Only a few years ago it seemed almost impossible to go anywhere and find a nice vegetarian, let alone vegan meal. Growing up it was a constant battle to find somewhere that had even one vegetarian option, but now there is an array of vegan friendly restaurants and eateries.
There has been a surge in interest in reducetarianism over the past few years not only for the traditional ethical reasons but also for more healthy eating reasons. A shift in social attitudes around veganism has potentially led to more people trying the lifestyle change. Many people now make small changes such as switching to almond milk instead of dairy for health benefits. The demand arguably is not from dedicated vegans, but more from vast amounts of individuals wanting to cut back on animal products. Either way, this is a positive advance for veganism. Companies have seen the demand for vegan food is there and they are certainly delivering.
There is no doubt that reducing animal product intake is the ‘new trend’, so it was only natural for business to seize the opportunity and profit off this. Even traditional restaurants like Wetherspoon’s now offer a completely separate vegan, vegetarian and gluten free menu. This was unheard of just a few years ago but now most chain restaurants offer great vegetarian alternatives and at least one of two vegan options. I personally have used social media several times to ask for more vegan options or alternatives from chain restaurants. Twitter has been a great way for vegans to show their want for alternatives with companies often being very receptive of these demands.
The following Telegraph article… http://www.telegraph.co.uk/food-and-drink/news/number-of-vegans-in-britain-rises-by-360-in-10-years/ states that research has shown the number of vegans has risen by 360% in 10 years (May 2016) one of the “fastest growing lifestyle movements”. Restaurants have naturally need this demand and offer an amazing range of alternatives now. Pizza express, Zizzis, Wetherspoon’s, YO Sushi, Giraffe, Nando’s and Toby Carvery are just a few of the chain restaurants that now offer vegan options. The incredibly popular Pret a Manger now even has stand alone vegan only pop up stores, with calls for its permanent residence. But why is there this demand for healthier food options?
As previously stated, reducing meat intake is no longer just for strict vegans. The past few years have shown a surge in the healthy eating phenomenon. It seems everyone and their dog is now dedicated to cutting down the carbs and calories and boosting the greens. There is no doubt in my mind this surge is down to the ‘health blogger’. Modern day influencers are arguably no longer celebrities but bloggers and Youtubers who have a huge reach of young and impressionable audiences. Most of these modern day influencers have perfect instagram’s that document their extremely healthy and balanced lifestyles. Salad, fitbits, gym and fruit crammed smoothies. The new digital age and emergence of online idols has completely changed the way young people see food and in particular meat. Of course, this can be argued as both a good and bad thing.. it is important to remember what these people present to us is not always the truth, but seeing more veg and less meat is not a bad thing in my eyes.
Many Youtubers now claim to be vegetarian or vegan as well as using cruelty free products. This has no doubt had an impact on younger generations and their food choices which in turn is creating a demand for more meat free options. The increased demand has led to a wider and more delicious range of food options for those wanting to cut back on their animal consumption. Gone are the days of a simple salad or bowl of rice. Thank God.
Vegan burgers are the way forward!
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