Every year, nonprofit organization Veganuary encourages people to choose plant-based food for January and beyond. For 2021, the group aims to attract more than half a million participants around the world!
The COVID-19 pandemic has only highlighted the urgency of plant-based eating, as raising animals for food can promote the creation and spread of dangerous diseases. Consumers are growing more aware of this connection, with sales of plant-based meat jumping 35 percent from April to May 2020. Tofu is also flying off the shelves. According to Nielsen, tofu sales in the first half of 2020 were a whopping 40 percent higher than last year. And Google searches for tofu recipes have nearly doubled since March. Actor and Veganuary supporter Alec Baldwin said:
During the pandemic, we have cooked all our meals at home and have moved to a completely plant-based diet in this house. When you prepare your own food, it’s interesting how your tastes change. And any animal products become less appetizing when you prepare them, from start to finish, yourself.
Last year, Veganuary expected 350,000 participants and ended up with more than 400,000 from 192 countries! Among participants were rock legends Brian May and Meat Loaf. Veganuary also launched the first-ever vegan advertisement for mainstream U.K. television.
Since Veganuary was founded in 2014, over a million people have participated. Of those surveyed, 47 percent said they were committed to staying vegan, while 77 percent of those not committed said they were “very likely to try veganism again.”
People who take the Veganuary pledge get support through emails, social media content, and membership in a Facebook group. Veganuary also encourages brands, manufacturers, and retailers to expand their plant-based options. In fact, several huge companies, including Yelp, Mendocino Farms, Tofurky, Follow Your Heart, and Violife, have agreed to offer Veganuary promotions, giveaways, special menu items, and more.
Programs like Veganuary are a powerful way to introduce people to plant-based eating. Get started on your New Year’s resolution by taking the pledge, and order a FREE Vegetarian Starter Guide for recipes and tips!