A Vegan is defined as a person who does not consume or support any products or activities that exploits animals. This includes refraining from consuming meat, dairy, and eggs, not attending the zoo or circus and refraining from purchasing any products like shampoo or furniture.

People often confuse Veganism with being a Vegetarian. While a vegatarian refrains from eating meat, they may still eat dairy. Confusion also arises when talking about a eating plant based lifestyle which  follows the same rules as Veganism however they may still attend non Vegan activities (the zoo or circus) and buy leather couches or non vegan beauty supplies.

So why is Veganism becoming globally popular? People of all ages are beginning to acknowledge the detrimental problem of speciesism. Speciesism is the idea that humans are above all other species in the animal kingdom. This makes the deaths of those animals and modern food industry justified. While Vegan’s might say the fact that over 56 million animals are unnecessarily and prematurely killed worldwide (not including sea animals) is unnecessary, meat lovers could argue that the consumption of meat is important to cultural identity and is a natural born right. This is striking a chord with more and more frequently especially in Europe but is still apparent in the States. This year the Vegan population rose to about .5% of Americans or about 1 million people.

By now I bet most have you have said something along the lines of ¨Wow I could never go vegan, that’s way too hard¨ followed by naming some beloved food such as pancakes. That however just isn’t the case, their are hundreds of ways to, as I like to say “Veganify” your favorite meals; I do it everyday.

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(Hazel Stange / LHS Lion Tales)

Making things like vegan pancakes or simply a smoothie bowl with nuts and fruit on top are great and super easy vegan meals (not to mention totally delicious) to help with your transition to a healthier life. If you’re craving something sweet you can always make some vegan cupcakes (I always add flowers on top of mine, yum!).

If you want to make a difference in the world, Veganism is the first step to a more conscience and ethical life not only for you but the environment and animals.