TOP NEWS THIS WEEK
Does It Matter If Pythons are the Most Sustainable Meat?: A new study suggests that pythons may be the most sustainable animal to use for food in terms of feed conversion efficiency. Snakes appear to be a more “efficient” source of protein compared to salmon, crickets, chickens, pigs and cow flesh. Like shrimps and crickets, snakes are now part of the musical chairs of which animals are “best” for food because using them requires fewer resources. Yet nowhere is the wellbeing of the individuals who are eaten considered. Read more on New Scientist.
Vegan Festivals and Events Flourish Globally in 2024: As the vegan movement continues to gain momentum, a diverse array of festivals and events celebrating plant-based living are blossoming worldwide in 2024. From the UK’s Vegan Camp Out to the Vegan Summer Festival in Berlin, these gatherings offer a platform for community building, education, and showcasing the abundance of vegan products and cuisine. See the event schedule on veggiesabroad.com.
Study Examines Acceptance of Alternative Proteins in Asia: A recent study explored the acceptance of various alternative protein sources, including plant-based meat alternatives, cultured meat, and insect-based products, among the multiethnic Asian population in Singapore. The findings revealed that plant-based meat alternatives were preferred over cultured meat and insect-based products. The perception of “unnaturalness” emerged as a significant barrier to consumption, particularly for cultured meat and insect-based foods. The results of this study are promising as vegan foods become more and more normalized around the world. Read the full study.
SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT
Human-Animal Conflict Takes Center Stage in Indian Elections
As India gears up for its upcoming general elections, the issue of human-animal conflict has become a major talking point, particularly in the states of Kerala and Wayanad. With a surge in incidents involving wild animal attacks on humans and other animals, political parties are proposing amendments to the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 to address the situation. “Culling the vermin” or “killing to conserve” are being promoted as ways to the address the issue. Nowhere is there discussion of contraception or other measures that consider the wellbeing of the “vermin.” See the story on oneindia.com.
QUICK BITES
Green Pasta: This vibrant and creamy vegan pasta dish features a luscious spinach sauce made with nutritional yeast, cashews, and lemon juice. Serve it over your favorite pasta or roasted vegetables for a nourishing and comforting meal. Find the recipe on Nora Cooks.
Vegan Apple Raisin Fruit Crisp: Embrace the flavors of fall with this easy, four-step dessert. Featuring a crisp oat and spice topping over a warm apple and raisin filling, this treat is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Recipe on VegNews.
DID YOU KNOW?
Ethical Alternatives to Animal Testing Gain Momentum
The pursuit of ethical alternatives to animal testing has gained traction in recent years. Innovative technologies such as organ-on-a-chip, computer modeling, and 3D bioprinting offer promising alternatives to animal experimentation. Not only do these methods not harm animals, they also provide more accurate means for scientific research and drug testing.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Should We Adopt the Term “Sentientism”?
What’s your view on using different terminology like “plant-based” or “sentientism” instead of vegan/veganism? Some argue the “vegan” label has too many negative connotations or is associated only with a diet or environmentalism. “Sentientism” captures the spirit of respect for all sentient beings, but is not a familiar term to most people and might not be easily adopted. Others feel we should reclaim and redefine the vegan terms through ethical vegan advocacy. What’s your opinion? Let us know in the comments!
Stay informed and keep advocating for a more vegan world. See you next week with more updates!
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