research,clients%27%20wellness%20plans%20for%20a%20more%20comprehensive%20approach." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">research</a> suggests ultra-processed foods can lead to cognitive decline, brain fog, anxiety and depression. Additionally, Harvard <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/ultra-processed-foods-appear-to-cause-overeating-and-weight-gain" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">controlled trials</a> found participants eating ultra-processed food ate more calories “compared with when they ate unprocessed foods, and they gained more weight on the ultra-processed diet”. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Societal impact</h2>The prevalence of ultra-processed foods reflects deeper societal challenges. <a href="https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2018/poverty-increases-risk-of-non-communicable-diseases-in-lower-income-countries#:~:text=Poverty%20increases%20the%20risk%20of%20death%20and%20disability,risk%20of%20falling%20into%20poverty%20in%20these%20countries." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Studies show</a> that low-income communities are disproportionately affected, as these foods are often marketed as convenient and affordable options. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Cultural erosion: The loss of culinary heritage</h2>Ultra-processed foods contribute to socioeconomic disparities, and the immense push and reliance contribute to the erosion of cultural traditions. Traditional foodways, passed down through generations and deeply embedded in the cultural identity of communities worldwide, are often rich in whole, unprocessed foods that embody the culinary legacy of a people. The encroachment of ultra-processed foods into these communities disrupts these time-honoured traditions, leading to a loss of cultural diversity and a homogenisation of our food landscape. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Making healthier choices</h2>It’s great there are more vegan choices; however, eating too many ultra-processed foods can harm our health, society, and planet. Here are some ways to make healthier choices:&nbsp;&nbsp; • Cook more meals at home: This is the best way to control the ingredients in your food and avoid ultra-processed options. • Read food labels carefully: Pay attention to the ingredients list and avoid foods that contain a lot of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives.&nbsp; • Choose whole, unprocessed foods: Whenever possible, choose whole, unprocessed foods over processed options. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and legumes. • Limit your intake of sugary drinks: Sugary drinks are a significant source of added sugars in the diet. Replace them with water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee. • Be mindful of marketing: Be aware of how ultra-processed foods are marketed to you and avoid being influenced by misleading claims or attractive packaging. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705662524/Image_2_20_pic_3_5520687040.png" alt="Vegan burger with whole food toppings.">Dervyn Mackey/Unsplash <h2 class="ql-align-justify">What if you are time-poor?&nbsp;</h2>Most people lead busy lives; often, cooking is another chore we don’t have the time or energy for. There are many hacks to increase efficiency, like batch cooking - even easier is putting ingredients into a slow cooker and leaving it to cook while you attend to other things. But sometimes, even that is not convenient.&nbsp; Luckily, companies are making healthy, convenient food, such as <a href="https://planthood.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Planthood</a>, which delivers quick and easy meal kits, or plant-based meals by <a href="https://bolfoods.com/pages/our-story" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Bol</a>, to name a couple.&nbsp; For more on thriving as a vegan, check out our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/essential-nutrient-guide-how-to-thrive-in-veganuary-and-beyond" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">essential nutrient guide</a>, and what are the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/benefits-of-tofu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">benefits of tofu</a>?

Chips covered with tomato ketchup being held up by forks on a yellow background.

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Is it healthy if it says it’s healthy? Decoding ultra-processed foods

BIOVIT is the UK’s leading expert in plant-derived nutrients for food. They have developed the first clinically tested organic, plant-derived multi-nutrient blends to replace synthetic multi-nutrients in food manufacturing, and are conducting groundbreaking research on plant-derived vs synthetic nutrients, which could impact food labelling, dietary advice, and the sustainability of food production. Synthetic nutrients, consumed by over 80% of the population, may not be as effective as natural counterparts. To tackle this, BIOVIT plans to conduct clinical tests and launch the BIOVIT Blend of 12 essential nutrients.. BIOVIT blends are produced entirely of organic plant extracts, are batch-tested and standardised for nutritional content, in collaboration with leading health experts.&nbsp; We spoke with Ky Wright, the CEO and the founder of BIOVIT, about his path to BIOVIT, the lack of accountability in food labelling regulations, and synthetic vs natural vitamins and minerals. V-Land UK (V-L): Hi Ky. We’d love to know more about your journey into veganism.&nbsp; Ky Wright (KW): So, the first proper business I set up was an ice cream business with a friend when we were seventeen, which we ran in the summer holidays. After we finished university, we did it full time, and it became a frozen yoghurt business called ‘Lick,’ we had a shop in Brighton and went into retail. At that time, I was a vegetarian, but I wasn’t vegan. I was brought up on a vegetarian diet, and meat didn’t massively appeal to me. When I was working at the frozen yoghurt business, there was a moment when something clicked, and I stopped eating dairy and sugar; it became uncomfortable marketing unethical, unhealthy foods, and six months after this switch, I decided I had to stop. At the same time, I was interested in meal replacements because they were first emerging. With meal replacements, I loved how logical and rational they were, as if our bodies work like machines. You just have to figure out what the machine needs, what the fuel is, and then put the fuel in. It is quite comforting in the sense that you can break it down. However, the massive flaw with meal replacements, which took me quite a while to fully understand, is that they are made from synthetic vitamins. All the existing meal replacement products are just synthetic vitamins and minerals, with some protein and typically artificial flavouring and sweeteners. But synthetic vitamins and minerals don’t necessarily work as well. Most people don’t know this, including myself, until trying to make an organic meal replacement. Then I learned through organic certification companies that you can’t use synthetic vitamins and minerals. I realised there was such a thing as a synthetic vitamin or mineral. Once you start to unpick them to discover what they are, they're typically made of petrochemicals. They are similar, but not identical, except for vitamin C (ascorbic acid). So molecularly, they are similar but not identical. The synthetic ones are missing all the synergistic enzymes and cofactors, which your body needs for proper metabolism. So, during that phase of running the dairy food business, I got really interested in nutrition and thought about food more deeply in terms of health and its effect on consciousness. At that time, I was super interested in neuroscience and almost started a new degree in it. I was so interested in it and was self-educating myself through reading textbooks and other things. I learned how incredibly similar the conscious experience must be for different animals. You realise that we are not so different from animals. You can only really consume meat and dairy if you think humans and animals are fundamentally different. Or that our experiences aren't comparable, which, you know, it doesn't take much consideration to realise that's ridiculous. There is a lack of unity, which is at the core of the problem with the human condition: a lack of oneness and harmony. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705140992/Image_1_84_pic_2_9355f3dab7.png" alt="Image 1 (84) pic 2.PNG"> V-L: With vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, how is it that they can be considered unsuitable for vegans? KW: Certain ones are derived from animal sources. Vitamin D, for example, tends to be derived from sheep’s wool. Often, with synthetic vitamins and minerals, there’s no way of knowing they’re in a food product. Food labelling regulations say that you’re meant to make it clear, but practically nobody does that, and what you don’t have to show on food labelling is what the source material of the synthetic vitamin and mineral is; in some cases, it might be derived from a cow’s brain.&nbsp; Even with food products claiming there is ‘natural flavouring,’ such as strawberry flavour, it could be made of any substance.&nbsp; V-L: BIOVIT describes synthetic vitamins in our food as ‘the biggest food conspiracy yet,’ as in some cases they are ineffective and could even be harmful to health. How do companies get away with not stating the truth about what is in their products? KW: There's a distinct lack of accountability in the world of nutrition because it's so hard to establish causality. It's difficult to pinpoint and definitively attribute health outcomes, such as cancer, to a specific synthetic nutrient due to the diverse range of foods consumed and the multitude of influencing factors. When you do nutritional studies like we do, you do your best in the study design to quieten down the noise of all the uncontrollable variables, but obviously, you'll never do that perfectly.&nbsp; This issue goes across the whole food industry spectrum, such as the tax laws in zero-ratings: in a nutrition shake, you pay VAT, but not on a milkshake or a snack bar with seeds in.&nbsp; At every level, governments have set rules that make junk food cheaper than healthy food, while investing money to solve the food problem.&nbsp;V-L: Your research and clinical development with BIOVIT will enable organic products to be fortified. Why is this such a big deal, and why couldn’t they be fortified until now? KW: When looking at how food companies fortify food, such as plant-based milk, meal replacements, or Marmite with vitamin B12, they all use synthetic vitamins and minerals, which companies are meant to declare, but they don't, so there's no real way for the consumer to know that synthetic vitamins are in there. Organic certification prevents the use of synthetic vitamins and minerals. So, now you have organic food companies that make organic products that consumers trust. There are no additives, minimum artificial fertilisers, etc. But those food companies can’t make the sorts of foods that you can make if you can fortify them, like meal replacements. So, BIOVIT exists to enable organic food fortification because it’s a useful, smart thing to do. Going back to the original idea of the meal replacement, if you’re on a plant-based diet and you want to get all your iron from food, you might not have the time or opportunity to do that because it’s a large amount. The BIOVIT blend would help solve that problem, as organic food companies can fortify naturally. It also means that companies using synthetics can switch to nutrients that tend to work better. It works to encourage companies currently using synthetics to be clean, and organic food companies to make new product lines that they couldn’t make before. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705141057/Image_2_19_pic_3_da8a669fce.png" alt="Image 2 (19) pic 3.PNG"> V-L: What can you expect the impact of BIOVIT to be on the food industry and food certifications?&nbsp; KW: As a business-to-business company, we operate to convince food manufacturers to switch from synthetic to plant-based nutrients, providing access to their consumers to reach a large scale quickly.&nbsp; This time next year, after we've done the first pilot study, instead of me just saying our nutrients are more bioavailable and more effective, I'll be able to qualify and quantify the effect on a population level.&nbsp; Whether that's getting rid of nutrient deficiencies like tiredness, memory loss, or a range of micronutrient deficiencies, which people quite often mistake these symptoms for ageing, it may be that after a period of switching to natural nutrients, people will feel better. If you’re eating healthier, you can act more intelligently, think more clearly, and raise your consciousness. The symptoms of nutrition deficiencies can prevent you from operating at your optimum. So, the macro effect would be to increase the general health of the species on the planet. V-L: With a topic as big as this and research that is based on the health of the public and everyday foods we eat, how will you publicise this and market your findings? KW: I think it's really hopeful. For example, we recently did a survey with Viper, an independent surveying company. We looked at five of the biggest food products on the market. We asked 500 consumers if they expected the nutrients in those products to be synthetic or natural, and 77%, on average, thought they were natural; also 90% of the people, would rather have natural nutrients. So, it shows people want them; all that is needed is more awareness. Synthetic vitamins have only been around for 87 years. They've only really been around for one generation. There’s growing evidence that some may not be effective or healthy. I would imagine there will be a threshold that will be breached when it breaks into the public consciousness.&nbsp;With marketing, while we’re a small, new company, we can do our marketing through research and create solid, credible data that, hopefully, media companies can find interesting to share. V-L: How does BIOVIT fit into retailers’ markets and what’s already out there? KW: We’re not the first company to make organic or plant-derived nutrients, but we are the first to develop and test them clinically. There are existing suppliers out there. In my previous business, as a customer trying to buy from those suppliers, there were major problems, which I think is why plant-derived nutrients aren't mainstream. There's a lack of precision, scalability, reliability, and a lack of evidence.&nbsp;For corporate customers, which are the ones you really need if you want to break into the mainstream, as the current suppliers of plant-derived nutrients fall at those hurdles, it’s not currently an option for them; we’re fixing these problems with the £500k government funding we’ve received for our research project.&nbsp;V-L: Where can we find out more about BIOVIT and what’s upcoming with your research? KW: Our website is <a href="http://biovit.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">biovit.com</a>, where you can sign up for our newsletter. That’s the best way to get the most up-to-date information about what’s coming out of the research. Next year, we will start a UK government petition around food labelling to clarify whether products have synthetic or natural nutrients in them yet. Thank you to Ky and BIOVIT for all you are doing to showcase the benefits of natural, organic, plant-based nutrients and expose the truth about what’s in our everyday foods. If you are interested in learning about how nutrition in a plant-based diet could aid your well-being, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/exploring-the-power-of-plant-based-with-nutritionist-callum-weir" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">exploring the power of plant-based nutrition with nutritionist Callum Weir</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/can-a-plant-based-diet-help-prevent-and-treat-type-2-diabetes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">can a plant-based diet help prevent and treat type 2 diabetes?</a>

Ky Wright, BIOVIT Founder in a greenhouse

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Not all nutrients are created equal: BIOVIT’s Ky Wright explains

It's time for another city break and this time we're heading north to explore Leeds. Leeds is one of the biggest cities in the UK and popular for its shopping, culture and close proximity to nature reserves and country retreats. Follow this handy travel guide to enjoy the best activities and vegan food that Leeds has to offer. <h2>Best way to spend your day</h2><a href="https://instagram.com/eatyourgreensleeds?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Eat Your Greens</a>, greengrocers by day and restaurant by night, is a ten-minute walk from Leeds train station, their menu which changes regularly always includes vegan options. They’re open for brunch 12-2 pm Wednesday to Friday and 12-3 pm on Saturdays (if you fancy dinner instead they also serve it 5-9 pm Tuesday-Saturday). <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705139917/Image_1_83_pic_2_1841b69986.png" alt="Crown Prince Squash from Eat Your Greens, Leeds.">Eat Your Greens Wherever we roam, if we find a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bundobust/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bundobust</a> we'll be sure to stop; Leeds is also home to an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/indiantiffinroom/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Indian Tiffin Room</a> restaurant, both serve Indian street food, have a large amount of vegan options and are a 5-10 minute walk from the shops. For lunch on the go try <a href="https://www.instagram.com/humpithummus/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Humpit</a>, a hummus and pita bar in <a href="https://www.leedscornexchange.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Corn Exchange</a>. Back in the day The Corn Exchange was the one-stop shop for alternative clothing, music, accessories, posters, tattoos, piercings and more. Nowadays the Victorian building is home to lots of trendier shops, check out a list <a href="https://www.leedscornexchange.co.uk/shops" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a>.&nbsp; Now that you're fuelled up and ready for the day, we'd recommend checking out the shops. <a href="https://trinityleeds.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Trinity Leeds</a> is a shopping centre just a two-minute walk from Leeds train station, boasting hundreds of shops, you’ll find more than 120 national and international brands under one iconic roof. You’ll also find more than 40 coffee shops, bars and restaurants including <a href="https://instagram.com/thealchemistuk?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Alchemist</a>, Wagamama, Nando's, and YO! Sushi which all have vegan options.&nbsp; To shop in beautiful surroundings visit the <a href="https://www.victorialeeds.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Victoria Quarter</a>, built between 1898 and 1904, the arcades are celebrated for their mosaics and marble, as well as Britain's largest stained glass roof covering. Head to <a href="https://www.visitleeds.co.uk/things-to-do/family-friendly-days-out/leeds-kirkgate-market/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Kirkgate Market</a> for everything from fresh food, flowers, jewellery, clothing and fabrics to hair and nail salons and so much more, including <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fat_annies/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Fat Annie's</a>, choose from delicious vegan breakfast, burgers, hotdogs, loaded fries, and shakes. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705140108/Image_2_18_pic_3_024ac61799.png" alt="Vegan burger from Fat Annie’s, Leeds.">Fat Annie’s Take in some culture at one of Leeds' museums. <a href="https://www.visitleeds.co.uk/things-to-do/arts-culture/leeds-city-museum/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Leeds City Museum</a> is a ten-minute walk from the shops and train station and shops, learn more about Leeds and its history in their six galleries, find out what's on here. <a href="https://royalarmouries.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Royal Armouries</a> is a 15-minute walk from the city centre, they have five galleries dedicated to how arms and armour have shaped society, art, and culture throughout history. Their Interpretation Team runs live combat demonstrations to show you how they were used. Back in the city centre <a href="https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-art-gallery/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Leeds Art Gallery</a> hold a significant collection of modern and contemporary British art, find out more about their events and exhibitions here. If you prefer the great outdoors we'd recommend a trip to <a href="https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/kirkstall-abbey/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Kirkstall Abbey</a>. Hop on a bus from Leeds bus station (the 508 bus which takes 35 minutes) to visit the ruined Cistercian monastery, set in a public park. Walk around the grounds of the 12th-century abbey with views of the River Aire and woodland trails to enjoy along your way. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1705140265/Image_3_1_pic_4_4d79463cf5.png" alt="Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds.">Paul Marshall/Unsplash A visit to Leeds wouldn't be complete without visiting <a href="https://www.instagram.com/donersummer/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Doner Summer</a>, who serve some of our favourite vegan junk food, their Buttermylk Fried Chick’n is second to none! <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cantinaleeds/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Cantina Leeds</a> in the city centre is the perfect spot for all-vegan dinner and drinks, serving burger meals, loaded fries, sides, and of course desserts. You can also order some of the best vegan food in Leeds straight to your hotel, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/friendsoffoodco/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Friends Of Food</a> serve delicious burgers, fries, fish n chips and more for you to collect or have delivered via Deliveroo. <h2>Time for some nightlife!&nbsp;</h2>It's 5 o'clock somewhere right? Whether you're planning a night on the tiles or you fancy a quick drink we've got you covered. Leeds' LGBTQIA+ nightlife is thriving; head to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/queenscourtleeds/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Queens Court</a>, the biggest gay club in Leeds, to check out their themed nights and enjoy cocktails with some of the city's best drinks deals. See a show at <a href="https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Leeds Grand Theatre</a> or head to <a href="https://thelightleeds.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Light</a> on The Headrow where you'll find a <a href="https://www.myvue.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vue Cinema</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/junkyardgolfclub/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Junkyard Golf</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/escapehuntuk/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Escape Hunt</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/roxylanesuk/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Roxy Lanes</a> bowling. If you enjoyed our Leeds travel guide, you'll love <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/best-way-to-spend-72-hours-as-a-vegan-in-manchester" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">best way to spend 72 hours as a vegan in Manchester</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/edinburgh-and-glasgow-s-best-vegan-food" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Edinburgh and Glasgow's best vegan food</a>.

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Vegan guide for a top-notch trip to Leeds

Even if you’ve always followed a standard Western diet, you have probably heard of both the vegan and keto diet. Though these two diets are touted as being a healthier way to eat, what are the similarities and differences when you look at keto vs vegan? What can you eat as a vegan? What can you eat on a keto diet? Are they similar? Take a look at how these diets differ and where they overlap. <h2>Differences</h2>Veganism is a lifestyle not a diet. Keto advocates may argue that keto is also a lifestyle rather than a diet. But, there’s a larger all-encompassing belief system behind veganism. To make this article easier to read, the terms vegan diet and keto diet will be used to describe the typical eating patterns of these two lifestyles. It only takes a general overview of both diets to see how they differ. Veganism excludes all animal products and focuses on a fully plant-based diet. This means that vegans don’t eat meat, seafood, dairy, eggs or honey. So what can you eat as a vegan? Vegans can eat anything that hasn’t derived from an animal. Things like fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes. While veganism is about more than what you eat, it’s often the biggest part of making the change to a vegan lifestyle. Many vegans are health-focused but you don’t have to be. A lot of people following a vegan diet are doing it solely for the animals and therefore still enjoy vegan junk food and more processed products. Veganism argues that things like meat and dairy shouldn’t be eaten on moral and ethical grounds and to a lesser extent because they aren’t part of a natural human diet due to physiological differences with natural carnivores and omnivores, from the way human teeth are formed to the human digestive system. Keto, on the other hand, is solely health-focused and what someone on this diet can eat differs from veganism quite a bit.&nbsp; What can you eat on a keto diet? Firstly, the keto diet is based on the idea of severely limiting your carbohydrate intake (often below 50g per day). This is said to put your body into a state of <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24003-ketosis#:~:text=from%20Cleveland%20Clinic-,Ketosis%20is%20a%20metabolic%20state%20that%20occurs%20when%20your%20body,energy%20and%20treating%20chronic%20illness." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">ketosis</a>, where your body uses fat as its main source for energy rather than carbohydrates. A keto diet also excludes processed foods and foods high in sugar or carbohydrates. This naturally means no fast food or things like beer but also often excludes other foods often seen as part of a healthy diet, like bananas and sweet potatoes. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1704456781/Image_1_82_pic_2_e1e8bac51f.png" alt="Coconut halves next to a glass bottle of milk">Tijana Drndarski/Unsplash <h2>Similarities</h2>Despite their differences, the keto and vegan diet overlap quite a bit. They both focus on the elimination of certain products from one’s diet and eating more of what that diet deems should be eaten (although keto is clearer on the ‘should’ than veganism).&nbsp; Many of these restrictions are found in both diets. For example, both diets exclude dairy milk for different reasons and both focus on eating more <a href="https://www.healthyhabithhi.com/blog/wholefood-vs-processed#:~:text=Whole%20foods%20are%20generally%20characterized,%2C%20meat%2C%20fish%20and%20eggs." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">whole foods</a>. Perhaps the biggest similarity though, is the individual’s approach to each diet. Both keto dieters and vegans are often seen as very passionate about the diets they follow and are often thought of as wanting to ‘convert’ others to that way of living. <h2>Which is better?</h2>Everyone has different lifestyle and health circumstances and though both diets argue that they are the way people should be eating, it can vary from person to person. Interestingly a <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/can-a-plant-based-diet-help-prevent-and-treat-type-2-diabetes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">whole food plant-based diet</a> or <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-benefits-of-low-carb-ketogenic-diets#TOC_TITLE_HDR_7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">keto diet</a> can both help regulate blood sugar. They each have their considerations, like the requirement for a B12 supplement in a vegan diet and the well known <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-is-keto-flu-2018101815052" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">keto flu</a> experience by many keto dieters. Where veganism trumps keto though, is with its <a href="https://www.vegansociety.com/go-vegan/why-go-vegan/environment" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">environmental</a> and <a href="https://www.animalaid.org.uk/veganism/why-veganism/going-vegan-animals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">animal welfare</a> benefits. Going vegan is the best diet for reducing carbon emissions and reducing animal suffering whereas keto is similar to any other omnivorous diet. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1704456938/Image_2_17_pic_3_9ac21f7502.png" alt="Variety of types of nuts on a wooden table">Marta Branco/Pexels <h2>Best of both worlds?</h2>For those interested in following a vegan keto diet, there are tons of resources online for following this very specific way of eating, including this <a href="https://www.ruled.me/comprehensive-guide-vegan-ketogenic-diet/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">comprehensive guide to the vegan ketogenic diet</a>. It may be the perfect answer for you if you like the idea of both, or could be a great way for you to try either and see what works for you. A vegan and keto diet have varying similarities and differences but where they both meet is in a focus on the individual living a healthier lifestyle and thinking about what goes in their body more and this can only be a positive. Interested in the health side of veganism? Take a look at our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/category/health-and-wellbeing" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">health &amp; wellbeing</a> section.

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Keto vs vegan: Similarities and differences

UK startup, Greenwood Foods is celebrating the sale of its 1 millionth <a href="https://www.instagram.com/soakdoats?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">SOAK’d OATS</a> Gut Friendly Oat Bars - just four months after the range launched in September 2023. The bars are currently on sale from the company’s website <a href="https://www.soakdoats.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">soakdoats.com</a> and launched earlier this month in all 29 UK Costco stores as well as Costco stores in Sweden and Iceland. “1 million is always an exciting number. But to reach this sales landmark so quickly after the launch is something I’m incredibly proud of the team for achieving,” said Founder Damien Gray. “The sales volume and velocity are exciting, but it’s customers’ incredible response to the two flavours that is driving the performance and interest in our new brand,” Gray continued. “That’s why we’ve chosen to support an extensive sampling campaign with Costco in January so that more people can get to taste our new deliciously chewy Oat Bars”. Gray and his team at Greenwood Foods had oat bar flavours in development for almost 18 months. He explained that the product development process has been meticulous. He pushed the Development Chefs to their limits, ultimately insisting on no less than 49 prototype variants to finally perfect the flavours and textures that are driving the rapid sales. Two flavours of SOAK’d OATS Gut Friendly Oat Bars are currently on sale: Apple &amp; Raisin with Cinnamon (42g) and Peanut Butter &amp; Banana (42g). Both are 100% plant-based, high in fibre, gluten free and approved by the Vegan Society. They contain only natural ingredients and no added preservatives, colours or emulsifiers. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1704474814/IMG_3338_e5ffaaae72.png" alt="Three SOAK’d OATS Gut Friendly Oat Bars being held up by three hands">SOAK’d OATS “We set out to transform snacking,” stated Gray, a former Asda Buyer. “We were frustrated by the lack of nutritious snack options and by the unhealthy ingredients and preservatives in too many of the plant-based options. I wanted to change all that and make healthier snacking available to everyone.”&nbsp; Greenwood Foods has taken an inclusive approach, so while it has proudly gained Vegan Society approval for its bars, it insists they are for everyone; its research with 286 UK consumers via the Attest platform confirmed that 59.4% of UK adults were trying to include more plant-based foods and that delicious flavours was their #1 priority for away-from-home snacking. Lauryn Davey, Welsh Athlete, shared her opinion: “As a trainee doctor and athlete, life demands a blend of nourishment and convenience. SOAK’d OATS Bars are a game-changer for me as they are healthy and tasty”. We love that SOAK’d OATS only use natural ingredients; here’s to many millions more sold!

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SOAK’d OATS launches in Costco and sells landmark 1 millionth bar

After the indulgences and hedonism of festivities, many embark on New Year’s resolutions: gratitude journalling, Dry January, and, once again, dusting off those neglected jogging bottoms and enrolling in gym memberships. One resolution shown to be having a lasting impact is <a href="https://veganuary.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veganuary</a>. Since it launched in 2014, more than 1.3 million people from 192 countries have signed up for the challenge. “Thousands more took part unofficially - via social media, work teams, and friendship groups” - but for surveying and reporting, Veganuary refers to people&nbsp;who signed up to the website and received tailor-made support packages. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">What is Veganuary?</h2>Veganuary is a non-profit organisation founded by Matthew Glover and Jane Land (pictured below), which encourages and supports people worldwide to try veganism in January; aiming to create a vegan world where food production does not harm animals, the environment, or human health.&nbsp; Asking people to try a month of veganism makes the task less daunting; it provides a great opportunity to experience how easy it is to swap animal products for plant-based ones, all within a supportive community. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1704455447/Image_1_81_pic2_f59e617cdb.png" alt="Founders of Veganuary, Michael Glover and Jane Land, crouching outside next to a dog.">Veganuary <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Growing and growing</h2>Each year, there is an increase in people signing up for Veganuary: 2015 saw 12,800 people take part, which leapt to 250,310 in 2019, and astoundingly more than 700,000 officially signed up in <a href="https://veganuary.com/veganuary-2023-breaks-all-records/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">2023</a>.&nbsp; One reason for the growth of Veganuary is the increasing awareness of the benefits of a plant-based diet, both for individuals and the planet.&nbsp; Many people who try Veganuary report feeling healthier, happier, and more energetic. They also discover new and delicious foods, recipes, and products that make vegan eating easy and enjoyable.&nbsp; Another reason for the growth of Veganuary is the influence of celebrities, media, and social movements that promote veganism as a positive and ethical choice.&nbsp; Veganuary has many ambassadors who share their stories and inspire others to join, such as Joaquin Phoenix, Billie Eilish, DeAndre Jordan, Laura Clery, Alicia Silverstone, Evanna Lynch, and many <a href="https://veganuary.com/about/ambassadors/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">more</a>. Veganuary also features in thousands of media stories every year, reaching millions of people with its message. It is part of a larger movement for social justice, animal rights, and environmental protection that attracts people who want to make a difference. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1704455757/Image_2_16_pic_3_71217a9c7a.png" alt="Veganuary Ambassador, Evanna Lynch, wearing a t-shirt with the Veganuary logo on.">Veganuary <h2 class="ql-align-justify">But does Veganuary have lasting results?&nbsp;</h2>A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36073024/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">study</a> in 2022 examined how supermarket intervention during Veganuary affected sales of plant-based and meat products: • Plant-based products were made more visible, accessible, affordable and available, resulting in significantly increased plant-based sales (57%) during the intervention for Veganuary.&nbsp; • Plant-based product sales decreased post-intervention but remained 15% higher than pre-intervention.&nbsp; • Additionally, the study found an increase in plant-based sales was greatest at superstores in ‘below-average affluence areas’. Cambridge University <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/373933010_The_effects_of_Veganuary_on_meal_choices_in_workplace_cafeterias_an_interrupted_time_series_analysis" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">investigated</a> how Veganuary influenced the sales of plant-based meals in workplace cafeterias from 2019 to 2022 and found that Veganuary increased the sales of vegan and vegetarian meals, and “the effects of the 2020 and 2021 campaigns were still present - at approximately one-third of their initial magnitude - one year following the campaigns”. Not only does Veganuary support participants throughout the challenge, but they also invite people to take part in surveys after the event to gain insights.&nbsp; Results from a six-month follow-up <a href="https://veganuary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Veganuary-2023-6-month-survey.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">survey</a> of Veganuary 2023 participants (6,967 responded) show the long-lasting effects of the one-month pledge, including:&nbsp; • 28% are still eating a fully vegan diet.&nbsp;• 36% are eating at least 75% less meat and other animal products than pre-Veganuary.• 16% are eating at least 50% less meat and other animal products than pre-Veganuary.• 96% of those who are not fully vegan said they’re likely to try a vegan diet again. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1704455955/Image_3_pic_4_327487028c.png" alt="Veganuary’s ‘Vote for Veggies’ 2024 Veganuary campaign">Veganuary <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Ripple effect</h2>Veganuary has a ripple effect on the food industry, creating a demand for more vegan options in shops and restaurants. Every year, hundreds of new vegan products and menus are launched for Veganuary and beyond, making it easier for consumers to find and enjoy plant-based foods.&nbsp; Veganuary is growing because it allows people to try something new, improve their health, protect the environment, and save animals. It also has lasting results because it helps people change their habits, influences the food market, and contributes to a global movement for a better world.&nbsp; If you want to take part or want to help support friends and family, colleagues and neighbours, sign up and share the <a href="https://veganuary.com/try-vegan/?d=IG" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">link</a>.&nbsp; Why stop at January? Find out how every month can be <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/sign-up-to-veganuary-every-month-can-be-veganuary-month" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veganuary</a>. Also we sat down with Veganuary co-founder <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/in-conversation-with-matthew-glover-investing-in-a-vegan-future" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Matthew Glover</a> to discuss investing in a vegan future.

Piglet next to text which reads, “Try vegan this month. . .  Veganuary.”