You’ve heard of people going vegan, but have you ever heard of Veganuary, which takes place every January? If you like challenging yourself and the way you eat, then try it out. This annual, month-long event encourages people to try veganism out or simply attempt a healthier diet and life. Living a healthy, conscious lifestyle that does not harm animals or damage the world’s resources is very easy; you just have to unlearn all of your old bad habits and embrace a plant-based diet.
History of Veganuary
Throughout the last couple of years, veganism has grown from a dietary fad to a fully-fledged way of life for millions of people worldwide. It started as a way to eat and stay sustained without having to harm or endanger animals, and today is one of the healthiest and most popular ways to cook and eat.
In the 1960s and 1970s, a vegetarian food movement emerged in the U.S. as part of the counterculture, focusing on concerns about diet, the environment, and distrust of food producers, leading to an increase in interest in organic gardening. From there, people started cutting out any product provided by an animal, as that animal was most likely from a farm or enclosure. While vegans generally abstain from animal products, some animal products are used in numerous ways. Different individuals and organizations who identify with the vegan practice may use some limited animal products based on philosophy, means, or other concerns. According to philosopher Gary Steiner, it is impossible to be completely vegan because animal use and products are “deeply and imperceptibly woven into the fabric of human society.”
The first Veganuary, a combination of the words ‘vegan’ and ‘January,’ event was held in January 2014 and was founded by Jane Land and Matthew Glover. In 2015 the project received 12,800 sign-ups, and by 2021 it boasted 513.663 sign-ups. This is just another testament to the fact that veganism has grown in popularity worldwide. People use Veganuary to try veganism out each year before fully committing to this plant-based way of life.
Veganuary timeline
Several vegan communities are established in the U.S., predominantly in Massachusetts.
Members of the Alcott House establish the British and Foreign Society for the Promotion of Humanity and the Abstinence from Animal Food.
Members of the Vegetarian Society request that a section of its newsletter be devoted to non-dairy vegetarianism, later known as veganism.
Fay K. Henderson writes and publishes the world’s first vegan recipe book.
Jane Land and Matthew Glover establish Veganuary and hosts the first-ever event driven by sign-ups from the public.
British weekly newspaper “The Economist” declares 2019 the year of the vegan.
Veganuary FAQs
What is the healthiest diet in the world?
The Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and olive oil, could be considered the world’s healthiest diet.
How do I prepare for Veganuary?
Eliminate all animal-derived ingredients and replace them with whole grains, beans, legumes, tofu, nuts, and seeds. Replace all of your favorite non-vegan items with vegan substitutes.
Do vegans look younger?
In general, vegans do not look any younger than people who choose to eat meat and dairy products, though many do live longer, healthier lives.
Veganuary Activities
Cook a vegan meal
You can find hundreds and thousands of vegan-themed recipes online and in cookbooks. So track down some delicious recipes, have some friends over, and cook vegan food for everyone.
Learn about the fundamentals of veganism
Vegetarianism and veganism were born out of the frustration around large-scale factory farms and the inhumane way these farmers would treat their animals. Read up and learn more about these farms.
Go vegan
Take the leap; you can say you’ve tried it if it doesn't work out. And what better way to try it than by taking part in Veganuary?
5 Iconic Vegans
Joaquin Phoenix
In 2020 the actor made news when he chose to speak about his veganism in his acceptance speech following his Oscar win for the film “Joker.”
Erykah Badu
The soulful hitmaker stopped eating meat in the 80s and went completely vegan by 1997.
Morrissey
The lead singer of the alternative rock band, ‘The Smiths,’ is a vocal vegan who never misses an opportunity to speak up for animals and their rights.
Alicia Silverstone
The “Clueless” star credits her becoming vegan to her devotion to animal welfare.
Tobey Maguire
Also known as Spiderman to some, Tobey Maguire went vegan in 2009 and has publicly said that he struggled to eat meat when he was a kid.
Why We Love Veganuary
It encourages a healthy lifestyle
Through the years, vegetarianism has been the model of a healthy lifestyle. Today, vegans are some of the healthiest people in society and boast fit and strong bodies.
It promotes animal rights and humane treatment
For years, people have ignored their harsh treatment of animals. Veganism and events like Veganuary put an end to all of it.
A whole new world of tastes and recipes
Even more, enjoyable is replacing meat or dairy products in classic dishes with vegan-friendly alternatives such as vegan cheese, almonds, plant-based oils, and milk substitutes. Finally, we can have some fun with our meals again.
Veganuary dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | January 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | January 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | January 1 | Saturday |
| 2029 | January 1 | Monday |
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