Meat lovers embrace Veganuary
More than 580 000 people signed up to try out a plant-based diet
THOUSANDS of meat lovers have traded their usual diets for a vegan one.
More than 580 000 people signed up to try out a plant-based diet in January – as part of a global campaign known as Veganuary.
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The campaign has also received the backing of South African retailers, restaurants and food manufacturers.
Head of product merchandise at Pick n Pay, Nicki Russell says more and more customers seem to be experimenting with plant-based alternatives.
‘Last year we piloted dedicated plant-based destinations in selected stores – across fresh, frozen and pantry items – and it proved very popular.
‘This year, we will expand our plant-based range of PnP own brand, as well as work with other brands to bring customers more exciting products.’
Food Lovers Market ran multiple Veganuary specials – including discounts on Almond Breeze, one of the best milk alternatives on the market in South Africa.
John Dory’s introduced vegan sushi during the campaign, using plant-based prawn-style pieces.
Benefits of a plant-based diet
ProVeg South Africa, the official local non-government organisation partner for Veganuary, says there are five benefits of adopting a more plant-based diet.
These are health, environment, food justice, animals, and taste.
‘A plant-based diet saves many animals from a life of suffering, reduces one’s personal ecological footprint, and can contribute to a fairer world. At the same time, plant-based eating is delicious and can provide a healthier and more varied diet.
‘Our research shows that the health benefits of a plant-based diet, and then the environmental benefits, are the main reasons that South Africans are becoming interested in moving towards it,’ said ProVeg director, Donovan Will.
Will said the increase in the availability of alternatives that mimic the taste and texture of meat is also playing a huge role in getting people to move towards a plant-based lifestyle.
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