So you want to go vegan, but you don’t know where to start. You have a thousand questions (and doubts) and you are not sure if this is the right lifestyle for you, or if you can sustain it in a feasible way. It would be easy to think with the plethora of plant-based products now on the market that veganism has completely plunged into the mainstream, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some uncomfortable hurdles to overcome just yet.
Why go vegan?
Whether animal welfare or environmental concerns are driving your lifestyle change, veganism has never been more popular. While it’s never been claimed to be a panacea, simply cutting your meat and dairy intake can have a significant positive impact on your carbon footprint, as well as reducing the devastation already caused by intensive farming. According to a 2018 study, meat and dairy consumption is responsible for 60 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. We would also need 75 percent less agricultural land globally if all of it were completely plant-based.
If an overnight diet change feels overwhelming, you can try eliminating certain foods gradually. Start by giving up something you least feel like giving up, while still allowing yourself to eat from the occasional cheese board, which most new vegans find it harder to give up. Fortunately, however, we are seeing an ever-growing range of authentic dairy-free cheeses appear in almost every grocery store, from Marks & Spencer’s Plant Kitchen feta alternative to Violife’s epic ripe Cheddar and even the newly launched dairy-free Boursin. Today, there is something to curb all possible cravings, making the move to veganism almost perfect.
Remember that food is emotional, so don’t worry if you slip up in those first few weeks and months. This is a journey, not a sprint towards plant-based perfection.
Where do I start?
The change starts in your kitchen. Start by cleaning out your pantry and refrigerator (donate, don’t throw!) And fill them with familiar plant-based alternatives like organic oat milk and Naturli ‘butter. In those early stages, you’ll want to work your way through the lifestyle with meals and snacks that aren’t too far out of your comfort zone.
Rest assured, you can still enjoy all your favorites, including pasta, bread, chocolate (Rhythm 108 is a must), and wine, though be sure to check the label. Surprisingly, due to the filtering process, not all wines are vegan; however, almost all brands should now have it clearly marked on the back.
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