According to the Vegan Society, the number of vegans in Britain has risen by 360% in 10 years. This astonishing rise has sadly been accompanied by many myths surrounding the nutritional benefits of plant based diets.
In order to dispel misleading myths surrounding veganism and discover how to thrive on a plant based diet, we spoke to Ginny Messina MPH, RD, a vegan dietitian of over 30 years’ experience, in order to tackle ten of the most commonly asked questions about veganism.
To say that Dr. Melanie Joy is a key influencer in the animal rights movement would be a massive understatement. Known for coining the term carnism, she is a psychologist, speaker and author of three best-selling books including Strategic Action for Animals (2009), Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows: An Introduction to Carnism (2011), and her most recent, Beyond Beliefs: A Guide to Improving Relationships and Communication for Vegans, Vegetarians, and Meat Eaters (2017).
With the astonishing growth of veganism in the UK being driven by young people, how are Christian students responding to the increased awareness in animal issues and plant based diets? Tim Lornie, recent graduate from Cambridge University recounts his experiences of becoming vegan, student attitudes to animal advocacy and Christian faith.
Venus Williams, David Haye, Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic, and Kendrick Farris. You may recognise the aforementioned as inspiring, world-renowned athletes, but what you may be surprised to discover is that they all follow a plant-based diet!
Matthew H. Bevere, Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at Ashland Seminary in Ohio, explains how God’s covenantal relationship extends to all creation and why compassionate eating should be a prime concern for all Christians.
Bruce Gregory Friedrich, Executive Director of The Good Food Institute and founding partner of New Crop Capital, talks about the role of faith in inspiring his concern for animals, the amazing developments in the ethical food industry and his vision of making sustainable and humane food choices; the default choice.
Author and lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, Dr David Grumett, discusses the distinctively Christian approach to food, the example of Christ in challenging social norms and how Christians might example responsible food production as part of their Gospel witness to wider society.
Dr. Tony Campolo, sociologist, pastor, author, public speaker and former spiritual advisor to U.S. President Bill Clinton, speaks about Christianity and vegetarianism.
Dr. Ruth Valerio, environmentalist and theologian, social activist and author speaks about animal welfare, ethical consumerism and reducing our resource consumption.
Dr. Andy Alexis-Baker, author and lecturer in Theology and Religious Studies at Arrupe College of Loyola University Chicago, speaks about the challenges of being a Christian vegan and how Christ’s message of peace can be expanded to include all creatures.