The inaugural Vegan Animal Rights Conference (VARC) combines workshops and panels led by industry experts with networking opportunities and information on impactful advocacy. Taking place over two days, VARC has over 43 different sessions in total.

Read more: Vegan Women Summit Announces Celebrity Speakers and More for 2024

The event aims to unify and energize the vegan and animal rights movement by connecting activists of all kinds and fostering a sense of “shared purpose” through talks and activities.

The organizers say that VARC “promises to be an inspiring gathering, aiming to ignite new initiatives, strengthen ongoing efforts, and enhance the sense of community among advocates for animal rights and veganism in the UK.”

Speaking to Plant Based News (PBN) VARC Founder and Director Liz Flynn said: “The UK is a hive of animal rights and vegan advocacy, imagine what we could achieve with our own conference here, dedicated to looking at our unique challenges and opportunities.”

There are now approximately 2.5 million vegans in the UK, a 1.1 million person increase compared to 12 months ago. Meat consumption fell to record lows in 2023, and an increasing number of people are moving away from animal diets for their health, the planet, and the animals.

What is the Vegan Animal Rights Conference about?

Along with Flynn, VARC was co-founded by Emily Huang and Esther Salomon, who have collectively spent years within UK animal rights working on training and leadership development, direct action, strategizing, and mobilization in various parts of the movement.

Read more: Vegandale Is Coming To The UK – How To Get Tickets

The trio describes VARC as a strictly grassroots effort, involving many different people working in their free time to design and organize. In a statement on the event’s website, Flynn, Huang, and Salomon write: “Each of us believes that in order to achieve animal liberation, the movement needs many people working on a variety of different strategies.”

These different strategies include – and combine – both corporate campaigning and direct action, challenging laws and disrupting the food industry through alternative proteins. The organizers add that VARC welcomes both established strategies and “novel” ones.

“The strength of our movement lies in our diversity and unity. With VARC 2024, we aim to showcase the incredible range of voices and tactics within our community, demonstrating that there is not just one way to advocate for animal rights, but a multitude that can unite to form a powerful force for change,” explained Flynn.

VARC aims to ‘challenge, inspire, and educate’

The event will begin with a keynote speech titled “Lessons from 30 Years of Vegan Advocacy” by Generation Vegan’s Director of Communications Kate Fowler, while panel discussions range from “How We Can Use Science to Improve Public Support for Animal Freedom” to “Why We Need to Work Effectively With the Farming Community.”

“We’ve curated sessions that challenge, inspire, and educate. From undercover investigations to legal battles for animal rights, each session is a piece of the larger puzzle of advocacy. It’s about showing the multifaceted ways we can fight for change,” said Flynn.

Other speakers and discussion leaders include Plant Based Universities’ Regional Co-ordinator Alistair Stewart; Humane Society UK’s Senior Public Affairs Manager Amro Hussain; Animal Justice Project founder Claire Palmer; Animal Think Tank founder Laila Kassam; Viva!’s Head of Investigations Lex Rigby; and ALF founder Ronnie Lee.

For the full VARC agenda including timing, read on here.

Vegan Animal Rights Conference 2024: dates, location, tickets, and more

The inaugural VARC will take place at the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel from April 13 – 14, 2024.

Ticket prices are tiered depending on income from GBP £89 per person up to £168. (There is also an option to donate an additional £10 plus fees to subsidize someone else’s entry.)

Read more: The UK Is About To Open Its ‘First Ever’ Vegan Theater

“VARC 2024 is more than an event; it’s a beacon for change in the animal rights and vegan community. We’re crafting a space where advocacy meets action, knowledge meets passion, and individuals become a movement,” added Flynn.

Find more information on the VARC website here and purchase tickets here.

The post A Major New Vegan Conference Is Coming To The UK – How To Get Tickets appeared first on Plant Based News.

Spring is officially here, the evenings are getting longer, and the weather is (almost) warming up. All this can only mean one thing: it’s officially time to get excited for festival season.

If you live in the UK, Vegan Camp Out (VCO) should definitely be on your 2024 festival line-up. Taking place on July 26-29, 2024, at Bicester Heritage in Oxfordshire, it’s set to feature huge names from the vegan and plant-based space. These include vegan educator Earthling Ed, naturalist Chris Packham, activist Genesis Butler, comedian Simon Amstell, and Drag Race star Bimini. There will also be musical performances from the likes of Kate Nash, P Money, and Macka B. VCO attendees can enjoy after parties, yoga classes, workshops, and – perhaps most excitingly – try an unbelievable array of vegan food.

The food at VCO is the stuff of legend. Each year, the festival features a diverse range of fully plant-based food from vendors across the country.

“It’s always great to announce our food line-up to the world after months of curating a diverse and delicious array of tasty food options,” Jordan Martin, VCO director, told Plant Based News. “We have over 50 of the UK’s best vegan street food and restaurants coming to VCO this year. Including many of the obvious veterans but also a lot of new names that we will welcome to the festival for the first time.”

This year, there are a whopping 57 food vendors heading to the festival. Details of all the Vegan Camp Out food options can be found below.

Vegan Camp Out 2024 food vendors

Project D: This hugely popular donut brand will once again be bringing its tasty vegan range to the festival

Purezza: If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of trying Purezza, this all-vegan pizza brand is a must-visit

Wholesome Junkies: If you had a big night at one of the after parties and are craving a burger, Wholesome Junkies is the place to go

What the Pitta: An entirely vegan brand famed for its vegan kebabs, these put any meat version you may have eaten in the past to shame

Doner Summer: Another kebab specialist, Doner Summer also offers plant-based burgers

Dappa: We’ve got everything crossed the sun will be shining at the festival, and Dappa’s ice creams will be a perfect treat for hot weather

Livity: This hugely popular eater specializes in Jamaican and St Lucian cuisine, with an emphasis on healthy and whole foods ingredients

Osu Coconuts: As well as its plant-based meals, Osu offers whole coconuts to drink from – an ideal refreshing treat for any festival

Sgaia foods: Sgaia specializes in plant-based meats, including beef roasts and bacon rashers

Chickenish: If the words “vegan fried chicken” aren’t enough to get your rushing to Chickenish, we don’t know what to tell you

No Catch: A hugely popular VCO regular, No Catch will once again be bringing its vegan fish and chips to the festival

En Root: South London-based En Root is known for its all-vegan Indian cuisine

Happy Maki: Another old favorite, Happy Maki’s iconic sushi rolls are back for 2024

The Green Grill: Green Grill is known for its wide array of vegan burgers and hot dogs

More Plantae: This eatery specializes in organic, fresh, and whole foods-based vegan meals

Vegan Antics: This bakery is great to visit after a meal, as it specializes in cupcakes and other sweet treats

Hogless Roast: Exactly what it says on the tin – a vegan hog roast without the cruelty

Vice Burgers: Burger highlights include Peanut Butter BBQ and Cherry Bourbon BBQ

Vegan Filth: This vegan junk food eatery features burgers, fries, kebabs, and more

Shrubchester: Visit this stall for an array of unusual and innovative vegan foods

Vausages: These artisan vegan sausages will blow your mind (make sure to check out the “secret blue sauce”)

VGN Boulevard: This vegan junk food specialist offers Redefine Meat’s realistic vegan steak, among burgers, fries, and more

LICK: Another ice cream joint, make sure to check out LICK’s waffle cones

Sanctuary Coffee: This speciality coffee roaster raises money for animal sanctuaries through their sales, meaning you’ll be doing some good while indulging in your morning caffeine fix

Bamboo: A street food vendor specializing in Greek and Lebanese kebabs

No Fricken Chicken: This eatery specializes in vegan chicken dishes, as well as loaded fries

Vegan n’ Fries: Vegan chicken, kebabs, and other junk food can be found here, with dishes like salt and pepper fries on offer

Sloth and Sparrow: If you’re a hot dog fan, this should be your go-to. It has a wide range of innovative recipes on offer, as well as loaded fries

Wawin: For the Chinese food fans out there, this will be a welcome sight, with vegan takes on classic takeaway dishes

Dhils Grill: These vegan street food specialists will be offering vegan kebabs, burgers, and more

Vital Foodz: Self-described as “CariVEGAN,” these Caribbean dishes include vegan pepper steak, chickpea curry, and more

Yala: Dishes like chick’n shwarma and spicy “beef” kebabs are on offer here

The Vegan Street Diner: This eatery specializes in classic American-style hot dogs, a welcome sight for any junk food fan

Zest Kitchen: A wide array of food – from bao buns to nachos – on offer here

Ninas Taco Truck: This Mexican street food specialist offers tacos, burritos, and more

Plantugese: Plant-based takes on traditional Portuguese dishes can be found at this vendor

Red Tent Ethiopia: Ethiopian street food with a number of whole foods-based dishes

Bam Bam Vegan: A vegan pâtisserie serving a wide range of cakes, pastries, tarts, and more

Love is Churros: Specializing, as you’ve probably guessed, in vegan churros

Yom: These “bowls for your soul” will be sure to warm you up in the chilly evenings

The Fruitory: Featuring fresh smoothies, juices, and more

Mel Tropical Kitchen: Here, you’ll find salads, wraps, and raw food

Say Cheese: An entirely plant-based mac and cheese stall

Soyahoy: Salad bowls, pastries, juices, cookies, and more feature here

Block Foods: Here, you’ll find a variety of different tofu-based dishes

The Good Grub: A variety of vegan takes on classic dishes, including fish and chips and fajitas

Divine Simpatico: Healthy dishes like salads and açai bowls, which will have you feeling refreshed after a long day of walking

Gourmet Poké: These plant-based poké bowls feature vegan meat and seafood alternatives

Vegan To You: This fully plant-based catering company offers a wide range of vegan cuisines

Tibetan Memories: Here, you’ll find Tibetan dishes like potato pea curry, spinach curry, and Momo dumplings

Garden Restaurant: Healthy foods and cold-press juices are complemented by sweet treats here

Mouthfull Kitchen: This Asian-style eatery serves a variety of buns (including mock duck and tofu), as well as sweet treats

Fluffs: These vegan pancakes will be a welcome addition to your mornings

Indo Vegan: This brand offers its own plant-based meats, as well as an array of other foods

Vummies: This is a vegan sweet shop offering a wide array of sugary snacks

Vegan Lane: This online vegan store offers a wide variety of plant-based sweets and other products

Hooked: Head to this vegan seafood brand for plant-based takes on salmon, tuna, and other fish dishes.

Fat Jay’s Waffle Co: Visit Fay Jay’s for some unbelievable vegan waffles

How can I get Vegan Camp Out Tickets?

If you fancy getting your hands on as many of these dishes as possible, you’ll be pleased to know that tickets to VCO 2024 are still available to buy (over 50 percent have sold, so you need to be quick).

For more information, visit the VCO website. You can also get payment plan tickets here. Visit here for more information on glamping, here for pre-pitched tent hire, and here for cabin / hut hire. Find out how to travel to the festival by coach here.

Vegan organization Viva! is once again partnering with Vegan Camp Out, and its director Juliet Gellatley is returning to do a talk at the festival. 

“Viva! is delighted to partner Vegan Camp Out for the seventh year,” Gellatley said in a statement. “And 2024 is extra exciting, as it will be Viva!’s 30th anniversary! We will be going above and beyond in our celebrations, and we can’t wait for you to join us! A milestone in the vegan calendar, Vegan Camp Out is a momentous occasion. With its signature blend of top vegan entertainment and activism – not to mention incredible food, and speeches, we can’t wait to be a part of the revelry!” 

* This is paid-for content. Funds from this article help Plant Based News continue to provide millions of people around the world with free content they know and love. We only work with brands we support and use ourselves.

The post Full List Of Food Vendors Heading To Vegan Camp Out 2024 appeared first on Plant Based News.

The Garlinge Theater, which has a capacity of 300, is located near an organic farm. Anyone visiting or renting the theater will not be allowed to eat or drink animal products on the premises. 

The building was previously a Steiner school, a kind of educational establishment that specializes in “holistic” learning focusing on intellectual, artistic, and practical development. The school closed down last year, but a new similar school will open on one part of the site, reports Kent Online. The theater will be in the school’s arts building, which has been redeveloped. 

The theater is a cooperative between actor Alison Harris, her partner and Swale councillor Terry Thompson, as well as the head of the new school, James Osbiston.

A ‘UK first’ vegan theater

According to the owners, the theater will only serve ethically sourced food and drink. They will also make sure it’s “as local as possible.”

Speaking about the reasoning behind the theater being vegan, councillor Thompson said: “We need to reduce cruelty and industrial agriculture.

“What we should be moving towards is an organic and non-cruel system that would free up land for food production.”

Thompson, who has been vegan for 22 years, said that they would not advertise the vegan aspect of the theater on every production promotion, but that it will be “underlying so people can ask questions.”

The theater will also raise money for animal charities through its productions. It’s set to open its doors next month.

A fundraising event, with live musical performances, is being planned for March 31. Find out more information here.

More like this:

• ‘I Could Never Go Vegan’: How To Watch The Hugely Anticipated Documentary
• Vegandale Is Coming To The UK – How To Get Tickets
• Vegan Chef Wins Fish Challenge On Great British Menu

The post The UK Is About To Open Its ‘First Ever’ Vegan Theater appeared first on Plant Based News.

Vegandale has previously taken place at locations including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Toronto, Miami, and Dallas. It says it has a mission to achieve “world vegan domination,” and the event attracts 100,000 attendees each year.

The inaugural Manchester event will take place on Saturday, July 6 (location TBA). The London event will be held over two days on Clapham Common the following weekend (Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14).

Vegandale UK tickets and line-up

Early bird tickets for both locations are available to buy now. (Visit here for London tickets, and here for Manchester tickets).

We don’t yet have confirmation on the line-up, but the festival is well-known for its live music. Artists including Rick Ross, Coi Leray, and DJ Khaled performed in 2023.

The festival is also famous for its food. Organizers have said that the London and Manchester events will see a diverse array of food and beverage vendors from North America, giving attendees that chance to try products that aren’t available in the UK. Local vendors will also be in attendance at both events.

About Vegandale

Vegandale was founded in 2015 in Toronto, Canada, and it’s thought to be the world’s largest touring vegan experience. The mission of the festival is to showcase a world beyond animal exploitation. Each year, it visits cities around North America, showcasing music, food, art, and more.

It joins a number of other popular vegan festivals taking place in the UK this summer, including Vegan Camp Out, which is thought to be the world’s largest vegan camping festival.

Veganism in the UK has skyrocketed in recent years, with more people than ever following the lifestyle. According to a report published in January, the country’s vegan population increased by 1.1 million in 2023.

More like this:

• Vegan Women Summit Announces Celebrity Speakers and More for 2024
• 2024 Olympics Set To Double Its Plant-Based Food Offering
• British Restaurant Awards Unveils Its Top 10 Vegan-Friendly UK Eateries

The post Vegandale Is Coming To The UK – How To Get Tickets appeared first on Plant Based News.

The two day summit will take place on May 9 and 10, 2024. It will feature a red carpet and award shows, as well as its usual lineup of over 100 speakers, panels, and brands of all kinds, each carefully curated in order to “discuss and inspire” a plant-conscious future.

The VWS – which is open to people of all genders and backgrounds – will feature headlining celebrity speakers such as actors Richa Moorjani (Fargo), Maggie Baird (Life Inside Out), and Elaine Hendrix (Dynasty), as well as reality TV star and vegan restaurant-owner Jayde Nicole, businesswoman Heather Mills, and many more prominent figures. VWS has confirmed that Mills will be sharing her story on how she rescued VBites from administration last month.

In a statement sent to Plant Based News, founder Jennifer Stojkovic – renowned food tech leader, public speaker, and author of The Future of Food is Female – said that the organizers “couldn’t be more excited to bring VWS back to our home roots in Hollywood.”

“As we celebrate the achievements of women, VWS has historically always been a space to cultivate new connections and spark new opportunities,” she added.

What to expect from the Vegan Women Summit

Last year’s sold-out New York City event – welcomed by NYC’s mayor Eric Adams – heralded several notable milestones, including a live global Top Chef Competition and a televised testing debut of cell-based beef. (VWS attendees were some of the first people in the world to try the cultivated Wagyu beef from Ohayo Valley.)

Past VWS speakers include some huge names, such as Alicia Silverstone, Suzy Welch, Tabitha Brown, Emily Deschanel, Pinky Cole, Ebony Twilley Martin, Suzy Amis Cameron, and Miyoko Schinner – co-host and Conference Chair for 2023.

Baird, who has previously spoken at VWS, will be returning this year as the 2024 Chair. She said: “There are very few events like VWS that are truly building sustainable change, and actually do empower women, foster innovation, and drive positive change in our world. […] I’ve been floored by the growing impact the summit has had, and I am excited to be part of VWS.”

In addition to its speakers and hosts, the upcoming VWS event will feature a sponsored marketplace of prominent plant-based brands and organizations, including Impossible Foods, Beyond Meat, Violife, Chella, Pacifica Beauty, Meati, Nature’s Fynd, Mercy for Animals, Lazy Acres, Dr. Bronner’s, Nelly’s Organics, LUSH, TiNDLE, and many more. 

“More than half of our attendees are actually not vegan, which I think is a huge win,” noted Stojkovic in a previous statement on the impact of the annual event. “In fact, our mission at VWS is to showcase not only the lifestyle opportunities, but the incredible business case for the vegan food, fashion, and beauty industries.”

Vegan Women Summit 2024: dates, location, tickets, and more

The Vegan Women Summit will take place in West Hollywood at the Pacific Design Center on May 9 and 10, with an exclusive red carpet event on the evening of the 9th. Tickets and a VWS-specific hotel booking planner are available via the website. Find out more here.

“VWS has cemented itself as the industry’s premier event for the future of sustainable innovation,” says Stojkovic. “And we have even more surprises planned across multiple industries from beauty to food, fashion, and more. Stay tuned – you won’t want to miss it!” 

More like this:

• Company Creates First Ever Vegan-Certified Precision Fermentation Dairy
• Could The ‘Third Wave’ Of Vegan Cheese Move Flexitarians Off Dairy?
• Completed Veganuary? How To Live Vegan All Year

The post Vegan Women Summit Announces Celebrity Speakers and More for 2024 appeared first on Plant Based News.

The organisers of this year’s Games, which take place in the summer, are aiming to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the event by 50 percent – and that includes meals. To help achieve this goal, 33 percent of the food in the Athletes’ Village restaurant will be plant-based, along with 60 percent of the snacking offer for the general public and 50 percent of the fare for the workforce. 

“Since the start of the project, we have wanted the Paris 2024 Games to be an opportunity to discover and promote a more responsible way of eating from an environmental point of view,” the president of Paris 2024, Tony Estanguet, said in a statement. “… From athletes, volunteers and collaborators to spectators and media, everyone will be able to experiment with a more plant-based diet during the Games.”

A step in the right direction

In total, some 13 million meals will be served during the course of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. While we don’t yet know how many of these will be vegan rather than vegetarian, with the menus still being finalized, the news is being viewed as a significant step forward in traditionally meat-mad France.

At the heart of the plant-based food provision will be the Nestlé-owned Garden Gourmet – one of the French leaders in the field – which will offer its products to everyone from athletes and spectators to staff.

As well as its vegetarian fare, the company’s existing range features several fully vegan options, including burgers, falafels, nuggets, fillets, and plant-based “tuna.” So, we wait to see if any of these make it onto the final Olympic menus.

“Garden Gourmet being an official supporter of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games is a significant achievement,” Marco Zanchi, head of Food France – Garden Gourmet, told Plant Based News (PBN). “This partnership is not only a great platform to promote plant-based products but also aims to encourage the adoption of a more plant-based and sustainable diet.”

How veganism is growing in the French capital

While France has not exactly been renowned in the past for its vegan provision, things at least seem to be heading in the right direction – certainly in the French capital at any rate.

According to the vegan and vegetarian discovery platform HappyCow, for instance, its overall number of listings for Paris has grown to 1,000 now – compared with 894 in 2022.  Furthermore, the number of fully vegan restaurants in the city has increased to 92 – against 88 in 2022.

Similarly, the number of vegan businesses (including shops, bakeries, cafés, B&Bs etc) is now at 160 – versus 150 in 2022. “Veganism is widely accepted in Paris, and people can freely express their dietary choice,” Ken Spector of HappyCow told PBN. “A number of regular restaurants offer vegan options, and in addition to all-vegan grocery, clothing/accessories, and cosmetic stores, mainstream supermarkets carry a variety of vegan products. High-end restaurants in the city are increasingly adapting to accommodate vegans too.”

More like this:

• 7 Times Plant-Based Athletes Triumphed In Sports In 2023
• Vegan Wins Gold at Jiu-Jitsu Championships
• ‘Age Is Not A Limit’: Vegan Athlete, 66, Secures 1st Place In 48-Hour Ultramarathon

The post 2024 Olympics Set To Double Its Plant-Based Food Offering appeared first on Plant Based News.

But what about through entertainment, and specifically theater? With around 16 million people attending the theater each year in the UK, could this be an untapped avenue for awakening people’s compassion through watching a theater show? It’s a unique concept and one that we have not really seen much of before. 

Plant Based News spoke with Patch Plays, a vegan theater company that is looking to break the mold and create thought-provoking plays that are vegan in nature but that would appeal to a wider audience. And that’s exactly what they are hoping to achieve with their newest production, Blood on Your Hands, showing at the Southwark Playhouse in Borough, London, from January 17 – February 3, 2024. 

Patch Plays is in its early days having been founded by Anastasia Bunce only four years ago, but it’s already achieved critical acclaim with Meat Cute, which told the story of a woman trying to veganize her Tinder dates. The show ran for a full month at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2023. 

Slaughterhouse work: a hidden issue

Blood on Your Hands tackles a looming issue that is not often at the forefront of vegan discussions – the impact of the animal agriculture industry on the slaughterhouse workers themselves. The majority of these workers are migrants, or people from lower socio-economic backgrounds, who are taking the jobs out of absolute necessity rather than choice. The play touches on themes such as the conditions for workers, the mental health issues that are created by such grueling work, the low pay, and the question around the necessity of this level of demand for animal-derived products. This production has been described as “sinister, moving and electric” by London Theatre Reviews.

We spoke to Anastasia Bunce, the director of the play and founder of Patch Plays, and Grace Joy Howarth, the writer of Blood on Your Hands. Both of them are vegan – Grace since birth and Anastasia for nine years. 

So what is the play actually about? Howarth says, in simple terms: “it’s a play about two slaughterhouse workers. These two men form a friendship in the break room of a slaughterhouse.” You could, she says, see it as a vegan story told through a “human lens”. Howarth and Bunce found that people tend to switch off when the story is “animal-focused.”

“What we see is that these two men are able to help each other survive this horrible workplace by being empathetic people,” says Bunce. Such a thread of empathy runs throughout the show, “as well as how important being compassionate is, which connects all human beings to veganism.”.

The rise of vegan media

With the recent release of the Chicken Run sequel earlier this month, a film that wasn’t necessarily vegan but that played on vegan themes, we asked if Blood on Your Hands was in a similar vein or intentionally vegan. “Yes, from my perspective as a writer, veganism was always the intention I went in with,” Howarth says. “To me, as a vegan, the idea of being a slaughterhouse worker is the least imaginable thing possible. So to find a voice that was so different to mine, but to spread the vegan message through it was something that I thought was an effective way of connecting with those who might ordinarily be put off.”

Both Howarth and Bunce did a lot of research for writing the play and to bring it alive as a theater show, which saw them interviewing slaughterhouse workers in the UK, watching footage of the slaughter process and trying to really come to terms with the conditions these workers are facing. According to Howarth: “Obviously, it’s a brutal line of work and there are lots of injuries on the job as well as lots of mental health issues – depression, anxiety and something called perpetrator induced traumatic stress which can cause a lot of nightmares. This is when someone feels like they’re being the perpetrator, not of a crime, but an action I guess. It can bring up that PTSD-like experience.” She also mentions that it’s the “most vulnerable” sections of society that are targeted to work in these facilities.

Exploitation of slaughterhouse workers

Bunce adds that there is a lot of exploitation due to this, with many being on “zero hour” or temporary contracts and very low pay. They also don’t have much stance or grounding to be able to fight for equal pay, due to their status as migrant workers. 

When asked if they thought people in the audience would be aware of the themes touched on in the play, Bunce says: “I don’t think most people know anything about what goes inside slaughterhouses, other than what happens to animals. But certainly not the extent of that and not the effects on the factory workers.” She continues: “Even when I’ve been talking to my friends about the show, they are shocked. So I think it will be a surprise.” Howarth adds that “if everyone knew so clearly how terrible it was, I think it would have an impact on sales.”

With a production like this, the question is: what message can audience members take away from seeing it? From Bunce’s perspective the key is that people begin to think about how their actions can impact people who are having to work in these factories. “Everyone wants to be a good person,” she says. “Everyone wants to be an empathetic human being. No one wants migrant workers to be exploited. I want people to take a moment to consider what they can do to be a part of that change.”

From Howarth’s perspective, she hopes it will “put a face to that very faceless profession.” She adds: “If you go into a shop, even for vegans, we don’t necessarily think about the worker who’s picking our fruit or the people who are packaging things. I want people to connect it to that and realize that there are people that are being exploited along every part of the food production system.” She says the play “humanizes that role,” and she hopes that audience members will be rooting for the two characters and feel empathy and compassion towards them and their very real and tangible struggles.

‘Creating a bit more compassion in the world’

The play is not consciously marketed as a vegan play in order to try and target a wider audience. People from all walks of life go to the theater to see thought-provoking shows, and Blood on Your Hands should be no different.

Howarth adds one final point: “We’re not expecting people to walk out 100 percent Vegan, but it’s just about spreading awareness, making it more well known to everyone and hopefully creating a bit more compassion in the world. That’s what we’re trying to do with it.”

Blood on Your Hands is opening at the Southwark Playhouse in Borough, London, on the January 17 until February 3. Any vegans who want to get their hands on a discounted ticket can use the code: VEGAN12.

TW: This production contains discussions around addiction, war, animal cruelty, and suicide. It also contains visual depictions of blood.

More like this:

• Netflix Documentary Tracking Identical Twins Inspires People To Ditch Meat
• New Film Explores The Human Impact Of North Carolina Pig Farms
• What Is ‘Christspiracy’? Inside The Film Everyone’s Talking About

The post New Play Explores The Lives Of Slaughterhouse Workers appeared first on Plant Based News.

A performance of Mother Goose at Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham featured a song that contained the lyrics: “G in vegan stands for gassy, while the A stands for either anemic or annoying.” 

Pantomimes are a type of musical comedy show that are traditionally performed in theaters across the UK at Christmas time. They are generally understood to be family shows, meaning the audience would have been full of children. One girl watching the show, who was vegan, later stated that her classmates had sung “the vegan panto song” to her at school. 

According to Gloucestershire Live, her father said that she asked him: “Why did the actors think it’s okay to be horrible to kids like me, who just want to be kind to animals and not eat them?”

Her father added that the humor was “cheap,” and went on to say: “I must admit, it did seem quite unnecessary to have a whole song at the end of the panto dedicated to spiteful jibes towards vegans – as entertaining as it was for a certain section of the audience.”

The pantomime removes the song

Following complaints, the pantomime removed the song. In a statement, a spokesperson said: “Our pantomime Mother Goose, is a live production, which is constantly being refined and improved. The creative team behind this year’s production continuously evaluates all aspects of the performance in order to create the best, most entertaining experience for the audience possible.”

They added that pantomime is a “uniquely collaborative art form” where audience is “very much a part of the show.” They went on to say that they “respect” audience views and comments. 

Plant Based News has contacted the theater for further comment.

Harmful stereotypes

While vegans are used to having jokes directed at them, some have argued that such a song – particularly in an audience of children – reinforces harmful and inaccurate stereotypes directed towards vegans.

“Words matter, and song lyrics that lazily perpetuate tired, untrue stereotypes of vegans need an overhaul – oh, yes, they do!,” PETA’s Vice President of Programmes Elisa Allen told Plant Based News (PBN).

Issy Acosta, campaigner at animal advocacy organization Viva!, agrees. “When it comes to pantomimes, there is always a delicate balance between humour and insult – and this performance of Mother Goose is no different,” she told PBN. “The trope of the annoying, anaemic and gassy vegan is an outdated insult and one that ignores the reasons why more and more people are switching to plant-based each year.”

Anemia is a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry oxygen to body tissue. It can be caused by a number of things, but iron deficiency is perhaps the most well-known of these. Vegans and vegetarians are often believed to suffer from it due to the false belief that iron can only be derived from animal sources. In fact, iron is found in plant foods including beans, lentils, tofu, fortified cereals, and many others. While some meat-free eaters may suffer from iron deficiency due to lack of planning, plenty of meat-eaters do as well.

In the UK, around 1.2 billion land animals are slaughtered for meat each year. Most of these are raised in factory farms, and investigation after investigation proves that farmed animals suffer brutal lives and painful deaths. The vast majority of children – and adults – have no idea what happens to animals in our food system.

“Instead of creating a factually incorrect song attacking vegans, perhaps the producers would like some accurate lyrics,” Acosta said. “Instead of a Gassy G, how about G for Generosity, and the Anaemic and Annoying A, let’s replace that with A for Animal freedom.”

More like this:

• Joaquin Phoenix Wore A Plant-Based Hat For ‘Napoleon’
• ‘This House Would Go Vegan’: Joey Carbstrong And Vegan Team Win Oxford University Debate
• ‘Why We Turned Down Netflix’: ‘Christspiracy’ Directors Reveal Truth About Explosive New Documentary

The post Pantomime Removes Song That Calls Vegans ‘Anemic’ And ‘Annoying’ After Complaints appeared first on Plant Based News.

Early Black Friday, Black Friday, Cyber Monday… it’s exhausting. 

You can almost hear the global sigh of relief when Giving Tuesday comes around and most of the relentless email promotions end. 

Giving Tuesday follows the infamous Cyber Monday, and this year it falls on November 28. Over the last few years, it has grown into a massive movement that encourages people to embrace the spirit of generosity and contribute to various charitable causes. 

And if you have the means, it’s a great opportunity to give. 

But if you spent all your money on a new TV and skis during Black Friday like I did, or if you prefer to give your time and energy instead of money, here are three impactful ways you can support vegan charities or causes this Giving Tuesday without spending a penny. 

1) Volunteer at a Farm Sanctuary 

Farm sanctuaries are safe havens for rescued farmed animals, providing them with the love and care they deserve after experiencing a lifetime of exploitation. 

Sanctuaries need financial support to run, but most also offer volunteer opportunities, which can be as eye-opening as it is helpful. 

Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Find a local farm sanctuary. While not complete, this farm sanctuary directory is a great place to start. 
2. Inquire about how you can help. Every sanctuary will have different needs. And while farm chores may be on that list, other needs may be more suited to your expertise, like event planning, community outreach and advocacy, social media support, etc.
3. Recruit your friends. It’s always more fun to volunteer with others, and you can amplify your impact by recruiting friends or family to come along with you. 

2) Organize a Local Vegan Outreach Event

Getting involved in a local vegan charity or group is not only a great way to grow the movement, it’s also a fun way to meet new people and communities. 

How you do that will depend entirely on where you live and what’s available, but here are a few examples of how you could get involved: 

Flier for an activist organization like PETA

Contact organizations like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) to inquire about distributing informational flyers in your area. These activites organization frequently produces eye-catching and informative materials that can help educate people about animal rights and the benefits of veganism.

Help Organize a Vegfest

If your community hosts a Vegfest or similar event, consider joining the organization team. It’s likely all volunteer-based, so chances are they are looking for additional help. 

Organize a Vegan Drinks Meet-up

In most cities, it’s usually not hard to find a vegan running or social club. One of my favorites in the Washington DC area was Vegan Drinks, which is a social group that meets in cities all over the world. 

If you don’t have a group like this where you live, consider starting one! This type of community-driven group can lead to growth in the movement and support for those new to a plant-based diet. 

Partner with Vegan Charities

Collaborate with vegan charities like Mercy For Animals, The Humane League, or Viva! to amplify your outreach efforts. They can provide resources, materials, and guidance to make your events successful.

Or if you’re in the UK, consider supporting vegan charities such as The Vegan Society, Animal Aid, or Veganuary.

3) Donate a Vegan Meal to Kids in Need with Complement

The vegan nutrition company, Complement, has partnered with Food for Life to provide plant-based meals to kids in need around the world. 

Food for Life partners with local organizations to feed over 1 million people plant-based meals per day. But to keep up that momentum, it needs support. 

To help, Complement has committed to donating a meal for anyone that signs up to join the campaign through its website. 

It’s completely free to join, with zero commitments on your part, but can have a big impact on helping those that need it most. 

Click here to donate a free vegan meal.

Bonus: Donate Leftover Canned Goods or Veggies to Your Local Food Bank

While this one isn’t technically free, chances are you won’t have to spend any additional money. 

As you celebrate various holidays this year, you may have leftover canned goods, veggies, or uncooked beans. 

Consider donating these items to your local food bank, even if that food bank isn’t exclusively vegan, to help make a tangible positive impact on the health and nutrition of your community.

Go Beyond Giving Tuesday 

Even if Giving Tuesday isn’t the right time, keep these opportunities in the back of your mind. 

By volunteering to support animals, outreach, or local food banks, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals, children in need, and your community — all while staying true to your vegan values. 

And be sure to check out Complement’s vegan meal donation campaign. The brand is committed to donating meals for anyone who signs up through this Christmas, making it an easy, free way to make a difference today.

* This content is produced in collaboration with Complement. Our commercial partnerships with organizations like this help us to provide our free services to millions of people each week.

The post 3 Ways to Support Vegan Charities This Giving Tuesday (That Won’t Cost You a Penny) appeared first on Plant Based News.

Founded by Every Animal, a vegan animal rights group in Ukraine, the festival began life after the beginning of full-scale war, and has raised one million UAH (USD $27,350) to date. The organization also looks after the project Vegan Kitchen of Ukraine, an initiative to provide vegan meals to refugees, volunteers, and military personnel, and send vegan rations to the Ukrainian Defense Forces. The next event will be held on December 9 and 10, 2023.

The first Vegan Weekend Festival took place on September 25th, 2022. Tamara Human, a vegan activist, founder of Every Animal, and one of the festival’s main organizers, spoke to Plant Based News (PBN) about the success of Vegan Weekend so far.

“With the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, our team launched the project Vegan Kitchen of Ukraine,” she said. “In August 2022, the desire to organize a charity festival returned to our team. We thought, why not host a festival dedicated to the theme of veganism in the military, inviting our friends who are military vegans, to raise funds for vegan rations and feed people together with our partners with vegan food? That’s how the first Vegan Weekend took place in September last year.”

Human and the team had set the goal of raising 50,000 UAH, but instead, they managed to raise three times more – 148,000 UAH ($4104.96). 

Vegan Weekend’s aims

The philosophy and aims of Vegan Weekend extends beyond the military defense of Ukraine and supporting vegan soldiers in its army. Human also hopes to see the popularization of the vegan lifestyle throughout her country, demystifying it and making it more mainstream.

“At the festival, you can try vegan burgers and other plant-based street food for the first time, purchase vegan jewelry or sweets at the fair, and attend lectures on a plant-based diet and a vegan lifestyle. This event also helps to unite vegans from all over Ukraine and support the vegan community.”

Across the five Vegan Weekend events in Ukraine thus far, the organizers have seen an average of 600 people attending the events per day. Each event has seen around two-three lectures about vegan topics from local experts, including the history of veganism and plant-based cuisine in Ukraine. There is a vegan food court with three-five vendors, and an outdoor vegan market with 10-15 vendors. Entertainment is on hand, with stand-up comedy from the likes of Ukrainian comedians Vasyl Baidak and Anton Tymoshenko, as well as live performances from music artists and DJs.

The upcoming December edition of the festival will see Vegan Weekend taking place across a full weekend for the first time, spanning across the two days of December 9-10. The organizers have this time set the goal of raising 300,000 UAH ($8,300) and hosting 1200 guests. It will feature six talks, 15 vegan food vendors, and more music and comedy performances than before.

Vegan Weekend is seeking support to continue organizing the festival. If you’d like to donate, visit this link. More information is available at the Every Animal website.

More like this:

• British Restaurant Awards Unveils Its Top 10 Vegan-Friendly UK Eateries
• Almost 30% Of Veganuary 2023 Participants Are Still Eating A Plant-Based Diet
• Vegan Brand Wins 4 Times At International Cheese And Dairy Awards

The post Vegan Festival Returns To Kyiv To Raise Money for Ukrainian Soldiers appeared first on Plant Based News.

A couple of years prior, a dog living in Manchester died of a heart attack after trying to bury himself under decking to escape the loud bangs. In 2022, a horse named Murphy became so distressed from fireworks that he couldn’t stand up, and he was later put down. Sheeps* have been described as “frightened out of their minds” when fireworks take place in nearby fields. Birds regularly abandon their nests due to the bangs, leaving their eggs at risk from predators. 

These kinds of stories are mounting up, and we all hear them after every Bonfire Night. The RSPCA receives hundreds of calls relating to fireworks each year. But fireworks are still in shops, and we’re still going to displays. 

“Many people still don’t realize the detrimental impact fireworks can have on all manner of animals,” Elisa Allen, vice president of programmes at PETA tells Plant Based News (PBN). “Countless animals are traumatized by these explosions every year.”

How do fireworks impact animals?

Many animal species have much better hearing than humans. To them, the bangs are considerably louder and more intense. Dogs hear noises around four times sharper than humans. Cats’ hearing can be even more sensitive than dogs’. 

The loud bangs provoke a fear response in many animals. Their instincts tell them there is danger, meaning they naturally want to run to a place of safety. Studies have shown that just one negative experience of fireworks can trigger a noise phobia in companion animals, meaning the impact of Bonfire Night can be with them for life. Fireworks also release gunpowder smells that can be hugely unpleasant and confusing to animals, many of whom possess an extremely strong sense of smell. 

The UK cares deeply for its companion animals, particularly the millions of dogs and cats who live in our homes, and it’s well-documented that these animals suffer greatly from loud fireworks. UK radio station Classic FM even dedicates a whole show to playing calming music on November 5, which attracts thousands of listeners all over the country. 

The scale of suffering that fireworks cause dogs and cats is tremendous. While their trauma must not be minimized, they are often the luckier animals on Bonfire Night. Their guardians may take special precautions to protect them, including drowning out the sounds and blacking out windows. Most other animals have no such protection. 

“Many of us who share our lives and homes with these incredible companion animals know what we can do to ease the autumn/winter firework season,” Issy Acosta, campaigner at vegan charity Viva! tells PBN. “But what of the wild animals, those who don’t live inside our homes and are rarely seen, but find their own environment bombarded with these displays of sound, light, and smell?”

How fireworks impact wildlife

The impact that fireworks have on wildlife is rarely discussed. We can’t see these animals at night when displays take place, and therefore don’t witness their reactions and behaviors for ourselves. It’s easy to forget that millions of animals are completely exposed to the bangs on Bonfire Night, many of which take place in or around their habitats. 

A wide variety of wild animals are thought to suffer on Bonfire Night, and birds are of particular concern. Most can’t see well in the dark, meaning they are at risk of crashing into trees, power lines, and buildings when taking flight out of fear (which they often do by their thousands). On New Year’s Eve 2010, around 5,000 red-winged blackbirds died during a firework display in Arkansas. 

Dr Claudia Wascher is an associate professor of life sciences at Anglia Ruskin University. She conducted one of the first studies into the effect fireworks have on wildlife. She measured the heart rates and body temperature of 20 wild greylag geese near firework displays on New Year’s Eve in Austria. The heart rates of the birds increased by 96 percent, and their body temperatures got hotter, signifying significant distress. 

“I think the research really highlights that we certainly need to consider impacts on wildlife more,” Wascher tells PBN. “More research is certainly needed to evaluate the impact of fireworks on wildlife… I would encourage [people] to carefully consider fireworks, avoiding them in areas with a lot of wildlife and encouraging alternatives like drone displays.”

What about farmed animals?

There is minimal research on the effect fireworks have on wildlife, but there’s even less on the impact they have on the animals who make up the vast majority of non-human mammals and birds in the UK. 

There are around 1.2 billion land animals kept on farms each year in the UK. Farmed animals already experience unimaginable suffering, being subjected to mutilations, cramped conditions, and diseases. Of the 85 percent of land animals who are kept in  factory farms, many of them will be trapped in cages on Bonfire Night, or else crammed in sheds with thousands of other frightened animals.

Farmed animals don’t have Classic FM playing Or a TV to drown out the noise. They don’t have a guardian to hold them and block out the windows, and they don’t have anywhere to escape to. 

“These animals, whether they’re pigs, cows, chickens, turkeys or any other farmed animal, will exhibit similar symptoms of fear as your dog and cat would – freezing, panting and bolting,” says Acosta. “Fireworks are inadvertently adding to the long list of suffering for a factory farmed animal.”

Should we move away from fireworks?

In the UK, there are restrictions on fireworks, but, stresses Acosta, these center around minimizing their impact on humans. These include limiting the times they can be used (no later than midnight on Bonfire Night), as well as not allowing them to be set off on the street or in a public place. “These restrictions are there to ensure the public is comfortable and safe,” she says. “But there is no legislation pertaining to the impact fireworks have on animals. 

Julie Doorne is part of The Firework Campaign UK, which has been campaigning for reform on firework legislation since 2013. She wants to see fireworks be sold only for those holding licenses for well advertised displays. The campaign also calls for the decibel levels to be reduced.

“The public fall into two categories, those who have no idea of the distress caused and those who know but don’t care,” she tells PBN. “We have been raising awareness for over 10 years now and every MP will have received emails detailing the problems of their constituents. They cannot deny they know about the issues, but are unwilling to do anything to help.” 

Some groups are calling for fireworks as we know them to be eliminated all together. “PETA supports a ban on conventional fireworks displays and encourages organisers to explore other options like silent fireworks or laser light shows, which many cities are already using,” Allen says. “They offer all of the flash but none of the fright of conventional fireworks displays.”

Should vegans focus more on fireworks?

Despite their huge costs, the issue of fireworks hasn’t tended to be a significant part of the vegan and animal rights conversations. Veganism is a movement seeking to end animal exploitation, and many vegans want to stop all use of animals by humans with regards to food, fashion, entertainment, experimentation, and more. The number of animals killed by humans each year is in the trillions, with many suffering brutal lives and painful deaths. It’s arguable, therefore, that the issue of fireworks hasn’t been seen as a priority for most vegans, many of whom, according to Acosta, may not be aware of the huge impact they have. 

“Talking more about the impact of fireworks on all animals is most definitely needed,” she says. “The question I come back to time and time again is this – is any human celebration worth the suffering of other living, sentient beings? 

You can sign the petition urging the UK government to review fireworks legislation here.

*While the English language typically refers to multiple sheeps as “sheep,” we have chosen to use “sheeps” to emphasize their individuality

More like this:

• UK Government Urged To Ban Fireworks As Companion Animals ‘Killed By Fright’
• PETA Urges UK City Councils To Switch To Silent Fireworks
• Shelters Packed With Animals Who Fled Fourth Of July Fireworks

The post Is It Time To Move Away From Fireworks? appeared first on Plant Based News.

Moreover, eight in 10 participants who were not previously vegan have maintained a dramatic reduction in their animal product consumption since finishing the 31-day challenge.

Toni Vernelli, Veganuary’s Head of Communications, told Plant Based News: “These results show that Veganuary is helping people make lasting diet changes that are good for the planet and their health.”

Learning about veganism helps people stay vegan

Asked for their number one reason for staying plant-based since January, participants’ most popular answer was “learning more about veganism” (34 percent).

Taking part in Veganuary helps open people’s eyes to the possibilities of veganism. Some 30 percent cited “being vegan was easier than I expected” as the key reason they were continuing on on with it.

Health benefits for those staying vegan

“Improved health” (16 percent) was the third most popular answer. Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of Veganuary participants who have continued to eat a fully plant-based diet for the past 6 months have experienced health improvements.

These include increased energy (58 percent), improved mood (57 percent), better skin (51 percent) and desired change in body weight (43 percent).

One respondent said: “I have become more centered, calm, and happy with my life choices. I have balanced more elements of my life too as a result.”

Going vegan makes people more creative in the kitchen

It is not only health where participants noted an improvement.

Respondents to the survey said that taking part in Veganuary helped them feel more inspired in the kitchen (68 percent) and make more adventurous food choices (60 percent).

One participant said: “I cook more than before and I pay attention to eating more healthily.”

Benefits for the animals

Of course, as well as the human benefits, the real winners from veganism are the animals spared cruelty and suffering on farms and in slaughterhouses.

In the UK, the average person consumes 10,000 animals in their lifetime. Each year 1.2 billion land animals are killed for meat, along with uncountable numbers of fishes*. Going vegan is the best way to save animals.

“Simply no downside to signing up for Veganuary”

Since launching officially in 2014, the annual challenge has gone from strength to strength.

In 2023, some 700,000 people worldwide took the pledge, 80,000 higher than a year earlier – and this surely an underestimate given that many more take part without signing up online.

Toni Vernelli added: “Cutting out meat and dairy is the best way to cut our carbon footprint. As an added bonus, over two-thirds of participants who stick with a plant-based diet feel health benefits as well! There is simply no downside to signing up for Veganuary!”

Never too late to go vegan

Of those who haven’t stayed vegan, more than half said that they are extremely likely to try veganism again in the future. In total, 96 percent indicated they are likely to try again.

“Difficulty when eating out at restaurants” (21 percent) and “Missing non-vegan foods” (20 percent) were the most likely reasons why participants did not stay vegan.

In some cases, the participants were influenced by others when choosing not to stay vegan. “Pressure from friends and family” (12 percent) was one of the most popular reasons some participants stopped being vegan after January.

Making the switch to veganism can cause friction in a non-vegan world. And the good news for those who didn’t stay vegan this year? Registration for Veganuary 2024 is now open.

*While the English language usually refers to multiple fishes as “fish,” we have chosen to use “fishes” to emphasize their individuality

More like this:

• Veganuary Breaks All Records With Biggest Year Yet
• This Easy Tuscan Bean And Spaghetti Recipe Is Perfect For Date Night
• Meat Consumption Hits A Record Low In The UK

The post Almost 30% Of Veganuary 2023 Participants Are Still Eating A Plant-Based Diet appeared first on Plant Based News.

Since its phased launch in June 2023, Earthed has been paving the way to make ecosystem restoration skills, networks, and funding accessible to a broader spectrum of people. The summit marks a celebratory milestone, commemorating the next phase in Earthed’s journey.

The event, of which Plant Based News (PBN) is an impact partner, will bring together 30 experts in regeneration, alongside budding ecosystem restorers, public figures, media partners, and aligned organisations. The diversity of individuals from varying walks of life is aimed at igniting a collaborative spark to foster regenerative growth and community restoration.

“We’re so excited partnering with such an important event,” said PBN cofounder Robbie Lockie. “The climate crisis is worsening every day, and we urgently need to move toward a plant-based food system and rewild the land used by animal agriculture. It’s never been more vital for us to learn how to help the planet, and I’m so excited to hear from this incredible line-up of expert speakers.”

Earthed Summit line-up

The Earthed Summit has put together an array of panels and keynote discussions to delve into pivotal subjects. These encompass rewilding, landscape and seascape restoration, agroecology, urban regeneration, and more.

Speakers include Lyla June (from the Taos Peace and Reconciliation Council), Hugh Fearnly Whittingstall (a writer and broadcaster), John D Liu (a world leading eco system restoration expert and ecologist), and Finn Harries (a designer and filmmaker). See the full line-up here.

About the Barbican

The Barbican is known for its Brutalist architectural persona. Its iconic Conservatory is home to over 1,500 species of temperate flora, offering attendees a chance to immerse in nature. The Earthed Summit endeavors to provide a rich learning environment where attendees can engage with nature maestros from across the globe amidst this backdrop.

Earthed Summit after party

Scheduled at Maroto Club, central London, the afterparty invites summit attendees to socialize together after the day’s events.

What is Earthed?

Rooted in the ethos of community-centric learning, Earthed serves as a conduit for individuals worldwide to acquire practical nature skills from inspiring Nature Teachers. The platform encompasses a myriad of courses on food cultivation, river restoration, rainwater harvesting, biodiversity enhancement, and wildfire mitigation, among others. Earthed accentuates the significance of community engagement for the sustained success of restoration initiatives, thereby encouraging members to actively partake in various community-centric activities and dialogues. While the platform is accessible gratis to those in need, it also provides an avenue for others to contribute through donations, embodying a holistic approach towards fostering a regenerative future.

Get your tickets to the Earthed Summit here.

This article was written with the help of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Learn more about how we use ethical and responsible artificial intelligence at Plant Based News.

More like this:

• 11 Leading Plant-Based Longevity Experts Join Plantapalooza, A Free Online Festival
• British Restaurant Awards Unveils Its Top 10 Vegan-Friendly UK Eateries
• New Book Explores How Fashion Can Prioritize Animals, Humans, And The Planet

The post Earthed Summit, Bridging Communities for Ecological Restoration: Here’s How To Get Tickets appeared first on Plant Based News.

Every Wednesday is special here—it’s Vegan Wednesday. A day when a three-course vegan delight awaits the guests, free of charge. This initiative, powered by Support and Feed‘s global effort led by Maggie Baird, showcases the merits of plant-based diets.

During a guided visit, the camaraderie at Refettorio Felix was palpable. A delectable plant-based menu, starting with an avocado purée appetizer, led to a hearty roasted potato main course, and ended with a refreshing roast grape sorbet. It was a culinary narrative of compassion.

Chef Iulia Nonu, with a diversified culinary background, is the craftsman behind these meals. Her journey from prestigious eateries to Refettorio Felix resonates with a steadfast commitment to community nourishment. She shared the challenges of working with surplus food—its unpredictability in quantity and quality, requiring a blend of flexibility and a solid contingency plan to cater to diverse dietary needs.

A regular guest, Sandra (not her real name), shared how Refettorio Felix has been her beacon of hope, offering not just food, but a sense of belonging. This establishment is more than a soup kitchen; it’s a sanctuary of hospitality and social integration.

Food waste in the UK

The magnitude of food waste is in the UK staggering, with varying figures depicting the extent of the problem. As per recent data, the UK discards around 9.5 million tonnes of food annually, a figure that is juxtaposed with the harsh reality that 8.4 million people in the UK are facing food poverty. Furthermore, it’s disheartening to note that around 6.4 million tonnes of this food is still edible, emphasizing a systemic issue that needs urgent redress.

Various initiatives and policies are being deployed to curtail food waste across the supply chain. From supermarkets pledging to reduce food waste, to innovative apps connecting consumers with eateries to purchase surplus food at discounted prices, the momentum is palpable. Also, educational campaigns are instrumental in reshaping public perception and behavior towards food waste. These concerted efforts have been successful to some extent, with an 18 percent reduction in total household food waste over 11 years, culminating in a saving of approximately £4.8 billion worth of food between 2007 and 2018.

The narrative of Refettorio Felix is a microcosm of a larger paradigm shift needed to grapple with food waste and hunger. It exemplifies a symbiotic relationship where combating food waste dovetails with community nourishment and social upliftment. By supporting establishments like Refettorio Felix or engaging in individual and collective actions to reduce food waste, we inch closer to a more sustainable and compassionate society.

To extend your support to Refettorio Felix or Support and Feed, you can explore their websites here or here, follow them on social media here or here, or volunteer your skills, donate, or help spread the word about their mission.

Refettorio is located at 51 Philbeach Gdns, London SW5 9EB. Its closest tube station is Earl’s Court.

This article was written with the help of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Learn more about how we use ethical and responsible artificial intelligence at Plant Based News.

More like this:

• Paramore To Donate Profits From Tour To Vegan Charity, Support + Feed
• 5 Ways A Plant-Based Diet Can Help Save The Planet
• Taiwan To Promote Plant-Based Foods Following New Climate Bill

The post Vegan Wednesdays: How Refettorio Felix Fights Food Waste And Feeds The Community appeared first on Plant Based News.

Complement and Plant Based News have joined forces to host the year’s biggest (and happiest) online festival for plant-based health and longevity, Plantapalooza.  

Join hundreds of thousands of plant-forward eaters as we learn from medical doctors, registered dietitians, bestselling authors, weight loss experts, recipe creators, and thought leaders at a virtual health festival unlike any other. 

Over the course of eight days, Plantapalooza will feature in-depth discussions on everything from nutrition to fitness and lifestyle for longevity, plus cooking demos, guided meditations, on-demand fitness classes, and more. 

Claim your free VIP ticket before October 24th to instantly unlock bonus guides, cookbooks, and events.

Live Healthier (and Happier), Not Just Longer 

The longstanding discussion around longevity too frequently misses the point… 

The goal isn’t to live longer, it’s to live healthier for longer. 

You want to run around with your grandkids, explore new hobbies, and travel the world with your partner — taking full advantage of life no matter the age. 

Longevity isn’t about extending your lifespan through medications and treatments, it’s about extending your healthspan. 

Nutrition, mindfulness, and fitness don’t just help you feel your best today, they’re essential pieces to the long-term health and happiness puzzle. 

At the Plantapalooza Longevity Festival, an incredible collection of expert headliners come together to share their actionable advice and groundbreaking strategies to help you live your healthiest, most vibrant life. 

Advice that can help you: 

• Gain all-day energy 
• Unlock deeper sleep 
• Find peace of mind about your diet 
• Live happier
• Build muscle, endurance, and mobility 
• Increase your confidence in the kitchen

Plantapalooza won’t just give you the information, it will empower you with tools and knowledge to revolutionize your life for an improved healthspan. 

The Plantapalooza Lineup

Covering topics from plant-based nutrition to disease prevention and fitness, the festival’s lineup features experts from a wide range of expertise and backgrounds. 

Here’s a peak at who will be there, and what they’re sharing at the festival: 

1. Dan Buettner, NYT bestselling author of The Blue Zones and host of Live to 100 on Netflix, on the single most important thing you can do to extend your healthspan. 
2. Kris Carr, NYT bestselling author and wellness leader, on the life-changing power of meditation. 
3. Cyrus Khabatta, PhD, co-founder of Mastering Weightloss, on weight management, metabolic health, and high-fat vs. high-carb diets for long-term health.  
4. Dr. Joel Kahn, MD, bestselling author and leading cardiologist, on fighting and preventing chronic diseases through diet and nutrition. 
5. Rip Esselstyn, NYT bestselling author and founder of PLANTSTRONG, on the seven pillars of eating for longevity and disease prevention. 

1. Carleigh Bodrug, NYT bestselling author and founder of PlantYou, on reducing food waste, nutrient-dense cooking, and sustainable meal planning.
2. Matt Frazier, NYT bestselling author of The Plant-Based Athlete, on fitness for longevity, plus a blueprint for building a sustainable plan for long-term strength and mobility. 
3. Dr. Laurie Marbas, MD, on the unique power of a plant-based diet and the pitfalls of a reductionist approach to nutrition. 
4. Jeffrey & Jill Dalton, hosts of the Whole Food Plant Based Cooking Show, with incredible plant-based recipes and a step-by-step cooking demo. 
5. Ella Magers, author and podcast host, with a practical guide to building life-long strength and fitness.
6. Doug Evans, bestselling author, on “ultra-foods,” micronutrients, and meals that empower your lifestyle. 

Click here to get your FREE VIP ticket to Plantapalooza.

How to Get the Most out of Plantapalooza

Over the course of eight days, you’ll receive exclusive access to new discussions, trainings, and guides through email and your online festival portal. 

And when you claim your ticket today, you’ll also gain immediate VIP access to the Plant-Based Longevity Toolkit, containing: 

• The new Plantapalooza cookbook, with recipes from Carleigh Bodrug of PlantYou, Rip Esselstyn of PlantSTRONG, Dan Buettner of The Blue Zones, Matt Frazier of No Meat Athlete, the Whole Food Plant Based Cooking Show, and several others
• Yoga and fitness videos
• Nutritional guides and recipes
• Guided Meditations
• Free Month Access to The Healing Kitchen
• And more!

While each day’s theme will cover a unique aspect of health and wellness, they’re all unified behind a single goal: 

To help you live a longer, more energized, happier, and fulfilling life. 

As a VIP ticket holder, you’ll be able to stream the interviews and download the resources to use both during the event and after. 

Get your free ticket before October 24th to ensure you gain access to all of the incredible Plantapalooza resources.

* This content is produced in collaboration with Complement. Our commercial partnerships with organizations like this help us to provide our free services to millions of people each week.

The post 11 Leading Plant-Based Longevity Experts Join Plantapalooza, A Free Online Festival appeared first on Plant Based News.

The prestigious awards, which is now in its fifth year, recognizes a variety of dining establishments. The BRA was launched in 2017 by NNMG Ltd, the group who started awards including World Fashion Awards and the National Film Awards UK. It’s set to take place on September 5 in London, with chefs, hospitality professionals, and well-known restaurateurs in attendance.

One of the categories recognizes vegan-friendly restaurants across the country. While they’re not all entirely plant-based, the eateries have all been nominated for their popular vegan menus or food options. The nominations cover a variety of cuisines and locations, and the public is able to vote for their winner here.

“With nominees spanning from London to Newcastle, Bristol to Manchester, and beyond, the event is a true testament to the nation’s gastronomic tapestry,” the BRA said in a statement on its website.

The best vegan-friendly restaurants in the UK

According to the BRA, the 10 eateries nominated for best vegan-friendly restaurant are as follows (NB: not all of these are fully vegan restaurants):

• Down the Hatch, Liverpool (vegetarian and plant-based): This restaurant offers a wide variety of comforting dishes, including burgers, loaded fries, risotto, and katsu curry. It features a range of vegan alternatives like seitan, plant-based chicken, and even vegan calamari
• Root, Bristol (not vegan): While there are non-vegan offerings on Root’s menu, it offers a number of vegetable-based dishes from local suppliers
• Somewhere in Brum, Birmingham (vegetarian and plant-based): This restaurant offers a number of vegan options alongside some vegetarian dishes
• Stem + Glory, Cambridge (plant-based): Stem + Glory offers a range of different cuisines and dishes, all of which are entirely vegan. Examples include Bang Bang Broccoli, Fillet of “Seabass,” and Tempeh Tikka Masala 
• Bubala, London (vegetarian and plant-based): While it does feature some veggie dishes, Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant Bubala does offer an extensive vegan menu
• Twelve Eatery, Bournemouth (plant-based): Twelve is a hugely popular restaurant that was previously voted the fifth best in the world for vegan food. Menu options include dairy-free Breaded Camembert and a ‘Rib-Eye’ Steak
• No.Twelve, Nottingham (plant-based): This vegan restaurant describes itself as “casual fine dining,” and offers a seven-course tasting menu alongside it’s a la carte menu

• Késarum, Southampton (plant-based): This Indian restaurant offers a range of vegan meat alternatives in its dishes. Examples include Paneer Tikka, Masor (Fish)’ Teng, as well as Chicken Tikka Jhaalfrézi
• Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen, Bath (vegetarian and vegan): While this restaurant offers some non-vegan dishes, most of its options are plant-based
• Bōkan, London (not vegan): Bōkan is not plant-based, but it does offer a vegan version for each menu. 

The rise of veganism in the UK

As recently as a decade ago, eating out as a vegan could often be a stressful experience. Veganism was still a relatively niche lifestyle, with a limited number of options available at most eateries. Restaurants tended to be heavy on animal products, and there was no guarantee you’d be catered for. 

Over the last few years, however, the number of vegans in the country has skyrocketed. There were around 150,000 in the UK in 2014, and this figure quadrupled to 600,000 in 2019. To cater to this ever growing plant-based population, many mainstream eateries have been adapting their menus to make them more vegan-friendly. 

A wide variety of traditionally meat-heavy chains have been adding an increasing number of vegan options. These include Nando’s, Pizza Express, and even Burger King and McDonald’s. 

In 2021, fast food chain Burger King UK announced that it was planning to make 50 percent of its menu meat-free by 2030. Such a move would have seemed unthinkable a few years ago, but it reflected the sharp rise in popularity of meat-free meals in the country.

More like this:

• Vegan Brand Wins 4 Times At International Cheese And Dairy Awards
• These Might Just Be The 10 Best Restaurants In Central London (And They’re All Vegan-Friendly)
• A New Vegan Bakery And Fine-Dining Restaurant To Open In London

The post British Restaurant Awards Unveils Its Top 10 Vegan-Friendly UK Eateries appeared first on Plant Based News.