Hey there! So, after the festive feast in December, when we all go a bit overboard with the eating and drinking, it’s like this collective decision in the UK to steer towards a healthier path in January.
And that’s where these two cool movements step in: Veganuary and Dry January.
Now, let’s zoom in on Veganuary in this post. It’s essentially a mix of ‘vegan‘ and ‘January,’ and what’s neat is that it’s not exclusive.
In 2013, the movement Veganuary was initiated at a kitchen table in York, UK.
Fast forward to 2023, and a whopping 700,000 people from 228 countries have joined the vegan bandwagon. Even celebs, including Billie Eilish, Brian May and Stevie Wonder, are embracing the plant-based vibe too!
However, Veganuary isn’t just about changing your diet.
According to the Cambridge dictionary, it’s an event that nudges us to go all-in on vegan food and products. It’s an invitation to be kinder to animals and make mindful choices in everything from what we eat to what we wear and even the furniture we pick.
And guess what? You can join in on the action now!
Head to the official Veganuary site, sign up with your email, and voila! You’ll receive a treasure trove of free PDF goodies from Team Veganuary— everything from a one-pot meal plan to nutritional advice and 31 coaching emails.
Now, if you’re like me and scrolling through all those PDFs feels like a marathon, no worries, just check out the 10 simple steps below to sprinkle a bit more veganism into your lifestyle.
Ready for the journey? Read on!
Make Your Morning Swap – Dairy Milk Out, Plant-Based Milk In
Let’s kick off this plant-powered journey by making a simple yet impactful change at breakfast.
Here’s the game plan: ditch the dairy milk and give plant-based milk a whirl in your cereal bowl. Not only does it shake things up, but it’s also a healthier choice.
Now, when it comes to plant-based milk, the options are like a rainbow of flavours—soy, rice, oats, peas, coconuts, almonds, hazelnuts, you name it.
Seventeen different types, to be precise! That’s more variety than your usual cow or goat milk.
Experiment with different kinds of plant-based milk, discover what clicks with your taste buds, and pair it perfectly with your favourite cereal.
For those who can’t imagine breakfast without a hot beverage, there’s a whole lineup of dairy-free milks tailored for tea, coffee, or a cosy cup of hot chocolate.
They even have fancy names like the barista edition. Trust me, the options have multiplied in recent years.
And guess what? Don’t hesitate to ask for vegan milk when you’re out and about, grabbing your morning coffee fix.
The cool thing is that some major coffee spots in the UK, like Starbucks and Pret A Manger, have dropped that extra charge for going dairy-free.
So, let’s start our day right—plant-based style!
Yoghurt Upgrade – Swap Dairy for Delicious Non-Dairy Alternatives
Whether it’s topping off your granola bowl, mixing into your overnight oats, or playing a role in your cooking and baking adventures, your regular yoghurt is getting a plant-based makeover.
Like non-dairy milk, non-dairy yoghurts come in a fantastic variety of flavours thanks to different plant sources like soy, coconut, oats, and cashews.
However, always check the label before diving in if you have nut or gluten allergies.
You might be wondering, ‘Does vegan yoghurt have the same health perks as dairy yoghurt?’
The answer is a resounding yes!
It all boils down to the yoghurt starter that kickstarts the fermentation process.
Whether it’s a starter culture or probiotic capsules, that’s where the health benefits come from, not whether it’s dairy or non-dairy.
And what about protein and calcium, you ask?
That’s a bit of a ‘depends on the brand‘ situation. Each plant-based yoghurt has its own set of nutritional perks.
So, roll up those sleeves, read the label, and you’ll know exactly what goodness you’re getting.
Cheese Swap – Dive into the World of Dairy-Free Delights
For those with lactose intolerance or who have consciously embraced dairy-free options, the shift from traditional cheese to plant-based alternatives is a notable transition.
Cheese, often a culinary cornerstone, can pose a challenge for those considering a vegan lifestyle, particularly for those with an affinity for its varied textures and flavours.
My personal journey mirrors this struggle; raised on a predominantly Chinese diet, I initially encountered cheese when residing in Western countries like Australia, the US, and the UK, developing a genuine appreciation for its diverse offerings.
Fortunately, the contemporary dairy-free cheese market provides an extensive array of alternatives, from everyday slices to artisanal varieties.
Brands such as I’m Nut Ok offer smoky melting and Italian herb options, while Violife presents vegan Camembert, and Nurrish provides vegan mozzarella-style blocks.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that the sensory experience of dairy-free cheeses may differ from their traditional counterparts.
Adjusting texture, saltiness, and flavour profile expectations is integral to the process.
Over time, taste preferences adapt, and individuals may find themselves favouring dairy-free alternatives, particularly when considering traditional cheese production’s ethical implications.
A word of caution: delving into the realities of animal treatment in conventional cheese production can be disconcerting.
The decision to forego dairy products aligns not only with culinary preferences but also with a commitment to mitigating animal cruelty. Thus, the transition to dairy-free cheese becomes a conscious choice, encompassing culinary exploration and ethical considerations.
Elevate Your Flavours – Trade Non-Vegan Condiments for Vegan Alternatives
Let’s delve into sauces and condiments, where a simple swap can make a significant difference.
Take mayonnaise, for instance, a versatile condiment that enhances the flavours of many dishes. Traditional mayo, comprising egg, oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), and salt, poses a challenge for those adhering to a vegan lifestyle due to its animal product content.
In addition to mayo, several other commonly used non-vegan sauces and condiments include sour creams, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, and pesto—staples in many UK households.
The good news is that alternatives abound.
Survey your kitchen cupboard; you might be surprised to find vegan-friendly options already present. Ketchup, brown sauce, mustard, and soy sauce are typically vegan, serving as easy, accessible swaps.
Make a note of these vegan finds or, if uncertain, leverage tools like the iVegan app, allowing you to scan product barcodes for instant vegan verification.
As you embark on your next grocery run, keep an eye out for these vegan alternatives. Major supermarket chains commonly stock them, often at reasonable prices compared to some speciality items, like vegan cheese.
For those feeling adventurous, crafting homemade vegan mayo is a straightforward endeavour, requiring only four ingredients. Check out my recipe here.
Besides, creating such staples at home contributes to a reduction in plastic packaging—a noteworthy plus in the pursuit of sustainable living!
Opt for Plant-Powered Alternatives – Transitioning from Meats to Meat-Free Replacements
The journey towards a plant-based diet can be eased with the introduction of meat-free substitutes in today’s market.
From vegan burgers, sausages, and hot dogs to plant-based chicken breasts, these alternatives often boast textures that closely mimic their meat counterparts.
While incorporating meat-free replacements can be a game-changer, it’s essential to exercise moderation.
These alternatives are typically highly processed and may not align with the healthiest vegan diet, especially for those motivated by health considerations.
Consider these fake meats as occasional treats rather than staples, given that some fall into the category of ‘junk food.’ Be sure to scrutinize the ingredient list if nutritional concerns weigh on your mind.
Beans, particularly kidney or black beans, mushrooms, extra firm tofu, and root vegetables like potatoes, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes serve as excellent, cost-effective, and nutritious substitutes.
These options not only maintain the heartiness of your dishes but also contribute to a healthier and more budget-friendly approach compared to store-bought mock meats.
Explore Vegan Takeaways – Unveiling Plant-Based Delights for Your Palate
Takeaways, a guilty pleasure for many, present a golden opportunity to infuse more vegan goodness into your routine.
While only 6% of Britons indulge in takeaways multiple times a week, 15% of UK households enjoy a weekly delivery.
The next time you opt for your favourite takeaway, keep your eyes peeled for those hidden vegan gems—you might be pleasantly surprised by the available delectable options.
Elevate your dining experience further by exploring vegan choices at your go-to restaurants, especially those part of national chains.
From McDonald’s, Burger King, and Pizza Hut to LEON, Subway, and Wagamama, major players in the food industry have embraced the plant-based wave, offering an array of vegan selections.
Burger King, for instance, took a bold step in 2022 by opening its first 100% vegan flagship restaurant, marking a successful trial run with plans for additional branches in the near future.
Notably, Wagamama, recognized for its Japanese ramen and curry dishes, has taken a significant leap towards inclusivity by making 50% of its menu plant-based. This ensures diverse dietary preferences are catered to.
Despite these exciting options, it’s wise to approach vegan fast food as an occasional indulgence. Whether meat-based or plant-based, fast food tends to be laden with unhealthy ingredients and often lacks essential nutrients.
Make Informed Choices – Opt for Vegan and Cruelty-Free Products
Veganuary extends beyond the realm of your plate; it’s a lifestyle shift that includes the products you bring into your daily routine.
To truly embrace Veganuary, the goal is to choose vegan items and opt for products that uphold cruelty-free principles.
It’s crucial to recognize that cruelty-free and vegan are distinct terms.
A product labelled as cruelty-free indicates that neither the finished product nor its components underwent animal testing.
On the other hand, vegan signifies that no animal-derived ingredients are present in the product.
While some items meet both criteria, it’s essential to distinguish between the two and avoid using them interchangeably.
Certain goods, such as leather products or cosmetics containing animal-derived ingredients or tested on animals, fall outside the realms of both vegan and cruelty-free categories.
Identifying these can sometimes be challenging, particularly with beauty and household cleaning products.
A simple solution involves checking for dual certifications—an official vegan logo and a certified cruelty-free bunny logo. These symbols offer assurance that the product aligns with both criteria.
Alternatively, third-party apps like Impact Score or Cares: Go Cruelty-Free act as detective tools, providing comprehensive information about a product’s vegan and cruelty-free status.
Whether deciphering labels or utilizing technology, making informed choices in favour of vegan and cruelty-free products is a meaningful step towards a more compassionate lifestyle.
Share the Journey – Rally Your Friends and Family to Embrace Veganuary Together
Embarking on the Veganuary challenge is undoubtedly more enjoyable and sustainable when you have company.
Just as working out becomes more engaging with friends, the same principle applies to the vegan lifestyle.
When you extend an invitation to friends or family to join you in this venture, even if only for a day or two, you create a supportive community where everyone helps and holds each other accountable.
Here are some ideas to make Veganuary a shared experience:
- Vegan grocery shopping expedition: Explore the aisles together, discovering new plant-based gems.
- Joint vegan meal prep: Get hands-on in the kitchen and cook a delicious vegan feast as a team.
- Workplace vegan lunch swap: Bring and share vegan-packed lunches at work, expanding the culinary horizon.
- Vegan hot Drink or smoothie treat: Indulge in a cosy vegan hot drink or blend refreshing smoothies for each other.
- Picnic in the park: Revel in the outdoors with a delightful vegan picnic, enjoying nature and plant-based treats.
- Vegan potluck dinner party: Host a gathering where everyone contributes a vegan dish, creating a diverse and delightful spread.
- Cruelty-free beauty product shopping: Hit the stores together, opting for only vegan and cruelty-free beauty products.
- Eco-Friendly household cleaning gift exchange: Gift each other vegan and cruelty-free household cleaning products, fostering a sustainable home.
The possibilities for shared experiences are boundless, adding a layer of fun and motivation to your Veganuary challenge.
Knowledge is Power – Uncover the Why Behind Veganuary
The Veganuary movement might have entered your awareness through various channels—perhaps via a friend’s social post, a TV talk show, or a radio interview.
However, encountering the trend doesn’t guarantee an immediate leap onto the vegan wagon.
Reflecting on my own journey, I first encountered Veganuary over six years ago, but my committed transition to a vegan lifestyle unfolded more prominently in the past three years.
The catalyst for this shift, whether from a meat-eater to a plant-based diet or the heightened scrutiny of skincare choices, remains somewhat elusive in my memory.
Nevertheless, what is crystal clear is the deepening awareness and understanding that has evolved over time.
Currently, my focus extends beyond eliminating meat and seafood from my diet to actively phasing out dairy.
This conscious shift stems from a broader education on climate change, the health advantages of a vegan diet, and considerations for animal welfare.
The more I delved into literature, watched relevant videos, and absorbed information, the more resolute I became in embracing a vegan lifestyle. My conscience now affirms that I am making a positive and impactful choice.
Acknowledge Your Progress – Celebrate Your Small Wins
Veganuary, a month-long challenge in January, might initially seem like a daunting task.
If you’re unsure about completing the challenge, incorporate the steps outlined above gradually. While they may appear as small steps to seasoned vegans, they hold immense significance for those new to this journey.
Select two or three methods from the steps provided and give them a shot.
Remember, these are steps toward progress, and the longer you practice them, the more natural they become. Even seemingly simple tasks can be a victory for newcomers in the early stages,
Celebrate your small wins—a vegan breakfast, a refusal of animal products during makeup shopping, or any action aligning with your vegan goals.
These incremental achievements lay the foundation for a long-term vegan lifestyle.
Each small win deserves acknowledgement and applause, so pat yourself on the back and carry that momentum forward after every accomplishment!
