News
IN THE NEWS
Brits cut down on meat consumption A survey conducted by The Vegan Society has found that one in five Brits have cut down on meat consumption during the Covid-19 pandemic. The survey also found 15% have reduced their intake of dairy and eggs over the lockdown period. Interestingly, many of those surveyed are fans of the alternatives they have tried and are committed to continue buying in the future. Media and PR Officer Matt Turner represented The Vegan Society in over 20 interviews with national and local radio broadcasters on the topic, highlighting how encouraging it is that these brilliant vegan alternatives are considered the new normal. The survey was mentioned in a host of national newspapers including The i, The Independent, The Times and The Telegraph.
more expensive. In response to this, The Vegan Society has conducted a cost comparison of protein-rich foods. The research dispels the idea that veganism is an unaffordable lifestyle and illustrates how vegan staples are often the most affordable options for consumers. Research and Policy Officer Sabrina Ahmed told the press that, at a time when so many shoppers are concerned about the price of food, it’s vital that we show how cost-effective a healthy, nutritious vegan diet can really be.
Concern in the meat and dairy industries The meat and dairy industries recoiled at the news that many are cutting back on eating animal products. This concern culminated in an opinion piece for Farmers Weekly entitled ‘8 Reasons Why Becoming Vegan Is the Wrong Choice’. The Vegan Society was on hand to respond quickly and effectively by offering a reminder that we should stick to the facts instead of sloganeering. Responding to the piece, Matt Turner acknowledged that articles like this are often the result of industry concern. Emphasising that The Vegan Society doesn’t want conflict with farmers, he reminded the agricultural industry that The Vegan Society is always keen to collaborate and advocate for policies that help farmers transition to a more sustainable system.
Busting affordability myths Many people see cost as a barrier to veganism, with there being a misconception that plant-based food is always
6 | The Vegan Issue 3 2020
Vegan leather all the rage Following The Vegan Society’s comments urging consumers to pick the ethical, sustainable choice when they are on the high street, fashion columns in local newspapers have been showcasing vegan alternatives to leather. Generating coverage in over 50 local newspapers, we reminded readers that leather is only ever ‘natural’ on the animals who were born with it. Added to this are the enormous environmental costs of producing leather. The creativity and innovation of the textile industry means that we will be seeing more vegan leather products in 2020 than ever before.
