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TofuTogether 

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Dogood

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Honestly Tasty

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Prism 

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Jake Drinks

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Otherly

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The Goode Life UK

As Christmas approaches, the anticipation of fun festivities can take precedence over the reality of the environmental impact of the season.&nbsp; However, it's crucial to consider climate impact during this time of year. According to <a href="https://www.gwp.co.uk/guides/christmas-packaging-facts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">GWP Group</a>, the Christmas period sees a 30% increase in produced and discarded waste in the UK, particularly in food waste, compared to the rest of the year.&nbsp; There must be a radical shift in our consumer habits and how we manage waste, plastic, food, wrapping gifts, and international shipping. Let's find eco-friendly ways to keep the Christmas spirit alive!&nbsp; <h2>To tree or not to tree?</h2>There is a debate on whether a real or artificial Christmas tree is best for the environment - it does depend on which tree, whether you’ll reuse it and how it will be disposed of.&nbsp; According to <a href="https://www.carbontrust.com/news-and-insights/news/the-carbon-trusts-tips-for-a-more-sustainable-christmas" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Carbon Trust</a>, “An artificial tree used over multiple years (7-20 times depending on the weight and different materials in the tree) is better for the environment than buying a new, commercially grown tree every year.” If you have a real tree with its roots still attached, rather than giving it to landfill, replant your Christmas tree or compost it, as a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help the government’s effort to plant more trees. If you’re buying a real tree, it’s important that it is certified by the <a href="https://fsc.org/en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)</a>. When decorating your tree, use LED lights, as they use less energy, last longer and look just as good. With decorations, save yourself money by upgrading old decorations or crafting your own using spare material around the house.&nbsp; <h2>Resist the urge to splurge</h2>We all want to spoil our loved ones and show appreciation for the year that has passed, but shocking statistics from <a href="https://www.gwp.co.uk/guides/christmas-packaging-facts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">GWP Group</a> tell us, “Each year, the UK spends £700 million on unwanted Christmas gifts. Consumers throw away approximately £42 million of unwanted presents each year (most end up in landfill). Of all purchases made in the UK for Christmas, only 1% will still be used six months after the big day.” Combat this by buying consciously and selectively. A good way to reduce waste is suggesting you take part in Secret Santa with your friends and family. By buying one gift each, you will have more money to spend on something they’re more likely to want, rather than small, throw-away gifts. You could even suggest only buying second-hand or charity shop items.&nbsp; Consider alternatives to the traditional retail experience when deciding what gifts to buy. Support your local artisans by purchasing one-of-a-kind locally crafted items, which are frequently available at local makers markets, and&nbsp;they prioritise&nbsp;the use of sustainable materials and practises: whether handmade jewellery, textiles, or home décor, markets and independent shops are full of hidden treasures that promote sustainable living. Material gifts aren’t everything! Gift an experience: booking someone a theatre trip, gig, or weekend away is a touching and exciting gift to offer. Another idea is vouchers or gift cards, which reduce waste by ensuring your recipient gets exactly what they want. Or, donate to charities, wildlife sanctuaries, or animal sanctuaries to help protect our wildlife, the environment, and human health for future generations. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1701520146/Image_1_80_pic_2_f0216937c9.png" alt="Lucie Liz/Pexels">Lucie Liz/Pexels <h2>Wrap with zero waste</h2>The typical wrapping paper on the high street is not sustainable because it is made of low-quality fibres dyed and covered in plastic and glitter, making it impossible to recycle. It's a serious problem because millions use this paper every Christmas. To combat this, consider reusing fabric wrap, recycled wrapping paper, gift bags from previous birthdays and Christmases, or furoshiki, a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth that is an eco-friendly, creative alternative for gift-giving. You could even use newspapers, magazines, coloured paper or cards to recycle and keep the eco-friendly gift-giving going. <h2>Save a turkey, have tofurky</h2>We know very well, and as <a href="https://unfccc.int/news/we-need-to-talk-about-meat#:~:text=As%20that%20report's%20lead%20researcher,land%20use%20and%20water%20use." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">researchers tell us</a>, “A vegan diet is probably the single biggest way to reduce your impact on planet Earth.” Fortunately, when it comes to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-christmas-dinner-ideas-that-everyone-can-enjoy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan Christmas options</a>, the advances are astounding. UK supermarkets such as Aldi, Tesco and Asda boast brilliant ranges such as 'Plant Chef' and ‘OMV!’, which offer fantastic vegan Wellingtons, ‘No-Turkey’ Crown Roasts and vegan puds. Whether cooking or buying ready-made, it’s worth trying something new and meat-free. It’s important not to waste food when cooking, as overbuying and overcooking during this period is so common, especially when you have big families.&nbsp; Work out portions when you’re catering to avoid throwing away food. Another tip is to freeze leftovers to buy some time before eating them. If you do have leftovers to throw away, be sure to use your correct recycling bins. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1701520334/Image_2_15_pic_3_92dc5a03ec.png" alt="Family celebrating Christmas sitting around a table while holding burning sparklers">Nicole Michalou/Pexels <h2>Ditch the fads</h2>With Christmas comes the party season, so we are often roped into finding something new to wear to suit the festive theme.&nbsp; A 2019 Hubbub study predicted that UK shoppers would spend £2.4 billion on party outfits for the Christmas party season that year, and many of these items would be worn fewer than three times. According to the <a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/un-alliance-sustainable-fashion-addresses-damage-fast-fashion" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)</a>, the fashion industry accounts for about 10% of global carbon emissions. Don’t be swayed into purchasing clothes for one-time use. Focus on what you already have, swapping with friends or buying second-hand clothes as an alternative.&nbsp;&nbsp; <h2>Have a very merry Christmas!</h2>Be mindful of the commercial nature of Christmas and focus on making a meaningful impact on those you love with gifts that last, packaging that recycles, and a tasty vegan dinner that pleases the entire family.&nbsp; You may want some tips for making the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-christmas-dinner-ideas-that-everyone-can-enjoy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">perfect vegan Christmas dinner</a> or our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-types-of-family-members-that-a-vegan-can-face-at-christmas" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Christmas survival guide for vegans</a>.

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Dreaming of a Green Christmas? Here's how to celebrate sustainably 


Christmas specials are on the TV, carols and festive hits are playing in every shop, Christmas lights are illuminating the high street - it's the most festive time of the year! For some of us it's time to dread that last-minute panic before we finally brave the shops to buy Christmas gifts, while others are more organised and already admiring their perfectly wrapped gifts and well-stocked cupboards and fridges. Whether it's all going to plan or you're hoping it'll all come together at the last moment, there's still time for you to buy the perfect Secret Santa gift.&nbsp; But, what do you buy for your vegan Secret Santa? Worry not festive friends, V-Land UK have got you covered. Your colleagues will think you are the most thoughtful colleague in the office with these vegan secret Santa ideas that can be found on the high street. <h2>Whittard Instant Tea</h2><a href="https://instagram.com/whittardofchelsea1886?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Whittard</a> powdered instant tea in festive <a href="https://www.whittard.co.uk/instant-tea/mulled-wine-flavour-instant-tea-342881.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mulled Wine</a> flavour comes in a beautiful tin and is the perfect Secret Santa gift at £10. Browse their website for <a href="https://www.whittard.co.uk/search?q=Instant+tea&amp;lang=en_GB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">more instant tea flavours</a> for more secret Santa gifts £10 or under. <h2>Marks &amp; Spencer's Sparkle</h2>Bound to be a hit this year, <a href="https://www.ocado.com/products/m-s-marks-sparkle-591368011" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">this vegan-friendly sparkling wine</a> sparkles all the more with the addition of edible 22ct gold leaf. Marks &amp; Spencer describe it as “crisp and citrusy with notes of pear and melon.” If you're looking for an alcohol-free Secret Santa gift, you can also find £10 and £5.50 chocolate boxes from Marks &amp; Spencer's Plant Kitchen range or a £5 bag of vegan fudge. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1669733737/Image_1_29_pic_2_edit_1_1936cd5ec2.jpg" alt="AT: Bottle of Marks &amp; Spencer’s ‘Sparkle’ - vegan sparkling wine"><a href="https://www.marksandspencer.com/marks-and-sparkle-wine-based-drink-with-22-carat-gold-leaf-case-of-6/p/wnp60590193" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Marks &amp; Spencer</a> <h2>Boots</h2><a href="https://instagram.com/joeandseph?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Joe &amp; Seph's</a> <a href="https://www.boots.com/joe-and-sephs-gourmet-popcorn-vegan-gourmet-popcorn-selection-box-128g-10283239" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Gourmet Vegan Popcorn Selection Box</a> is available in Boots for £7.87. A box includes four flavours; Vegan Salted Caramel, Vegan Toffee Apple &amp; Cinnamon, Vegan Coconut &amp; Cacao and rich Vegan Dark Chocolate. These are perfect small vegan Secret Santa gifts under £10 and also a great stocking filler to prepare for a festive film night. <h2>Neal's Yard&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/nealsyardremedies/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Neal's Yard</a> <a href="https://www.nealsyardremedies.com/products/dreamy-nights-sleep-duo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Dreamy Nights Sleep Duo</a> includes their Goodnight Pillow Mist and Relaxation Remedies To Roll. Made with relaxing, sustainability sourced French lavender from the unspoilt foothills of the French Alps, this miniature gift set promises to aid blissful sleep a bit over budget for £12 (it featured on our 2022 list, we have inflation to blame for taking it over £10 in 2023 - it keeps its spot as it’s still good value). <h2>Lush Butterbear</h2>If you're looking for Secret Santa gifts under £5, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lush/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lush's</a> <a href="https://www.lush.com/uk/en/p/butterbear-bath-bomb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Butterbear bath bomb</a> is a perfect small gift if the recipient likes a long soak in the bath. We chose the Butterbear as it's sulphate-free, enriched with ylang-ylang oil and softening Fair Trade organic cocoa butter with no nasties for just £3.50. <a href="http://www.instagram.com/lush" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lush</a> have plenty of vegan products, one of our favourites being their <a href="https://www.lush.com/uk/en/p/dont-look-at-me-fresh-face-mask" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Don't Look At Me</a> skin brightening face mask, a vibrant, lemon scented, bright blue face mask, the gift of self care for your vegan secret Santa. It’s also worth checking out <a href="http://www.instagram.com/thebodyshop" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Body Shop</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/hollandandbarrett" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Holland &amp; Barrett</a>, or, if personalised gifts are your thing, <a href="http://www.instagram.com/etsyuk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Etsy</a> is a great place for eco-friendly, vegan gift ideas too.&nbsp; For the ultimate eco-friendly Christmas gift, why not check out your local charity stores for a one-of-a-kind find at an unbeatable price. Our personal fave option! Or, for more vegan Secret Santa gifts you might want to check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/7-organic-vegan-brands-worth-checking-out" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">7 organic vegan brands</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-and-cruelty-free-makeup-for-your-travel-bag" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan and cruelty free makeup for your travel bag</a>.

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Impress your office with these vegan Secret Santa gifts under £10 

The Retreat Animal Rescue &amp; Sanctuary in Kent, is home to over 1,250 animals, and has saved 20,000 animals over the last thirty years.&nbsp; The sanctuary has a strong community vibe, whereby people come together to volunteer their time and skills to look after non-human animals.&nbsp; <h2>The Retreat’s residents</h2><a href="https://www.retreatanimalrescue.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Retreat</a> has a diverse range of rescue animals, from cats and dogs, peacocks and donkeys, to ex-race horses and ex-riding school ponies, The Retreat does not discriminate, supporting domestic, wild and farm animals. The site feels like a little vegan paradise, with volunteers caring for the animals and creating a welcoming community space with an emphasis on love and compassion. The Retreat states&nbsp;that they “are pressing for a more enlightened world where humans remember their dignity and show compassion and love to all others, regardless of sex, race, age, gender, disability or species.” On visiting, volunteers will happily take the time to tell you each animal's story, and how they came to be in the sanctuary. You can get up close and personal with some of the animals, too, if you book one of the tours. One of the success stories from The Retreat is about a dog called Ranger who was found close to death, starved and chained to an old pallet. This poor boy had just been forgotten about. Thankfully Ranger was rescued and now lives with other dogs and a very loving family. Residents who have disabilities or are elderly are given extra care by the staff and volunteers, which is heartwarming, as many of these animals would not have been allowed to live in other settings.&nbsp; <h2><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1700304834/Image_1_79_pic_2_bc695b7f84.png" alt="AT: Chicken from The Retreat Animal Rescue"></h2>Sean Barrs <h2>Events</h2>The sanctuary hosts an annual fundraiser festival, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildkindhearts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Wild Kind Hearts Campout</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildkindhearts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">.</a> The 2023 version of the event was a great success, with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mobiusloopmusic/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mobius Loop</a> providing the stage and headlining the weekend. It was a fantastic opportunity to hear speeches from activists and representatives from several organisations and backgrounds.&nbsp; There are also markets and special fundraising events run throughout the year by other Sanctuary supporters.&nbsp; If you want to keep up to date with information about these events, you can do so by following their social media pages, which you should also do to see all the cute animal photos! <h2>Ways to support&nbsp;</h2>There are many ways to support an animal sanctuary like The Retreat, such as visiting and spending money in the (amazing) onsite vegan café and shops - you can also stay in one of the onsite lodges to spend even more time at the sanctuary. Other ways to support include attending the events, promoting The Retreat on social media, and donating. Donations are always welcome; this does not necessarily have to be money. It could be items for the sanctuary to sell in their thrift store or even bedding, food or toys for the many residents. Plus, the sanctuary has several different volunteering roles you can apply for. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1700304972/Image_2_14_pic_3_5691fa2537.png" alt="Welcome sign for The Retreat Animal Rescue in Kent">Sean Barrs <h2>Find out more</h2>If you’re interested in learning more about The Retreat, you can check out their <a href="https://www.retreatanimalrescue.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">website</a> and read their full story. Or you could go one step further and buy <a href="https://instagram.com/billythompson.theretreat?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Billy Thompson</a>’s book, <a href="https://www.retreatanimalrescue.org.uk/earth-boy-book-by-billy-thompson" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Earth Boy</a>. He founded the sanctuary and shares his inspiring journey inside. Not only do sanctuaries help animals, but they also <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-sanctuaries-affirm-a-vegan-life" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">affirm a vegan lifestyle</a>, and have you heard about these <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/animal-sanctuaries-to-support-across-the-uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">animal sanctuaries</a> across the UK?

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The Retreat Animal Rescue: A sanctuary of compassion


The UK was once rich in biodiversity, from insects and amphibians to herbivores and omnivores, and once upon a time, home to a multitude of carnivores too. From wild bears to wolves and lynxes, our country had an impressive selection of predators roaming the land. Sadly, the UK is no longer home to such creatures, and many carnivores that remain are endangered.&nbsp;The largest surviving terrestrial carnivores in the UK are badgers, but they too face a great threat. Just like the larger deceased predators, these smaller, yet equally wondrous creatures, face a threat that species across the globe struggle to cope with daily - living alongside humans.&nbsp;Badgers have lived in our country since the ice age and are a keystone species; their presence helps keep other animals and insects in balance, and they provide a multitude of environmental benefits, from regenerating soil health through foraging to dispersing seeds and helping maintain healthy ecosystems.&nbsp; Badgers are often tarnished with the misplaced presumption of being dirty, but the iconic badger opts to eat outside of their setts in order to keep their living space clean, and they even build their own latrines! They can also make great neighbours, such as lovable internet sensations <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mrlumpyandfriends/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mr Lumpy &amp; Friends</a>.&nbsp;UK badgers were given protected status in 1992 due to excessive poaching and badger baiting, but things took a detrimental turn once again for the species in 2013 when the government initiated a badger cull.&nbsp; The government recently published its <a href="https://naturalengland.blog.gov.uk/2023/09/29/state-of-nature/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">State of Nature Report</a>, and the findings concluded with stark clarity: nature in the UK is suffering, with <a href="https://www.rspb.org.uk/our-work/state-of-nature-report" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">1 in 6 species threatened with extinction</a>. And those that aren’t, face severe struggles due to extreme habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. UK badgers face the additional threat of being legally persecuted by humans, as part of the ongoing badger cull. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1700304126/Image_1_78_pic_2_e302e04360.png" alt="Badger peering over a mound in a forest">Hans Veth/Unsplash In the past ten years, <a href="https://www.badgertrust.org.uk/cull" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">over 210,000 badgers</a> have lost their lives since the UK badger cull began, which was proposed to reduce the spread of bovine tuberculosis in cows reared for human consumption. Bovine TB has been documented as one of the biggest challenges that cattle farmers face, with over 330,000 cows having been culled due to the disease. ﻿It is worth noting that the disease is curable with a 6- to 12-month course of antibiotics, although this is deemed financially unviable within the industry. Any cows that present symptoms of the disease are slaughtered, often with others within the herd, to prevent any potential spread.&nbsp; The disease is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium Bovis, which badgers have been known to carry, however, <a href="https://www.badgertrust.org.uk/post/badgers-not-a-key-source-of-bovine-tb-latest-released-study-shows#:~:text=The%20Badger%20Trust%20has%20today,but%20rather%20a%20spillover%20host." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">data suggests</a> that badgers are not the primary cause of bovine TB in cows. Current <a href="http://badgertrust.org.uk/badger-cull-facts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">scientific evidence</a> outlines that culling badgers is likely ineffective in fighting the disease, and could risk worsening the issue. We sat down with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dominic_dyer1970/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dominic Dyer</a>, ex-CEO of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/badgertrust/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Badgers Trust</a> and author of the critically acclaimed novel, <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Badgered-Death-People-Politics-Badger/dp/0993040756" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Badgered to Death</a>, to hear his thoughts on the cull, and potential solutions to protect both cows and badgers from further persecution. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1700304242/Image_2_13_pic_3_f276ef5958.png" alt="Dominic Dyer speaking into a mic and holding up his book, Badgered to Death">Dominic Dyer ﻿V-Land UK (V-L): What are your thoughts on the UK badger cull? Dominic Dyer (DD): I’ve fought the badger cull for over ten years. We said from the beginning that it wouldn’t be effective, as the major problem of bovine TB is cattle-to-cattle spread, so killing badgers, who are not primarily spreading the disease, isn’t the answer. Over 210,000 badgers have been killed since 2013, and the vast majority of those animals did not have TB. The badgers are often killed by a controlled shooting method, which is extremely cruel, it can take them five minutes to die, wounded from blood loss and organ failure.&nbsp; We haven’t seen any evidence to show that removing those large numbers of badgers is actually lowering bovine TB in and around the cull zones (which now go from Cornwall up to Cumbria).&nbsp; Ultimately, the answer long term would be to vaccinate cattle from the disease rather than kill badgers, but this is something that the government has repeatedly delayed. V-L: If badgers aren’t the primary cause of bovine TB, could the living conditions of cows be contributing towards the disease, and would alternative measures be more successful than the cull? DD: Certainly - <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/badger-cull-covid-animal-rights-b1846851.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">I wrote an article on this last year</a>. We can learn a lot from Covid when it comes to bovine TB in cattle.&nbsp; Ultimately, this disease is spread within animals in close proximity to each other, and in damp conditions, just as TB is spread between humans in similar conditions.&nbsp; We have cows that are kept in large numbers, crammed into sheds for six months of the year, which spreads the disease, and they’re then moved around the country for fattening and cattle markets, and again are then spreading that disease.&nbsp; We need to tackle how herds are housed and maintained, and implement a better testing system.&nbsp; At the moment, we use a skin test based on 1930s technology that, in many cases, can miss cows that are infected. So even if a farmer is led to believe a herd is TB-free, there could be infected cows that then get moved elsewhere and further the spread of disease. This is a constant problem that we find.&nbsp; New techniques are coming through which are based on scientific methods, but they aren’t being given to farmers as an easily accessible tool to use in tackling the disease, and they are expensive. So that definitely needs to be dealt with. V-L: What are your thoughts on people lowering their consumption of beef and dairy products, to lower the number of cows within the system, as a realistic long-term solution to bovine TB? DD: That’s a much bigger issue. Ultimately, intensive livestock farming is cruel, and unsustainable from an environmental perspective. We get a huge amount of slurry going into our rivers, we hear a lot about water companies and sewage in the media, but farm slurry is equally as bad, it’s a terrible problem and it’s getting worse.&nbsp; And it’s very dirty from a disease prevention situation. We know that bovine TB spreads, and it’s another problem we face within the farming sector, such as avian flu within the food supply chain. The more we intensify the production of poultry or cattle, the more dangerous zoonotic diseases can spread from animals to humans.&nbsp; TB was a major problem in the 1930s before we began pasteurising milk and putting safety procedures into slaughterhouses, a lot of people got very sick, and many people died. In time, we’ve reduced that problem massively within the human population, but we’re still taking it out on wildlife as a risk factor.&nbsp; Yes, we do need to change our farming system, but that’s a big picture that needs to change not just in Britain, but around the world. But as ever in human nature, we probably won’t take action until we’ve got no alternative. V-L: You clearly have a passion for wildlife which is great to see. What are the environmental benefits of badgers that often go unnoticed? DD: There are many benefits to badgers, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/backshall.steve/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Steve Backshall</a> did a brilliant two-part series: Badgers: Their Secret World, <a href="https://www.channel5.com/show/badgers-their-secret-world/season-1/episode-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">available to watch</a> now; he’s got a passion for them too.&nbsp; We get such a demonisation of these animals which leads to persecution, but they are our largest surviving carnivore and they’re amazing to see in the wild. Most of us only ever see them dead by the side of the road, so this programme is great viewing to gain an insight into badgers' lives. They’re amazing diggers, they move the earth to dig their setts, to dig latrines and when they’re foraging for food, and as they do, they move the ecosystem which benefits woodland, grasslands, and other areas that they live in.&nbsp; Just by existing they help keep in balance other predatory animals such as stotes, weasels, and rats, which otherwise would spread and feed on ground-nesting birds for example, so the badgers’ presence alone keeps British wildlife as we know it in balance.&nbsp; We remove badgers at our peril; yet we are removing large numbers of them through the cull, in places where they’ve lived since the ice age. We don’t know what the long-term impact of that would be, so I guess we’ll just have to wait and see. But we do have hope. We have hope too! And thankfully, there are many ways people can help, from <a href="https://www.badgertrust.org.uk/you" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">getting involved with The Badger Trust</a>, supporting a local <a href="https://www.huntsabs.org.uk/hunt-saboteurs-fight-the-brutal-badger-cull/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">HSA Group</a> or simply allowing badgers to roam freely if you are lucky enough to have a sett close by. Perhaps in time, the beloved British badger will be a cherished national treasure once more. To help more nature on your doorstep, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/is-it-time-to-ditch-artificial-lawns-and-let-gardens-rewild" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">how to rewild your garden</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/save-the-earth-the-biodiversity-crisis-nobody-is-talking-about" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">the biodiversity crisis nobody is talking about</a>.

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Are badgers the primary cause of bovine TB in the UK?

Animal Advocacy Careers (AAC) are career advisors specialising in advertising jobs that benefit animals. The website has an international <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/job-board" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">job board</a> that is updated weekly, and it highlights the positions that are typically quite hard to fill.&nbsp; The initiative was launched in 2019 through the Charity Entrepreneurship&nbsp;Incubation Program, with the purpose of matching people to roles that help animals the most. <h2>The mission behind AAC</h2>If advocates can dedicate their working lives to the animal advocacy movement, rather than just their free time, they can benefit the movement far more effectively. Advocates can attain jobs that allow them to maximise their positive contribution to the movement. “AAC is <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/about" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">not just an organisation</a>, it's a community of people united by a shared goal, determined to change the world for animals through our work.” Their focus is on networking, and putting employers in touch with skilled and experienced candidates who can bring their expertise to organisations that work towards helping animals.&nbsp; Since the initiative was launched, the advisors have helped over a hundred people change careers, thousands of dollars have been raised, and thousands of people have interacted with their online resources.&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1699697261/Image_1_77_pic_2_31db992855.png" alt="Close-up of a brown cow’s eye and face with the words ‘give your career a deeper meaning’ spelled out over it.">Animal Advocacy Careers <h2>Success stories&nbsp;</h2>Susanna Feder, Philanthropy Manager&nbsp;-&nbsp;Animal Equality UK, spent decades working in sales and managing accounts for big media companies like the BBC. One day, she came across AAC's Recruitment Specialist on LinkedIn. With their encouragement, she applied for a fundraising role at Animal Equality. Even though she hadn't planned on it, Susanna saw that her experience and values matched the role perfectly. Thanks to AAC's guidance, she stepped into a new role that aligned with her beliefs. Susanna's story teaches us that unexpected connections can lead to amazing opportunities. AAC helped her find a meaningful way to use her skills and make a positive impact. This is but one example, and there are many equally as encouraging listed on their <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/success-stories" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">success stories wall</a>, highlighting this initiative does work, and it places skilled candidates in jobs where they can make a difference. <h2>Resources available&nbsp;</h2>The website has several resources available to help both candidates and employers. These include an online course, a job board, and a guide to effective animal advocacy. The resources are designed to equip candidates with knowledge about the importance of working in advocacy, and to highlight the skills they need to succeed.&nbsp; The website also offers career advice through showcasing <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/skills-profiles" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">skill profiles</a>. These are in fundraising, management, technical research, politics and growing the movement in countries where animal advocacy is small or relatively new. These are high-impact career choices that allow an individual to maximise their impact. In addition to this, <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/animal-volunteer-opportunities" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">volunteer opportunities</a> are highlighted to help those interested in such roles gain experience and expertise.&nbsp; The team has also compiled a comprehensive list of <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/resources" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">resources</a> to provide as much help and support as possible. These include career planning strategies, ways to maintain motivation in the face of job rejection and information designed to help you make informed career decisions. Overall, it is a fantastic list for those seeking work in this space. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1699702089/getry_c7e2d7aa65.png" alt="Lamb with ‘Animal Advocacy Careers’ graphic over the top of it">Animal Advocacy Careers﻿ <h2>Where to start</h2>If you’re interested in a career in animal advocacy, the best place to start is with ACC’s <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/course" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">free online course</a>. It is designed to introduce you to the topic and guide you through available options.&nbsp; To learn more about AAC, check out their <a href="https://www.animaladvocacycareers.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">website</a> and follow them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/animaladvocacycareers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/animal-advocacy-careers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">LinkedIn</a> to receive all their updates.&nbsp; For more inspiration, we speak with <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/ed-winters-shares-why-he-s-compelled-to-champion-vegan-activism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Ed Winters</a>, on championing vegan activism, and know your vegan employment rights under the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegans-are-people-too-equality-act-2010-and-vegan-rights-at-work" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Equality Act</a>.

Chicken with ‘Animal Advocacy Careers’ graphic over the top of it

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Animal Advocacy Careers: Helping you help the animals 

Christmas in the Big Apple, where joyous people fill the streets, bright twinkling lights adorn every corner, and snow blankets the city's tall trees; it's like a page torn from a storybook.&nbsp; While New York City may be famous for its iconic skyline and bustling streets, during the festive season it transforms into a winter wonderland. This city comes alive with the holiday spirit, and its vegan food scene is nothing short of magical. From uptown Manhattan all the way to downtown, we are spilling the cocoa beans on a vegan's dream come true. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Upper West Side to Times Square&nbsp;</h2>You didn't think we would come all this way and not try to find some vegan eggnog, did you? We made it our mission to find it, and low and behold, we did at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/blossom.nyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Blossom on Columbus</a>! We got the wild mushroom pizza and the grilled cheese and soup to keep us warm (although we think the three drinks each did the trick).&nbsp; After your meal, stroll over to Central Park. Some places to visit include <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tavernonthegreen/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Tavern on the Green</a>, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, and ice skating at the famous <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wollmanrinknyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Wollman Rink</a>.&nbsp; Then, mosey down to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rockefellercenter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rockefeller Center</a> and make sure to check out Saks 5th Ave. light show! It starts at around 5 pm and does the full light show every 10-15 minutes.&nbsp; Keep making your way down the city until you reach Times Square because you don't go to New York without a visit to Times Square. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/moxytimessquare/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Moxy Times Square</a> has a secret pink-tinted wonderland on its backyard terrace. It's as if Barbie redecorated the North Pole! <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Midtown Manhattan&nbsp;</h2>For a quick and delicious lunch, head over to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/beyondsushinyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Beyond Sushi</a>. Their innovative vegan sushi rolls are a hit among younger generations, and their dumplings are flavourful pockets of joy. Don't forget to try their fried chick'n bao buns, which are out of this world good. Go during weekdays from 11:30 - 3 pm to catch their lunch specials.&nbsp; And after your lunch, head over to <a href="https://instagram.com/bryantparknyc?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bryant Park</a>, just a stone's throw away. It turns into a whimsical market with ice skating,&nbsp;shopping, and holiday treats galore. Go and grab some "Bean-to-bar &amp; transparently sourced" vegan chocolate from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/raakachocolate/?hl=en#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Raaka Chocolate</a>, and be ready to indulge in some laughter as you watch people not so gracefully fall on the ice rink.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">NoMad NY</h2>A one-minute walk from the iconic Christmas igloos at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/230fifthrooftop/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">230 Fifth Rooftop</a> with a dazzling view of the Empire State Building, you can find the best Bang Bang Broccoli you've ever tasted! <a href="https://www.instagram.com/plantaqueen/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Planta Queen</a> offers an elegant dinner experience in a beautiful, lounge-esque setting. We had the Unagi Eggplant Nigiri and the Torched &amp; Pressed (avocado with miso truffle glaze), and we couldn't have been happier.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eatalynewyorkcity/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Eataly</a> is right next door, and upstairs, you can find their rooftop restaurant, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/serrabybirreria/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">SERRA by Birreria</a>, both offering a much-appreciated festive atmosphere. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1699696488/Image_1_76_pic_2_9edeaa09e6.png" alt=" Lit-up Christmas igloos at 230 Fifth Rooftop in New York City at night time with a lit-up New York cityscape in the background">Jessie Childs <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Union Square&nbsp;</h2>Dive into <a href="https://www.instagram.com/peacefoodnyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Peacefood</a>’s menu with a cup of mint hot chocolate and a freshly made cookie - it's a match made in holiday heaven. This cosy spot is perfect for unwinding and refuelling before setting off again on a holiday adventure.&nbsp; Right outside of Peacefood, you'll find the <a href="http://www.usqholiday.nyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Union Square Holiday Market</a>, with over 160 vendors, which is considered one of the best holiday markets in the United States! Just another short walk away, you will find <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rolfsny/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rolfs</a> where you can immerse yourself in a Christmas fairy tale as you sip on festive cocktails. It’s as if the Grinch's bag of stolen decorations exploded here, but in the best possible way! Be sure to make a reservation in advance.&nbsp; (If you are looking for more Christmas-themed bars and restaurants, you may also want to check out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lilliesvictorian/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lillie’s Victorian Establishment</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/oscarwildenyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Oscar Wilde</a>). <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1699696606/Image_2_12_pic_3_6e93a9ea4c.png" alt="Rolfs in New York City at Christmas">Jessie Childs <h2 class="ql-align-justify">West Village&nbsp;</h2>In the heart of the West Village, you have one of our favourite restaurants in New York City: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/spicymoonnyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Spicy Moon</a>. Their vegan wontons in chilli oil are legendary, and their classic dan dan noodles and kung pao style vegetables will surely make your taste buds sing some carols.&nbsp; The artsy IFC Center right next door hosts one of our favourite holiday traditions every year - a big screen showing of <a href="https://www.ifccenter.com/films/its-a-wonderful-life/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">It's a Wonderful Life</a>; because you can't help but wonder if George Bailey actually does end up having a wonderful life. We may or may not be crying just thinking about it. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">East Village&nbsp;</h2>Craving Mexican? <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jajajamexicana/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Jajaja Mexicana</a> in the East Village is your go-to spot for vegan tacos, nachos, and spectacular margaritas. Don't let the name fool you, their food is anything but laughable. Not only is this place amazing, but it is also located right next to two places that are not to be missed.&nbsp; First up is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/orchardgrocer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Orchard Grocer</a>, an all-vegan deli serving up delicious sandwiches along with loads of vegan treats to take with you back to your hotel. The next place is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/riverdelnyc/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Riverdel - The Original Vegan Cheese Monger</a>, which, as you probably guessed, has vegan cheeses! Another treat to take back with you.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Brooklyn, NY&nbsp;</h2>Spend a day in Brooklyn, take our word for it. It has so much to offer this holiday season, such as the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bkflea/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Brooklyn Flea Winter Market</a> and <a href="https://secretnyc.co/brooklyn-borough-hall-holiday-market/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Brooklyn Borough Hall Holiday Market</a>, brimming with unique, handmade gifts. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/termsofendearmentbk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Terms of Endearment</a> is smack dab in the middle of the fun. Here, you can find an ample variety of breakfast sandwiches and pastries.&nbsp; And if you have spent any time living in New York, you know that a real New Yorker loves their B.E.C (bacon, egg and cheese), and Terms of Endearment lets you live out that fantasy, vegan style. Other noteworthy Brooklyn vegan delights close by would be <a href="https://www.instagram.com/modernlovebrooklyn/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Modern Love</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/seitanshelper/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Seitans Helper</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/screamerspizzeria/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Screamers Pizzeria</a>.&nbsp; If you're looking for more vegan-friendly places to travel to this winter, check out why <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-travel-is-winter-the-best-time-to-visit-prague" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Prague</a> is the place to be, or if you’re having friends and family over, enjoy some <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-christmas-dinner-ideas-that-everyone-can-enjoy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Christmas dinner ideas</a> everyone can enjoy.

People skating at Bryant Park Ice Rink in New York City at Christmas

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A merry vegan Christmas in New York: Celebrate the holidays

A tick which can cause an allergy to certain meats and potentially other animal products? On the face of it, it may sound like a dream for those who want meat consumption to fall globally.&nbsp; “‘Alpha-gal’ is short for galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose. It’s a type of carbohydrate found in the muscles of mammals. <a href="https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/alpha-gal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Alpha-gal allergy</a> starts when you are bitten by a tick which carries the alpha-gal molecule in its saliva.” As with all allergies, <a href="https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Alpha-gal-Allergy-Factsheet-V5-1.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">symptoms and reactions</a> can vary, from some people not knowing they have the allergy, to extreme reactions, such as anaphylaxis; so, we wouldn’t want to wish this on anybody, even if it could curtail meat consumption. There are a <a href="https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/alpha-gal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">variety of products</a> those with alpha-gal allergy need to avoid including all meat and offal from mammals. They may need to avoid certain other animal products such as gelatine and dairy products and perhaps certain medications.&nbsp; According to Anaphylaxis UK, the only known plant food that contains alpha-gal is carrageenan, so some people may need to avoid this. So far, <a href="https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(15)00076-7/fulltext" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">research</a> suggests that this allergy is predominantly caused by the Lone Star tick. A recent <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-66333478" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">BBC article</a> reports that “US scientists have traced alpha-gal to saliva from the lone star tick… [which] is mostly found in southern and eastern parts of the US. But experts warn that their range is expanding due to climate change.” A report by <a href="https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/alpha-gal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Anaphylaxis UK</a>, highlights that there are other types of ticks that are causing this allergy in different places globally. However, <a href="https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/alpha-gal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">not all species</a> of ticks cause the allergy.&nbsp; Luckily, alpha-gal allergy isn’t affecting many people in the UK. However, for our friends across the pond (and other areas of the world, such as certain rural areas in <a href="https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/fact-sheet/tick-bites-and-allergic-reactions-to-red-meat/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">South Africa</a>), <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2023/p0727-emerging-tick-bites.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">it’s a growing problem</a>.&nbsp; The report also highlights that if you love spending lots of time outside in wooded areas, you may want to take some extra precautions such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and checking your skin for ticks when you get home.&nbsp; If you suspect an alpha-gal allergy, consult your GP. They can refer you to a specialised allergy clinic, if necessary, and you can find more information available through the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (<a href="https://www.bsaci.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">BSACI</a>). For more allergy-related content check out our article which <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/can-those-with-allergies-to-animal-products-eat-vegan-food-safely" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">explores the ‘loophole’ around vegan labelling</a> and what this means for those with allergies to animal products.

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Could ticks turn people vegan? The alpha-gal allergy mystery

<a href="https://www.thegoodelifeuk.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">The Goode Life UK</a> provide a home to animals with disabilities, older animals, or those with additional needs.&nbsp; This family-run, self-funded, non-profit animal sanctuary based in Yorkshire, works tirelessly to offer the best possible care to rescue hens, cats, and dogs. Their compassion for saving vulnerable animals is truly inspiring.&nbsp; We speak to owner Lexy Goode about where it started, fostering from abroad, and tips for those looking to get involved with animal rescue or sanctuary work. V-Land UK (V-L): Hi Lexy. Thank you so much for speaking to us today. We’d love to know where this started and understand the sanctuary's background.&nbsp; Lexy Goode (LG): We’ve always had rescue animals, and it started with one cat. She lived to be 20 years old and had all sorts of medical issues, including fighting diabetes twice. She needed a lot of care at the end, and then we had other cats we would take on that were older. I was volunteering at an animal sanctuary in Norfolk and ended up in the cattery, bringing cats home who were being rehomed and who were elderly or in pairs.&nbsp; We always take elderly cats; we thought, why don’t we take the ones who have disabilities or special needs? It was never a plan, but it was a natural thing that happened.&nbsp; Around six years ago, we started rescuing chickens as well as cats - and Benny. Benny is our senior dog with three legs from Romania with acute PTSD trauma who now has a wheelchair.&nbsp; He’s like our mascot because everywhere we go, everyone stops and wants to chat to find out what's wrong'. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1698488546/Image_1_75_pic2_2cc57d4954.png" alt="Disabled dog with a wheelchair next to a ‘disabled badge holders only’ sign">Lexy Goode V-L: Are there any heartwarming success stories of animals saved through your efforts? LG: There’s the story of Bobo, one of our cats from Greece. She was quite happily living in a colony and fed by the locals. She had kittens that the locals had found homes for, and they all lived harmoniously together.&nbsp; Then, one day she went missing and days later, someone found her under a car in a horrendous state, crying and she was rushed to the vet.&nbsp; On inspection and X-ray, they found she was riddled with pellet bullets, her back leg was so damaged it had to be amputated, and her other leg didn’t work. No one knows exactly what happened, but she had gone from being a super friendly cat to a terrified cat.&nbsp; She was taken on board by a charity called Miracles Mission and that’s where we found her.&nbsp; She came over to live with us and stayed in a corner for about a year, terrified when you went near her, unable to walk properly with her one remaining back leg dragging behind her.&nbsp; Three years on, she’s like a different cat. Her back leg works now, and she can push back up on it.&nbsp; We’re in contact with a guy who used to feed her regularly in Greece. He contacted me and was shocked that she now looks like the cat she used to be.&nbsp; All our animals have been transformed, but Bobo’s story was so sad. For her to have all that trauma, to see her now being open and happy is lovely. V-L: We noticed that you have rescue animals from around the world. How do you find and rescue these animals? LG: From my experience in a cattery and knowing people who do similar work, the conditions in sanctuaries are good, but nothing is as good as a home.&nbsp; With animals abroad, you have the problem of stray animals being everywhere and people dumping animals once they have finished breeding them or if they have disabilities. People don’t see them in the same way we do over here.&nbsp; On the other hand, a lot of the rescuers who do good over there may not have the capability or capacity to look after them, so some of the time it can create a hoarding situation, which is not beneficial to the animal. It’s a huge problem; if the animals aren’t taken off their hands, how can they take in more animals? With regards to finding them, I don’t have to find them; they find me.&nbsp; I’m contacted all the time to help share contact information on cats who are looking for a home, which is incredibly frustrating as we don’t have any more space here.&nbsp; We're looking to get a network of trusted foster carers so animals can come over here with a view to give them a forever home. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1698488638/Image_2_11_pic3_08ed04a1a0.png" alt="Lexy Goode (owner of The Goode Life UK) holding a quizzical-looking cat">Lexy Goode ﻿V-L: Can you share any advice or insights for those interested in starting their own animal sanctuaries or getting involved in animal rescue work? LG: I would say start small, play to your strengths, and start with an animal you had experience with growing up, such as cats, dogs, or rabbits.&nbsp; For us, when we rescued chickens six years ago, we learnt so much in such a short period of time. Research so you know what to do in an emergency to patch up the little things and find a good vet.&nbsp; Quality over quantity is so important. I could have more cats here, but I would be worsening the quality of life of those already here.&nbsp; Please take the animals that no one wants. It is easy to rehome cute kittens, but it’s much harder with animals who are older or with disabilities, so try to look past that. Think about what you can give the animal, not what the animal can give you.&nbsp; Please adopt rather than buy. There are so many animals out there who need a home. V-L: How has veganism impacted the way you run your sanctuary? LG: We believe, like any vegans, not to differentiate between species. People are used to companion animals like dogs and cats, but we would not differentiate.&nbsp; If we had the space, we would take in animals on a needs basis, rather than a species basis, whether they’re a donkey, sheep, pig, rabbit, etc. If I have the set up and can offer the animal the best quality of life, I will take it in. It makes no difference to me.&nbsp; Being vegan for eight years opens your heart to see other species more compassionately than you would have before. It’s about what you can do for the animal, not the other way around.&nbsp; V-L: How can people best support you and your work at the sanctuary? LG: The best way is through a monthly donation. Monthly donations support us with budgeting for food and medical bills. Donating is welcome by PayPal or bank transfer; you can sponsor an animal or involve your business in a corporate sponsorship.&nbsp; If you sponsor one of the animals, you get a personalised video from them every month and updates on them. If you are not on Facebook or Instagram, we can write emails from your animal with photos.&nbsp; We have <a href="https://veganfried.co/collections/the-goode-life-uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Christmas cards, calendars and jumpers</a> that you can find through the merchandise section of our website, which are supplied by a company called Vegan Fried.&nbsp; We want to move and grow, so we are looking for a larger space in North Yorkshire that is suitable for animals.&nbsp; Thank you for speaking to us and for the amazing work you do.&nbsp; Find out more about The Goode Life UK and support in any way you can by visiting their <a href="https://www.thegoodelifeuk.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">website</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoodelifeuk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);"> </a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoodelifeuk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodeLifeUK/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Facebook</a>. Check out more brilliant work other <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/animal-sanctuaries-to-support-across-the-uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">sanctuaries in the UK</a><a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/animal-sanctuaries-to-support-across-the-uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> </a>are doing to save animals, and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-sanctuaries-affirm-a-vegan-life" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">how sanctuaries affirm a vegan life</a>.

Lexy Goode (owner of The Goode Life UK) smiling and holding a cat

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Saving vulnerable animals: The Goode Life UK story


When we first stepped foot in Medellín, Colombia, for our 72-hour adventure, we did have reservations about our ability to enjoy the city's food as a vegan traveller, Colombia isn't known for its cuisine, unlike many other countries in its region, nor is it known for a vibrant vegan scene.&nbsp; Were we going to struggle to find plant-based options? Were we going to miss out on eating out, only to sit with a bowl of chips or a salad? Luckily, our worries were completely unnecessary.&nbsp; Medellín surprised us in every possible way by not only offering incredible plant-centric cuisines, a host of incredible adventures, and a rich tapestry of culture but also demonstrating that Colombia's vegan community is rapidly growing.&nbsp; <h2>Our journey begins: Day one</h2>We started by visiting Communa 13, once one of the most dangerous districts in Colombia, known to some as the murder capital; however, it’s now a vibrant hub for art and culture.&nbsp; The streets are covered in murals showing stories of transformation and resilience; being so beautifully illustrated, the murals provide a friendly and lively atmosphere. We joined a local walking tour to learn about the neighbourhood’s troubled history. We learnt that no matter how dire the situation, there’s always hope that it can be improved and revived. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1697363702/Image_1_74_pic_2_fb414432fb.png" alt="Street art mural in Communa 13 in Medellín, Colombia">Callum Weir Before heading to grab a bite to eat, we found ourselves on a concrete football pitch surrounded by a group of exceptionally talented six- to nine-year-olds, whose skills left us in awe. This was more than just a game for them, this was a way of life.&nbsp; This little community they have created revolves around their love for football. Playing against these children was a very humbling experience as they seemed undefeatable, effortlessly weaving the ball with joy. We did admit defeat before heading to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lentejaexpress/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Lenteja Express</a> in the district of Poblado.&nbsp; The vegan ceviche was fresh and zesty. The mushroom-based dish was delightful and a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious cruelty-free twist on ceviche (formally a traditional seafood dish). <h2>Our explorations continue: Day two</h2>On our second day in Medellín, we found ourselves immersed in the El Poblado district, an area pulsating with both energy and culture.&nbsp; Our day began with a visit to Parque Lleras, an iconic square that encapsulates the essence of this lively neighbourhood offering quaint and colourful cafés. We treated ourselves to oat milk lattes to start our day of exploring the captivating art installations, until our curiosity led us to a bustling local market, a gold mine full of fresh produce that exceeded any of our expectations, boasting an incredible variety of fruits and vegetables some of which were entirely new to us.&nbsp; The Colombians were more than eager to introduce us to this colourful array of food, allowing us to sample exotic fruits before buying, such as starfruit which stood out with its remarkable blend of sweetness and tanginess, much like sour candy. After, our appetites led us to a little eatery <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vegan.and_veggie/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Vegan &amp; Veggie</a>, a name that was short and sweet but did what it said on the tin, offering an array of plant-based delights, including a beautifully crafted buddha bowl brimming with the freshest vegetables, alongside tacos, which were nothing short of a taste explosion that put anything we could have created to shame. Around the corner was <a href="https://instagram.com/gringotuesdays?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Gringo Tuesdays</a>, a concept that brings travellers and locals together for a unique night in the form of a language and culture exchange. Every Tuesday, people from all walks of life sit down together and let down their cultural barriers, allowing each other to learn from one another, build on their language skills, and immerse themselves in the vibrant Colombian scene. A great place to create memories and friendships while ending the night with music and dance with the warm hospitality that Colombia provides. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1697363817/Image_2_10_pic_3_157e1837cd.png" alt="Gringo Tuesdays sign, an event to bring people together in Medellín, Colombia">Callum Weir <h2>Our travels come to a close: Day three</h2>Our third day unfolded as we took a stroll through nature with a visit to the botanical gardens. The diverse plant life and soothing ambience was perfect for some mid-morning yoga, stretching our bodies while taking a break from the bustling city, and swapping the commotion of the busy streets with the symphony of birds singing and the soothing sounds of the flowing water.&nbsp; From there we took a cable car to Arvi Park, which overlooked the breathtaking views of the Andes, leaving us in awe. We explored the park’s hiking trails and landscapes that connected us to Colombia’s natural beauty. In the evening, we decided to nourish our bodies at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vegstation/?utm_medium=copy_link" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veg Station</a>, a restaurant that offered an authentic taste of Colombia with an abundance of traditional dishes turned plant-based. The feast of arepas, plantain chips, and hearty bean stews took our taste buds on a rollercoaster ride of taste fusions between sweet and savoury, amongst a satisfying mixture of textures. Feeling content we worked the meal off by rollerblading on the city's empty highways. With the roads being closed off to traffic, we glided through, taking in the panoramic views of the city skyline lit up with a variety of different shades and colours with visions of the surrounding mountains that cradled Medellín. It felt like a sensation of freedom and the evening breeze stroked our faces creating an unforgettable memory. Medellín’s not the only city that’s a plant-based paradise, far from it; take a trip to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/fall-in-love-with-the-copenhagen-vegan-scene" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Copenhagen</a>, <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/discovering-the-secrets-of-lisbon-as-a-vegan-tourist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lisbon</a>, or <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-to-eat-vegan-in-barcelona-7-sensational-spots-worth-trying" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Barcelona</a>.

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Exploring Medellín’s plant-based paradise: A jam-packed 72 hours

Pet ownership is a decision that many individuals grapple with, especially when considering their commitment to a vegan lifestyle. While the companionship and joy that pets bring into our lives are undeniable, it's essential for vegans to carefully examine the ethical implications of keeping animals as pets. In this article, we'll explore some of the implications of pet ownership via a vegan lens. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Animals need rescuing</h2>Many domestic animals have been abandoned and need loving homes, with approximately <a href="https://petkeen.com/animal-homelessness-statistics-uk/#3_Approximately_250000_animals_go_to_rescues_every_year" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">250,000 animals</a> going to rescue centres yearly and 1.1 million cats and dogs living on the streets.&nbsp; Pets can be rescued from shelters, streets, or abusive situations and given a loving home where they are cared for and protected. By adopting a pet, vegans can save an animal's life and reduce the demand for breeding and selling animals. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Companionship and appreciation for compassion</h2>Pets can provide companionship, emotional support, and happiness to their human guardians. They can also help reduce stress, loneliness, and depression. <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/having-a-dog-can-help-your-heart--literally" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Studies</a> have shown that having a pet can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and risk of heart disease. Nurturing a pet can reconnect us with the natural world and foster a deeper appreciation for animals' unique qualities, and caring for a pet offers an opportunity to educate others about veganism, animal welfare, and compassionate living.&nbsp; The University of Albany’s study on pets and the correlation with vegetarianism showed that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bustle.com/p/vegetarianism-pet-ownership-are-related-in-this-surprising-way-according-to-a-new-study-8859922" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">having a pet</a> increases humans' empathy toward animals. Through intimate experiences with pets, many people become&nbsp;vegetarian or vegan, as they can draw parallels between their beloved pets and the farmed animals they previously consumed. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1697362783/Image_1_73_pic_2_c9f087938c.png" alt="Woman in white long sleeve top petting a white and orange cat on a bed">cottonbro studio/Pexels <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Pet diets&nbsp;</h2>Some pets can be fed a vegan diet if it is nutritionally balanced and appropriate for their species. According to some <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/oct/20/vegan-pet-food-as-healthy-for-cats-and-dogs-as-meat-says-veterinary-professor" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">research</a>, a vegan diet may be fine for dogs; however, it is important to note that plant-based meals still need added nutrients and should be carefully formulated with additional synthetic nutrients. There is insufficient evidence to prove that cats can have a vegan diet, as they are <a href="https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/cat/food-and-weight/can-cats-be-vegan" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">obligate carnivores</a>. There are many vegan pet food brands available on the market, as well as homemade recipes that can meet the dietary needs of pets. Some vegans argue that feeding their pets a vegan diet is more ethical than animal products from factory farms and slaughterhouses.&nbsp; There are also herbivorous pets (including rabbits, guinea pigs, and tortoises) that will be happy just eating plants. However, it is important to note that each animal has its own specific dietary needs, and it is important to do further research before choosing to get any of these pets.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Exotic ‘pets’</h2>There are growing concerns about people keeping <a href="https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/other/concerns" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">exotic pets</a> as they have specific needs and challenges and shouldn’t be kept in household environments or cages, especially when they are not native to the UK. Unfortunately, the last two decades have seen a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/dec/05/meet-the-exotic-pet-detectives-is-there-a-skunk-iguana-or-wild-cat-in-your-street" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">60% increase</a> in exotic pets in the UK, according to the wildlife charity <a href="https://www.bornfree.org.uk/take-action" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Born Free Foundation</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Exotic pets are not domesticated and are plucked from their natural environment and sold to whoever may desire them. These include birds, tropical fish, reptiles, and amphibians. These creatures are kept in small habitats and given an artificial environment. While most would agree that keeping exotic animals such as birds and reptiles in small cages is not okay, many need rehoming, so if abandoned creatures that cannot be released back into the wild need rescuing, then it would make sense to adopt them and provide a safe home.&nbsp; Unfortunately, releasing exotic pets into the wild is generally not a good solution. Non-native species may not survive in our countryside and are illegal to release or allow to escape. These animals could also be an invasive species risk to our native wildlife.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Exploitation</h2>Domestic pets are animals bred and manipulated by humans for their own purposes. Some vegans argue that keeping pets is a form of exploitation and oppression that violates the rights and autonomy of animals. Although canines were the earliest domesticated animals, whereby selective breeding started somewhere “between 15,000 and 30,000 years ago”, ethicists argue that the human-dog relationship constitutes a <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.584037/full" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">moral dilemma</a>, as the relationship oscillates between two extremes, ‘pampered’ and ‘enslaved’.&nbsp; Pets depend on their human guardians for food and water, shelter and medical care. They have no choice or control over their lives. Some vegans contend that keeping pets is a form of slavery and domination that deprives animals of their dignity and freedom. Pets have their own needs, preferences, and instincts, which might conflict with human control over their lives. Veganism strives to honour animals' autonomy and natural behaviours. Pets may suffer from health problems, injuries, or diseases caused or aggravated by unnatural living conditions. They may also face abuse, neglect, abandonment, or euthanasia. Some vegans claim that keeping pets is a source of harm and suffering for animals that outweigh any benefits they may receive. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1697362915/Image_2_9_pic_3_6de670e71f.png" alt="Man in red shirt hugging his happy golden retriever ">Eric Ward/Unsplash <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Unscrupulous and unnecessary breeding&nbsp;</h2>The breeding of pets contributes to overpopulation and perpetuates a cycle of unnecessary suffering, particularly if homes are not readily available. Additionally, unscrupulous breeders care about profits and not the care of the animals. Breeders will even harm animals to make them more appealing. For example, there have been reports of breeders following social media trends and <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-59491179" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">mutilating dogs</a> by cutting their ears for cosmetic purposes.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Ecological concerns</h2>Pet ownership can have a significant environmental footprint, from the resources required to feed and care for them to the waste they produce. This may conflict with the eco-conscious values of many vegans.&nbsp; Some vegans assert that keeping pets is a threat to biodiversity and ecology that harms both animals and humans as pets may harm other animals, either directly or indirectly, by hunting, killing, or competing with them for resources. Pet ownership can be seen as destructive consumerism, as pets can “emit twice the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/opinion/pets-uk-ownership-cats-dogs-carbon-environmental-impact-b1249610.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">carbon emissions</a><a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/opinion/pets-uk-ownership-cats-dogs-carbon-environmental-impact-b1249610.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">&nbsp;</a>of our homes’&nbsp;<a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/topic/electricity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">electricity</a>&nbsp;and kill up to 200 million wild prey in the UK annually”. There are ways to be an eco-friendlier pet owner. <a href="https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/actions/how-be-eco-friendly-pet-owner" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Wildlife Trusts</a> recommends taking small steps, such as walking to a nearby park instead of driving to the dog park or putting a bell on your cat’s collar, decreasing the chances of them catching wildlife.&nbsp; Many arguments exist for and against having pets from a vegan perspective. There is no definitive answer or consensus on this issue, as vegans may have different opinions, values, and experiences. It is also worth reiterating that many animals need loving homes as they remain in shelters, and to help decrease the market for breeders, most will agree, it is better to rescue animals rather than purchase pets. Adopting animals from shelters or rescue organisations can save lives.&nbsp; Find out how animal <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/how-sanctuaries-affirm-a-vegan-life" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">sanctuaries</a> save animals while affirming the importance of veganism, and find out how we can help vegan students <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-education-how-to-help-vegan-students-thrive-at-school" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">thrive at school</a>.

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Furry friends in a vegan world: Ethical dilemmas of pet ownership

Veganism is the fastest growing lifestyle movement in the UK and for good reason. People are becoming more aware of the welfare of animals and are starting to make a change in their eating habits. A gap in the market has appeared and chain restaurants and independent vegan businesses are filling it with delicious like-for-like mock meat and dairy-free options. <h2>Vegan-friendly restaurants</h2>In 2021 <a href="https://www.finder.com/uk/where-to-be-vegan#:~:text=Of%20the%20270%20UK%20cities,restaurants%20with%20the%20largest%20populations." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Finder’s research</a> found that there were 6,426 UK restaurants with vegan options or vegetarian options. Sometimes, out of convenience or if dining with non-vegans, a chain restaurant can be the only way to enjoy a dining experience together. Popular food establishments are developing their menus to cater for vegans.&nbsp; Have you tried Pizza Express’ Vegan American Hot, which uses smoky jackfruit ‘pepperoni’? Visited Wagamama who flaunt their 50% plant-based Asian cuisine? YO! Sushi with their 26 satisfying plates, making up nearly a third of their menu? Or, most recently, McDonald’s has a Double McPlant burger using Beyond Meat. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1696577184/Image_1_72_pic_2_7d04e2d9ff.png" alt="Pizza Express Vegan American Hot pizza">Pizza Express <h2>Making a difference</h2>Convenient vegan options can entice individuals to tuck into their favourite dish, but veganised, within comfortable familiar surroundings. As long as the meals available are on par with the rest of the menu, it is a reason to revisit. The competition is stronger than ever, so a bland, measly mushroom or butternut squash, isn’t going to cut it. We hope that the disappointment on family and business outings - knowing that salads or french fries would be the only offerings - is a thing of the past. <h2>If it weren’t for vegan eateries, would this be happening?</h2>Of course, we admire every independent vegan eatery out there, big or small, widening our eyes to a full vegan menu, being spoiled for choice with a fulfilling dining experience: handmade seitan, innovative vegetable recipe twists, and tofu scramble alongside mouth-watering meat-like feasts.&nbsp; This makes it possible to relish all of the goodness and taste sensations that meat-free meals have to offer. It is partly because of these businesses that chain restaurants may need to expand their menus. In 2022, <a href="https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/vegan-food-orders-spike-deliveroo-22665247" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Deliveroo reported</a> that more restaurants than ever - a whopping 15,000 across the UK - had introduced plant-based menus and dishes to their regular offering. Of course, you don’t need to go to chains to eat top-notch vegan grub. Check out our vegan travel guides for <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/making-the-most-of-liverpool-as-a-vegan-tourist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Liverpool</a>, <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/edinburgh-vegan-guide-where-to-eat-and-what-to-see-in-a-weekend" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Edinburgh</a>, and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/best-way-to-spend-72-hours-as-a-vegan-in-manchester" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Manchester</a> which have a whole host of independent vegan options.

Individuals eating at Wagamama inside a food court 

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How are chain restaurants responding to the rise in veganism?

When it comes to exploring vibrant vegan scenes, we've got a nose for it. While our UK base keeps us rooted in our local plant-based gems, we can't help but be drawn to Barcelona's thriving vegan food culture. It's no secret these days that this city is a vegan playground with an insane amount of vegan spots - we have rounded up some of our favourites below. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Roots &amp; Rolls&nbsp;</h2>This remarkable vegan restaurant is a testament to the infinite possibilities of plant-based cuisine. The star of the show at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rootsandrolls/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Roots &amp; Rolls</a> is undoubtedly their plant-based sushi. But don't expect your typical rolls here; they've redefined sushi with unique combinations that cater to vegans, vegetarians, and veggie enthusiasts alike. Indulge in their nigiris filled with marinated king oyster mushroom, chimichurri, and black rice or plum tomato with sun-dried tomato, aioli, and black quinoa rice. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Vegan Junk Food Bar&nbsp;</h2>The <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veganjunkfoodbar.spain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">VJFB</a> journey began in 2017 in Amsterdam, with the aim of creating a place where everyone could relish vegan junk food together. Its innovative take on plant-based indulgence quickly caught the world's attention, earning VJFB two prestigious awards at the Vegan Awards within just one year. They are serving up some burgers and fries that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious. Our personal favourites would have to be the kapsalon french fries and the VJFB Daddy hamburger (no daddies harmed in the making of this burger). <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1696576384/Image_1_71_pic_2_eccf348dc3.png" alt="Three multicoloured vegan burgers with a variety of fillings from Vegan Junk Food Bar"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/veganjunkfoodbar.spain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">VJFB</a> <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Veggie Garden</h2><a href="https://instagram.com/veggiegardengroup?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Veggie Garden</a> is nestled in the heart of Barcelona. This all-vegan restaurant is a true delight for any plant-based traveller. From mouthwatering burgers to international delights, the cosy eatery offers a diverse menu along with a full juice bar to grab a drink on your way out. Noteworthy mentions include the Maxi Wrap with guacamole and the veggie momos. For the adventurous and those seeking a bit of everything, the Nepali Luxury Thali platter offers a diverse selection of flavours in one delightful ensemble. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Macrobiotic Zen</h2>This buffet-style vegan paradise beckons travellers and locals alike, and has been a part of the city's fabric since 1974. Since then, <a href="https://instagram.com/macrobioticzen_barcelona?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Macrobiotic Zen</a> is the go-to destination for anyone craving a fresh and healthy vegan lunch. Their dishes are not only homemade, but also prepared on the same day. For less than 14 euros you get a first dish, second dish, a dessert and drink. And fair warning, these portions are huge, so be prepared to ask for a doggy bag. (Pro tip: go here for lunch and H10 Cubik Hotel after to catch the sunset.)&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Veganashi&nbsp;</h2>The philosophy at <a href="https://instagram.com/veganashi.bcn?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veganashi</a> is simple: craft delicious vegan food that not only delights your taste buds but also surprises you with the innovative fusion of Asian and Japanese cuisine. From unique sushi rolls to ceviche, yakisoba noodles, sushirritos, and more, each dish is a symphony of flavours, textures, and colours. Try their new futomaki with brown rice, miso aubergine, hakusai cabbage, coriander and a topping of carrot tartare with mayonnaise and hijiki seaweed. Talk about sushi magic! <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1696576489/Image_2_8_pic_3_c93e7a0e3e.png" alt="Image 2 (8) pic 3.PNG">Jessie Childs <h2 class="ql-align-justify">﻿Rasoterra</h2>If you're all about sustainable dining, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rasoterrabcn/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rasoterra</a> is your spot. With a strong focus on organic ingredients, they craft seasonal dishes that are as eco-friendly as they are delectable. Opt for their daily menu that changes monthly with exciting options such as their ajoblanco soup with almonds and nectarines, marinated watermelon tacos, or their orecchiette with pesto. They have an array of options that'll satisfy even the pickiest palate. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">Cafe Equilibrium&nbsp;</h2>Craving an all-vegan brunch spot? We've got you covered! <a href="https://instagram.com/equilibrivmcafe?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Cafe Equilibrium</a> is the perfect place to go after some sightseeing at the Sagrada Familia. This buzzing café serves up brunch, lunch, smoothies and matcha every day until 4 pm. Go savoury with a full English breakfast, or go sweet with the fresh fruit and berry compote pancakes. And since this is an all-vegan café, you don't have to worry about anyone spiking your latte-to-go with dairy milk! Barcelona is not the only vegan-friendly location, check out these top <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/top-vegan-city-in-every-continent-from-cape-town-to-taipei-city" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan cities</a> in every continent, and we share tips on <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-travel-tips-plan-ahead-for-your-perfect-vegan-holiday" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">travelling as a vegan</a>.

Vegan sushi nigiris from Roots & Rolls in Barcelona, Spain 

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How to eat vegan in Barcelona: 7 sensational spots worth trying


Are you looking for a great way to teach your children about caring for animals, themselves and the planet? With an abundance of vegan books available in bookshops, libraries and online, how can we choose the best vegan books for kids? Our selection of vegan children's books contain a wealth of information, charming stories and rhymes to inspire children and teach them about compassion and empathy in a child-friendly way. <h2>The Vegan Dinosaur&nbsp;</h2>Ollie the Oviraptor goes on a journey from egg thief to vegan activist in this inspiring book by Toni McAree and Stephanie Hope. When Ollie realises that eggs contain dinosaur babies, he decides to go vegan. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vegan-Dinosaur-powerful-childrens-super/dp/B09MDQTP3R/ref=asc_df_B09MDQTP3R/?tag=googshopuk-21&amp;linkCode=df0&amp;hvadid=535918752477&amp;hvpos=&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=15454400810636144522&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hvqmt=&amp;hvdev=m&amp;hvdvcmdl=&amp;hvlocint=&amp;hvlocphy=1007043&amp;hvtargid=pla-1604949497176&amp;psc=1&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Vegan Dinosaur</a> is the perfect vegan children's book to get kids thinking about empathy and where food comes from. <h2>V is for Vegan&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/V-Vegan-Abcs-Being-Kind/dp/1583946497" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">V is for Vegan: The ABCs of Being Kind</a> addresses a variety of subjects such as being kind to all animals, healthy eating and sustainability. The fun rhymes and illustrations by Ruby Roth make learning about the major vegan food groups, compassion and ethical living child-friendly and exciting. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1696014984/Image_1_70_pic_2_3af256f083.png" alt="Young girl sitting crossed-legged on a wooden table reading a book in front of a window">Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels <h2>The Help Yourself Cookbook For Kids</h2>Ruby Roth has written the ideal vegan book to introduce toddlers and children to different vegan foods and basic food preparation. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Help-Yourself-Cookbook-Kids-Plant-Based/dp/1449471870/ref=asc_df_1449471870/?tag=googshopuk-21&amp;linkCode=df0&amp;hvadid=310873579424&amp;hvpos=&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=15454400810636144522&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hvqmt=&amp;hvdev=m&amp;hvdvcmdl=&amp;hvlocint=&amp;hvlocphy=1007043&amp;hvtargid=pla-425309707088&amp;psc=1&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Help Yourself Cookbook For Kids</a> is full of ideas for drinks, big meals, small meals, sauces and desserts that can be prepared with or without the help of a grown-up. Promoting healthy eating and inspiring independence in children has never been easier! <h2>Vivi The Supervegan</h2><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vivi-Supervegan-Childrens-Encouraging-Compassion/dp/191610360X/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?adgrpid=126344505599&amp;hvadid=545210552574&amp;hvdev=m&amp;hvlocphy=1007043&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvrand=592504792132278765&amp;hvtargid=kwd-1209093622300&amp;hydadcr=17322_1802376&amp;keywords=vivi+the+super+vegan&amp;qid=1689188560&amp;sr=8-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Vivi The Supervegan</a> by Tina Newman is a beautifully illustrated book that teaches children that kindness is their superpower! Vivi is the perfect plant-powered superhero to make children feel confident about their vegan lifestyle. (Newman has also created other vegan adventures, including <a href="https://www.vivithesupervegan.co.uk/store/p9/veganchildrensbook.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vivi and the Planet Protector</a><a href="https://www.vivithesupervegan.co.uk/store/p9/veganchildrensbook.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</a>) <h2>We All Love</h2><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/069298786X/ref=cm_cr_othr_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8#cm_cr_carousel_images_section" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">We All Love</a> by Julie Hausen is a wonderful selection for toddlers from our list of vegan kids' books. Its short text makes it easy to read and understand. It explores the earliest stages of empathy and shows children the similarities that animals and humans have, and the importance of treating animals with respect and kindness. If you have enjoyed this list of vegan children's books and you're looking for more information on vegan parenting, check out these <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-parenting-helpful-tools-for-raising-vegan-children" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">helpful tools for raising vegan children</a>. For more on vegan literature, we interview award-winning writer <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/ray-star-on-writing-a-magical-best-selling-vegan-fiction-trilogy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Ray Star</a>.﻿

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How to introduce kids to veganism: Our top vegan children's books

The future of food production is in space. As farming crops on land becomes more challenging with our changing climate causing droughts and floods, scientists are looking upwards for the future of food.&nbsp; If growing food in space, the food would be plant-based because the conditions in space would not be sufficient to have grazing livestock, let alone address the number of plants it would take to sustain these animals. The latter highlights this earthly ignorance of how <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/soy#:~:text=More%20than%20three-quarters%20(77,,%20edamame%20beans,%20and%20tempeh." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">77% of soy is fed to livestock</a><a href="https://ourworldindata.org/soy#:~:text=More%20than%20three-quarters%20(77,,%20edamame%20beans,%20and%20tempeh." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">,</a> with just 7% used directly for human food products. The future of plant-based-in-space therefore points towards a new beginning for plant-based farming. <h2>Plant-based space</h2>Plants are already being grown in space. NASA have created The Vegetable Production System, known as <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/veggie_fact_sheet_508.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veggie</a>, which is a garden that resides in their space station. The Veggie garden is around the size of a small suitcase and can hold around six plants. They are grown in a ‘pillow’ filled with a clay-based growth media and fertiliser. The ‘pillows’ help distribute water, nutrients, and air in a healthy balance around the roots.&nbsp; Plants use light to guide growth in the absence of gravity. A bank of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) above the plants produces a spectrum of light enabling the plant to grow.&nbsp; Veggie has grown a selection of plants, including Chinese cabbage, Mizuna mustard, red Russian kale and zinnia flowers.&nbsp; However, although providing foundations for the future of growing plants in space, expansion is needed to create more plants to prepare for future generations. As Earth becomes less habitable, should we look towards another planet for the future of our food?&nbsp; <h2>Mars and spacey salads&nbsp;</h2>Most planets cannot sustain life, mainly due to their temperature. Venus, for example, can get as hot as 471℃ and has a dense atmosphere at a pressure that is 91 times the pressure found at sea level on Earth. Mercury’s surface temperatures can reach a scorching 450℃. Mars, however, although with fluctuating temperatures between 20 degrees Celsius and -153 degrees Celsius, proposes a more promising environment for growing plants. With its soil thought to be rich in iron, it makes it ideal for growing leafy green vegetables such as lettuce and kale. Mars’s atmosphere is mainly carbon dioxide, which plants need to turn into oxygen.&nbsp; Plants on Mars would require less water, due to its gravity (which is approximately 38% that of Earth’s), and because the soil can hold more water than on Earth it would drain slower into the soil. However, certain conditions would make it difficult to grow plants on Mars. Although next to Earth, its distance from the sun, at around 50 million miles, makes it much colder. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1696014312/Image_1_69_pic_2_2faa5add5d.png" alt=" Martian-esque landscape with glass dome">Dmitry Grachyov/Unsplash <h2>Looking further afield… or a planet</h2>Elon Musk has acknowledged the practicalities of growing food in space and that keeping livestock would interfere with that. He states how he wants to give people ‘free choice’, interestingly, but not unsurprisingly, failing to acknowledge the choice of the animals not to be killed. Encouragingly, however, Musk also addresses some of the issues (although ignoring the ethics) of keeping animals in space, thus leaning towards a plant-based future in outer space.&nbsp; Musk <a href="https://www.livekindly.com/elon-musk-predicts-vegan-colonies-will-be-on-mars-in-7-10-years/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">states</a>, "I'm a big fan of free choice for any future Martian colony. That said, it is likely that early Mars colonists would have a mostly vegetable diet, because of the energy and space needed to raise farm animals." The president of PETA, Ingrid Newkirk, illuminates the issues present with animal agriculture and its damaging effects on the environment: "If&nbsp;Elon Musk's vision of a colony on Mars&nbsp;comes true, the last thing those people will need is the disease and destruction that results from eating animals, whether you're settling into your new Martian home or staying here on Earth, going vegan is the best way to ensure that you'll be able to enjoy the world around you for as long as possible."&nbsp; The disease and destruction inherent to agricultural farming is a key factor in ensuring that cultivating on Mars is done correctly - with a plant-based approach. After all, <a href="https://karger.com/mip/article/30/1-6/2/196843/The-Causal-Relationship-between-Eating-Animals-and" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">some pandemics on Earth appear to have been caused by eating animals</a>, so why not start afresh and create a plant-based planet? Until we’re all on Mars, we’ll be obsessing about what Earth’s restaurants have to offer. Check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/jack-the-falafel-delicious-lunch-spot-in-bristol-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Jack the Falafel: a delicious lunch spot in Bristol</a>, and learn more about animal agriculture <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/the-environmental-impact-of-animal-agriculture" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a>.

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Veganism on Mars: Cultivating plant-based diets in outer space?


London has no shortage of vegan restaurants and cafes, but they are by no means evenly dispersed. East London is a hotbed for plant-based eateries, but it is definitely worth venturing to other parts of the city where the pickings are less abundant. And we promise, you won’t be disappointed.&nbsp; <h2>Go west, life is peaceful there&nbsp;</h2>As clearly stated by the popular <a href="https://www.streetdirectory.com/lyricadvisor/song/fpculw/go_west/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Village People song</a>, there is a lot to be said (and sung) about heading west. It’s peaceful, it’s open, and you’ll do just fine. Actually, if you head to our top picks of vegan eateries in West London, you’ll do more than just fine.&nbsp; <h2>Revival Cafe</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/revivalcafelondon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Revival Cafe</a> is a plant-based eatery close to South Ealing underground station. Once the bakery of their parents, this London vegan coffee shop is now run by compassionate siblings. The relaxed and welcoming space has been created with a focus on sustainability and a desire to make a positive change. Open early in the morning, they serve the usual coffees and specialty lattes like turmeric and matcha. With a selection of sandwiches and pasties, there is no shortage of options for that savoury fix. However, it is their sweet treats you should not miss. Cookies, loaves, croissants, cheesecakes, and more. Buy every single one, twice. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1695381842/Image_1_68_pic_2_af2279aad3.png" alt=" Pastry, coffee and desert from Revival Cafe, West London"><a href="https://scontent-lhr8-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/250209141_115182194282780_5791298902826643229_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=5614bc&amp;_nc_ohc=3cBR67CTQuUAX9VzyxW&amp;_nc_ht=scontent-lhr8-1.xx&amp;oh=00_AfC7dB1E7CBqaI11_v9sbpcgarAOqzOIBA2YdcgQiJgcFg&amp;oe=64F5A35E" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Mark</a> Flood <h2>The Humble Veg</h2>A few blocks up from Northfield station is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thehumblevegealing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Humble Veg</a>. Jacquie is the owner and chef at this small but perfectly formed takeaway. Inspired to create tasty, healthy, homecooked dishes, the coconut-based lentil love or beans &amp; green curry are guaranteed to satisfy. With the additional options of sandwiches, burritos and nachos, there is enough variety to return again and again. They also feature a selection of cakes from local bakers, but their rocky road is a chunky delight you won’t regret investing in. A chocolate biscuity heaven. <h2>Benji’s Buns</h2>Lastly, it is the newest plant-based kid on the block, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/benjis_buns/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Benji's Buns</a>. After a stint at the local food market this London vegan bakery opened its first store in Ealing Broadway in 2022. Having just opened at a second location in Notting Hill, this bun empire is starting to build. Specialising in dreamy freshly baked warm and gooey cinnamon buns, we see a bright, and sweet, future. We suggest you ease yourself in with the standard glazed bun before expanding your horizons and opting for something a little more extravagant. Options can vary but with flavours like chocolate, Lotus Biscoff, orange marmalade or blueberry, these super indulgent treats will leave you beyond satiated. They also offer additional treats like brownies and cookie sandwiches, so there is something to satisfy those non-bun cravings too. Get there as soon as you can.&nbsp; For more London vegan restaurant highlights, you should check out what we think of the long-standing <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/mildreds-soho-where-taste-and-style-converge" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mildreds</a>, the more recent, <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/v-izza-london-s-hidden-gem-for-vegan-pizza" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">V-izza</a>, or Scandinavian-inspired <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/dauns-superb-scandinavian-inspired-vegan-cafe-bar-and-deli" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dauns</a>.

West London may not be off the beaten track if looking for an area with lots of vegan eatery choices but any extra effort will be worth it. We promise!

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Go West: London vegan eateries a little off the beaten track

Building covered with vibrant green foliage

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Could you live in a banana cocoon? Vegan sustainable architecture

Most V-Land UK readers are Brits, and it’s safe to say we have it made on this little island when it comes to vegan-friendly cities. From London and Brighton to Manchester and Edinburgh, we are spoilt for choice with plant-based metropolises. London is often described as the most vegan-friendly city in Europe due to the number of restaurants alone. But what about the vegan Brits travelling abroad, what are some other cities that make the perfect getaway for those on a plant-based diet? We explore the city with the most vegan restaurants in each continent (except Antarctica!) around the world and what makes them unique. <h2>New York</h2>The Big Apple has such a cultural significance, especially across the Western world. It’s natural for those all over the globe to want to visit this exciting concrete jungle at least once. Vegans should be no exception to this, as New York is home to over 1,400 vegan restaurants or places offering a wide variety of vegan dishes. Stop almost anywhere in Manhattan or Brooklyn and you’ll be just feet away from a delicious vegan meal.&nbsp; <h2>São Paulo</h2>This Brazilian metropolis, home to over 12 million people, has embraced plant-based eating, and offers an impressive array of vegan restaurants, cafés, and options in its food markets.&nbsp; From delectable traditional <a href="https://www.curiouscuisiniere.com/feijoada-brazilian-black-bean-stew/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">feijoada</a> made with plant-based ingredients to enticing tropical fruit-based desserts, São Paulo's vegan options are sure to impress. Additionally, the city hosts numerous vegan festivals and events, promoting sustainable living and ethical eating practices. Beyond the culinary delights, São Paulo's bustling culture, friendly locals, and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal destination for vegan tourists seeking an unforgettable travel experience. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1694949031/Image_1_11_450c4629bc.png" alt="São Paulo city skyscape">Joao Tzanno/Unsplash <h2>Taipei City</h2>The capital of Taiwan, it’s estimated that over 10% of Taipei’s residents don’t eat meat. These meat-free residents and the incredible cuisine Taiwan has to offer makes for the perfect vegan getaway. Vegan travellers can enjoy an incredible city break knowing they will certainly be catered for and just moments from Taiwan’s stunning rural side. <h2>Melbourne</h2>Often described as the coffee capital of the world, with its high number of cafés and coffee-lovers, did you know that Melbourne was also a great spot for anyone on a plant-based diet? A truly multicultural city, Melbourne is known for its incredible restaurants, with a great number of them being solely dedicated to servicing plant-based dishes. The city has been described as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world by <a href="https://www.happycow.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Happy Cow</a>, making it the perfect stop for any vegan who finds themselves Down Under. <h2>Cape Town</h2>South Africans are known for being meat lovers. From a family braai to their beloved biltong, they have a national passion for animal products. It may surprise then, that Cape Town is one of the best vegan cities worldwide.&nbsp; Cape Town attracts tourists from all over. The coastal capital is known for its stunning beaches and incredible restaurants. Many of these restaurants happen to be either vegan-friendly or completely plant-based. Many countries and cultures across the globe are embracing plant-based eating and, while vegan food can be found anywhere, it’s fantastic to find these vegan-friendly travel hotspots all over. For more pieces about veganism around the world, take a look at our <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/category/travel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">travel</a> section.

Bird’s eye view of Cape Town, South Africa

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Top vegan city in every continent: From Cape Town to Taipei City

With plant-based milk seeing a massive rise in popularity and still growing, it’s plain to see that even non-vegans are gravitating to milk alternatives for their morning brew. The United Kingdom is the <a href="https://www.statista.com/topics/10985/plant-based-milk-and-dairy-alternatives-in-the-uk/#topicOverview" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">second largest market in Europe</a> and home-grown milks further encourage consumers' need for sustainability. <h2>Scottish and proud</h2>East of Edinburgh is a small company called <a href="https://instagram.com/broseoats?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Brose</a>, which produce an oat drink using locally produced oats. Scottish oats, in our humble opinion, make the tastiest porridge to kickstart your day. We were kindly gifted four glass bottles, triggering happy memories of the clinking from the milkman in the morning - two of their Original Style, and two Barista Style. As coffee drinkers who verge on addiction, the Barista Style excites us the most - but we were prepared to drink all the bottles dry. <h2>Tasting the difference</h2>As soon as we received the delivery, breakfast was set, and we poured the Original Style onto the dry cereal. Although not too thick, it coated the cereal and fruit beautifully. Taking a cheeky sip from the bottle, it tasted rich, full of flavour from the oats, with a hit of sweetness that surprised us as the drink contains no added sugar.&nbsp; It was time to try the Barista Style, which looked thicker in the bottle. While warming it, we noticed the creamy, velvety texture, which bonded so deliciously with a couple of espresso shots. It did not disappoint. It wasn't oily and did not separate like some oat milk can. The foam was good, and the kick of sweetness meant there was no need to add any syrup. We can imagine Brose drinks would work beautifully for cake recipes and other sweet treats, and it blended well for a morning protein shake. We can also confirm that it mixes with tea perfectly, the nemesis for many plant-based milks. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1694948822/Image_1_10_996ea4a2ee.png" alt="Someone pouring Brose oat drink onto a bowl of cereals and fruit">Alex Osborne <h2>You need to try it for yourself!</h2>We were so grateful to receive the bottles, and when you are visiting Scotland, there are plenty of cafés that will make you a professional coffee with Brose’s delicious oat drink. For residents, there are many stockists in Edinburgh, Glasgow and other locations in the central belt for you to buy a bottle (or two) and try it for yourself at home.&nbsp; Also, it’s worth remembering that their glass bottles can be returned too, and if returned they will provide a good discount toward your next bottle - we guarantee that you will be wanting more once you have had your first taste! You can find all the information on the <a href="https://www.broseoats.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Brose website</a>. Most of us love oat milk. If you’re feeling more adventurous, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/7-unusual-vegan-milk-alternatives-worth-trying" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">7 unusual vegan milk alternatives worth trying</a>, and how about some creamy <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/h-p-creamy-oat-milk-chocolate-bars" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">H!P chocolate</a> made with oat milk?

Two glass bottles of Brose oat drink on a wooden table with a green background

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Brose: Really floats your oats

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/huwwackman_excel/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Miaer Lloyd</a> - DJ name Huw Wackman - from Cwmbran, Torfaen, thought he had entered his final DJ competition 25 years ago, after coming runner-up multiple times.&nbsp; However, he decided to give it one last shot this year in front of a crowd at Boomtown Festival, where he played the set of his life and was named Technics DMC UK Champion; as a result of his win, he’ll be representing the UK in the World Finals in San Francisco in November.&nbsp; V-Land UK (V-L) Thank you for chatting with us, congratulations on your recent win! What was it like playing in front of that Boomtown crowd and being announced as the champion?&nbsp;Miaer Lloyd (ML): It was an amazing experience. The event was quite intimate, 500 people plus, but that works best for turntablism events. Becoming the DMC UK champion after all these years and at the age of 52 is a great feeling. I had so much support, especially from older DJs, who have commented it has inspired them to continue with their own DJ journey. That’s almost as good as the win itself.&nbsp;V-L: How long ago did you go vegan and what prompted your decision? ML: Been vegan for four years now. Initially, it was for health reasons as I started to cycle a lot. I did see a YouTube documentary called “Dairy is Scary” which triggered my conscience about the horrific treatment of the animals, and it snowballed from there. Took about a year and a half to go fully vegan, food, clothes etc. Wished I’d been more aware sooner.&nbsp;V-L: How are you feeling ahead of the World Finals in San Francisco? Do you already have your set planned? ML: I don’t deviate from my set too much. It’s a winning set and my style is very different from the majority of turntablists in the final. I have two months this time to practice instead of two weeks, which is much better. I may tweak things here and there but it’ll be mostly the same. The UK title was all I really wanted, so San Fran and the Worlds are just a great bonus, and imagine - a half-hundred-year-old DJ wins it! Gotta make a movie, right? <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1694259002/Image_1_66_pic_2_39ca92650c.png" alt="2023 DMC UK DJ Champion award">Miaer Lloyd ﻿V-L: It should definitely be made into a movie! Fingers crossed. Has being vegan helped, hindered, or had a neutral effect on your DJing? ML: I’m healthier than when I wasn’t vegan. Weighed around 15 stone before, and now, with training and fasting, I’m 13 stone. Whilst training for the UK final I had flu and a broken finger so I need a rest before I start the practice for the World Final.&nbsp;V-L: Are you the odd one out in the turntablist scene as a vegan? ML: There aren’t many, I’m guessing, although the great <a href="https://www.instagram.com/djwoodymusic/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">DJ Woody</a> is vegan, and he’s a great person and an incredible DJ talent. Two is better than none!&nbsp;V-L: What drew you into DJing and more specifically turntablism/scratching? And what has kept your passion going for over three decades?&nbsp;ML: Hip-hop hit Wales in the ’80s and I went through most of hip-hop's elements: breakin’, graff, and rap, until I found DJing. I had a solid ten years battling between DMC and Vestax DJ comps, but just ran out of steam. Takes a lot of practice and imagination coming back each year to compete.&nbsp;This year I thought I’ll probably never get a chance to enter again, so I took the risk and had fun with my set. I’ve forgotten more than I know in terms of skills, but I’m a showman, and that element is my trademark. I think it struck a chord with the crowd etc. so I’m happy I took part and people enjoyed it.&nbsp;V-L: Do you feel there is, or will be, a resurgence of true turntablism?&nbsp;ML: DMC have just added live DJ finals again as it was all online for a number of years. I think next year's UK Final will be very hard to reach and win as there will be an influx of talented DJs wanting to take part, which raises the talent standard again, so it’s a great thing.&nbsp;It’s a lot easier to win an online title compared to a live final, as you can record your set numerous times until it’s perfect. On the night of a live event, you only get one shot to get it right, and you just can’t beat the crowd interaction. I want to thank <a href="https://instagram.com/dmcdjchamps?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">DMC</a> (Dan, Alex) for the opportunity and will do my best to do the UK proud at the World Final in November. Best of luck with that, we’re sure you’ll do the UK proud; we’ll be rooting for you!&nbsp; You may like to check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-music-legends" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan music legends</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-vegan-artists-using-music-as-a-form-of-animal-rights-activism" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">5 vegan artists using music as a form of animal rights activism</a>.

Vegan DJ Miaer Lloyd holding one of his DJ decks

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Vegan DJ Miaer Lloyd on winning a prestigious UK turntable trophy


Recently we headed to the Bristol Vegan Fayre at <a href="https://instagram.com/document.bristol?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">DOCUMENT</a>, a restored warehouse in St Jude’s that provides a space for artists, workers and events. The two-day event is hosted by <a href="https://instagram.com/vegfestuk?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">VegfestUK</a>, an event management company that combines a Bristolian love of live music with animal and environmental advocacy.&nbsp; The Bristol Vegan Fayre hosted an abundance of grassroots activists, independent sellers, local Bristol DJs, comedians and over 20 vegan food vendors from across the UK. The event was free entry and only a five-minute walk from Bristol city centre. The first stall we came to was <a href="https://instagram.com/gilliefoods?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Gillie Vegan Foods</a> from Manchester, and it was one of our favourites. They specialise in vegan oriental cuisine and use wheat or soya to create mock meats that are packed with protein and seriously delicious. We were quickly sold by their vegan chicken drumsticks, which were layers of mock meat wrapped inside what seemed to be fried rice paper. We also tried their steamed bao, filled with Omni’s plant-based pork strips, fresh lettuce and spring onions. Gillie Vegan Foods were incredibly generous with their portions, and we paid less than £5 for both items.&nbsp;&nbsp; We enjoyed some Biscoff doughnuts from <a href="https://instagram.com/doughnutz_official?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Doughnutz</a>, a Birmingham-based company who sell mostly vegan doughnuts. We simply could not miss their bright pink stall, which had rainbow sprinkles, identical to their strawberry doughnuts! We grabbed several of their sugary ring doughnuts, coated in a rich Biscoff spread and crushed biscuits. It was fantastic to speak to volunteers at the <a href="https://instagram.com/bos_uk?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation</a> and learn about the conservation of the Bornean rainforest. We took part in an interactive experience using VR headsets, and through our lenses, we watched volunteers at ‘jungle school’ care for baby orangutans and teach them how to look after themselves and find food. It felt truly bizarre to be immersed in the thick, green forests of Borneo.&nbsp; We even spotted several vegan delis which had baked goods like cheese straws, onion bhajis, samosas, and vegan Italian classics like arancini and orange polenta cake. It has never been easier to be vegan in Bristol. We were spoiled for choice and even treated ourselves to some live music outside in the sunshine.&nbsp; Bristol Vegan Fayre is great, whether you’re a Bristol local or if you are willing to travel the distance. It is an accessible and community-centred event which brings like-minded people together to learn, share ideas and enjoy a plethora of vegan cuisine. Keep an eye out for VegfestUK London later this year. VegfestUK grew from a small fayre to the UK’s number one indoor vegan exhibition. Check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegfest-the-uk-s-biggest-indoor-vegan-festival" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">our interview with the Founder, Tim Barford</a>.

Promotional graphic for Bristol Vegan Fayre 2023

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From mock meats to VR forests: Bristol Vegan Fayre unveiled

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/veburgeruk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">VeBurger</a> is a fully vegan fast-food restaurant located at Wapping Wharf in Bristol. They pride themselves on creating ‘classics made vegan’, and they certainly live up to this! Offering an extensive menu of vegan chicken and beef burgers, loaded fries, sides, and even desserts, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veburgeruk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">VeBurger</a> has you covered for those junk food cravings, and is the perfect place to bring your vegan foodie friends.&nbsp;&nbsp; With green walls and groovy green lighting, this place is a little vegan heaven. We were greeted by the friendly staff, Dillona and Gwydion, when we walked in and ordered our food at the machine. We settled on the deal for two, which includes any two burgers, loaded fries, two drinks and two desserts. We were also intrigued by the ‘frickles’ (deep-fried pickles) that the team highly recommended and a side of gravy for that all-important chip dip. <h2>Let’s begin with the burgers</h2>We went for the Big Ve with added vegan bacon and the Sweet Chilli Rooster with added jalapenos. Both burgers were epic! The Big Ve lived up to its title; loaded with two meatless patties, vegan cheese, lettuce, pickles, onions, Ve Sauce, and the added bacon in a triple stacked bun, this burger was super delicious, a kind of vegan replica of the Big Mac - but better!&nbsp; The team warned us that it would be messy, so only order this burger if you’re prepared to get messy with the delicious secret sauce, or be fancy and grab a knife and fork - part of their 100% sustainable packaging. This burger was certainly mighty, and you can really taste the freshness and the quality of ingredients.&nbsp; The Sweet Rooster was sweet, spicy, and the added jalapenos provided that extra kick! This burger consists of crispy ‘chicken’ with sweet chilli and fresh lettuce in a sesame bun. Their ‘chicken’ was really realistic, and the coating added a satisfying crispiness.&nbsp; <h2>On to the sides!&nbsp;</h2>The Dirty Ve Fries consisted of a large serving of fries topped with their homemade melted cheese, Ve sauce and crispy onions. The cheese had a beautiful melt and was a perfect match with the sauce, with the crispy onions adding a delicious flavour.&nbsp;The gravy was awesome with a smoky chicken flavour, and we especially loved the deep-fried pickles.&nbsp;&nbsp; <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1693957827/IMG_2531_6fcb63bc0a.png" alt="Dirty Ve Fries from VeBurger in Bristol">Róisín Hamilton <h2>Delicious dessert</h2>For dessert, we had a doughnut and a blueberry muffin, which we took to go and enjoy by the sunny Bristol Harbour. The doughnut was sweet and light and coated with a layer of icing. The fluffy blueberry muffin was the perfect dessert with its gooey jam centre.&nbsp;&nbsp; Our visit to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veburgeruk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">VeBurger</a> was excellent. The restaurant was modern yet cosy, the staff were attentive and polite, and the food was top-notch vegan yumminess! We will most definitely be back to sample their range of burgers and more of those frickin’ delicious frickles! Interested in the other delicious vegan food Bristol has to offer? Check out our visit to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/koocha-mezze-bar-bristol-s-first-fully-vegan-restaurant" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Koocha Mezza Bar</a>, and for pasta lovers, Bristol’s <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/pastan-bristol-s-handmade-plant-based-pasta-specialists-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pastan</a> is pasta-tively amazing!

Vegan burger with vegan cheese and bacon from VeBurger in Bristol

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Satisfy your vegan junk food cravings at Bristol's VeBurger

When considering vegan-friendly travel destinations, France is not the country that comes to mind. However, we were pleasantly surprised during our last trip to the continent: we decided to book a last-minute ticket and go on a quick Biarritz holiday.&nbsp; We got there on the sunniest afternoon with a very clear plan: get as much sun and try as many vegan restaurants as possible.&nbsp; After extensively researching vegan restaurants in Biarritz, we were excited to try <a href="https://www.instagram.com/xuxubiarritz/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Xuxu</a>. Unfortunately it happened to be closed during our holiday. We had a peek inside the closed establishment, and if you are in the area when it’s open, it certainly looks good to try; we saw that they share super interesting insights about the locally sourced products they use. Speaking of local produce, a trip to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/biarritz_halles_centre_ville/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Les Halles</a> (the local market) is really a must! The French&nbsp;take pride in producing and consuming locally, and it really shows in their cuisine. We would suggest going early with a straw basket in hand. Pop into <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lobitacafe/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Lobita</a> for a quick specialty coffee and walk around the different flower, fruit and vegetable stalls. Other recommendations would be <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bloom.biarritz/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bloom</a>, a very French épicerie where you can buy spices, olives and even veggie patés in bulk. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.mezzeona.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mezze Ona</a>, a Lebanese takeaway restaurant (with different locations in the area), has the most delicious hummus and some vegan lunch options.&nbsp; If you are one for sweet treats, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hungrybelly.biarritz/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Hungry Belly</a> is really your spot in Biarritz. It was our first stop when we arrived in town, and it was so good that we visited again! Run by a very friendly woman (and her friendly dog), you’ll find amazing coffee and a wide offering of vegan cakes. However, what you’ll be most impressed with is their vegan (and gluten-free) patisserie: especially the soft almond biscuit with a (frozen) pistachio mousse filled with chocolate and peanuts, which was to die for! They also offer some lunch formulas and takeaway options. And if you really want to go all in with the sweet options, try another patisserie in town called <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nutsbiarritz/?hl=es" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Nuts</a>.&nbsp; Another place you can’t miss is having a drink or a meal by the Côte des Basques: an iconic surfing spot which boasts an exceptional setting, where you can see the iconic neo-Medieval mansion that was built on a cliff, iconic <a href="https://www.instagram.com/villabelza_/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Villa Belza</a>, and on the south side you can see the Spanish coastline. In order to take it all in, go to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/etxola.bibi/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Etxola Bibi</a> early in the morning and have a black coffee (it only costs 1 euro from 8 am to 10 am) and follow up with an açaí or mango bowl for breakfast. And if you really fancy the view, stay for lunch and order a vegan poke bowl and a glass of wine. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1692900783/Image_1_65_pic_2_bcf09d440d.png" alt="A view of the Villa Belza in Biarritz, France">Dany/Pexels In the same neighbourhood, you’ll find <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joiebiarritz/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Joie</a>, a pizzeria with a lovely vibe and cute terrace. And just a few metres down the street is the cutest restaurant we’ve ever visited: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aiete_biarritz" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Aiete</a>. We learned that afternoon what an amazing meal can do to the soul. An authentic and modern little spot with an open kitchen, lovely ambience and tasteful décor. Not only were the staff the friendliest, but also the most accommodating we have come across in a long time. The chefs were happy to veganise everything we ordered: the best (avant-garde) patatas bravas we’ve ever had came with a kimchi sauce, and we loved the homemade naan bread with confit chicory, hummus and edible flowers. All paired with a fruity Spanish orange wine. It can’t be stressed enough - you must go! The fusion of Basque and French cultures is really evident in the cuisine and when walking through the streets of Biarritz. So if you fancy an easy-going and quaint escape, a Biarritz holiday is the way to go!&nbsp; Travelling as a vegan can be daunting, but we have the perfect <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-travel-tips-plan-ahead-for-your-perfect-vegan-holiday" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan travel guide</a> to take the stress away, and if, like us, you have some festivals planned, we have a <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/eco-friendly-festival-tips-dance-without-destroying-the-planet" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">guide</a> for that too!

Biarritz Grande Plage (beach) in summer, France 

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How to enjoy a vegan-friendly holiday in Biarritz, France

The National Animal Rights March (NARM) was a fantastic success this year. Around 1000 vegans marched together for the animals on August 26th through London. There were several activist and campaigning groups present, and that’s the brilliant thing about the march: it brings together so many different people and organisations for a day of national action.&nbsp;&nbsp; Campaigners from <a href="https://instagram.com/vivacharity?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Viva!</a> and the <a href="https://instagram.com/animaljusticeproject?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Animal Justice Project</a> marched alongside <a href="https://instagram.com/veganrunnersuk?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Runners UK</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/animalaid_uk?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Animal Aid</a> and the <a href="https://instagram.com/hunt_saboteurs?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Hunt Saboteurs Association</a>. Street outreach groups and many other smaller grassroots groups were present too. The event started at Marble Arch with the route passing through Trafalgar Square before finishing in Parliament Square for speeches.&nbsp;&nbsp; <h2>Speakers&nbsp;</h2>The speakers this year were diverse and each very passionate about the march and animal rights. First up was performer <a href="https://instagram.com/by_katie_white?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Katie White</a> who sang a very powerful and emotive song to the crowd.&nbsp;This was followed by talks from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/create.liberate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Fran Vas</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/sean.ultra_vegan?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sean Barrs</a> (me), <a href="https://www.instagram.com/auralitepalmer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Aura Palmer</a>, Mel Broughton and <a href="https://instagram.com/wendymcgovern269?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Wendy McGovern</a>. The talks covered a range of topics and came from different levels of experience, but all expressed a need to unite and to continue with activism. The crowd were very receptive and applauded the speakers and the NARM organising team loudly. If you missed the march and are interested in hearing the speeches, or if you simply want to hear them again, you can do so on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@NationalAnimalRightsMarchUK" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">NARM’s YouTube channel</a>. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1693403067/Image_1_9_9620a3c57a.png" alt="Large gathering of vegan protestors during the National Animal Rights March 2023 in London outside Parliament Square ">Jaysee Costa <h2>NARM 2024</h2>Although this year’s march was an undeniable success, it was organised in a very short time frame. Before the pandemic, the march saw much bigger numbers; the organisers are very keen to grow it back to its former size and glory, uniting the vegan community with such an important national event.&nbsp; Next year’s march will be on the 7th of September and will follow a similar route. The early date release will give the organisers time to plan and allow the march to grow. This means next year’s march will be even bigger and better. So, make sure not to miss it! If you want to find out more details about NARM 2024 you can do so here on the <a href="https://fb.me/e/1rlUrfUGs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">event page</a>. Alternatively, you can follow the march on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094406502864" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/narm.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Instagram</a>. If you’re interested in learning more about activism in general then you can do so by reading our article on <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/unique-uk-animal-rights-activism-approaches" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">unique UK animal rights activism approaches</a>.

Vegan protestors holding placards and a large banner with ‘Animal Freedom’ spelt out on it during the National Animal Rights March 2023 in London

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1000 vegans march through London for animal rights 

September term marks the start of a new school year, and whether your child is returning to primary or secondary school, or starting their first year in reception, knowing how to support a vegan student can be a challenging experience. From finding out whether there are vegan student meals on the school menu and sourcing vegan-friendly uniforms, to braving an uncomfortable conversation with a teacher if speciesism is normalised in a classroom setting - it can be hard to know where to start.&nbsp; To make the transition a little easier, here’s our guide to making vegan-inclusive education for parents/guardians and students a positive prospect to look forward to and enjoy together. <h2>Student rights at school</h2>In the UK, vegans are protected under human rights and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegans-are-people-too-equality-act-2010-and-vegan-rights-at-work" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">equality law</a>, meaning that schools are obligated under the Equality Act 2010 to avoid any discrimination on the grounds of veganism. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/theoriginalvegansociety/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Vegan Society</a> has <a href="https://www.vegansociety.com/take-action/campaigns/catering-everyone/information-news/schools#:~:text=Vegan%20rights&amp;text=and%20equality%20law.-,This%20means%20that%20schools%20have%20an%20obligation%20to%20ensure%20that,on%20the%20grounds%20of%20veganism." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">a great range of free resources</a> for parents/guardians, students and schools, providing supportive and inclusive settings for vegan learners. Their team has a <a href="https://www.vegansociety.com/take-action/campaigns/catering-everyone/information-news/schools#:~:text=Vegan%20rights&amp;text=and%20equality%20law.-,This%20means%20that%20schools%20have%20an%20obligation%20to%20ensure%20that,on%20the%20grounds%20of%20veganism." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">support line</a> should you need any additional assistance, and a helpful <a href="https://www.vegansociety.com/take-action/campaigns/catering-everyone/write-your-rights/template-letters" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">letter template</a> that can be edited to your requirements and sent to schools/teachers etc. They also provide free <a href="https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/t3-p-165-dietary-requirements-veganism-lesson-pack" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan-friendly teaching and catering resources</a> for schools and teachers. <h2>Getting ready for school</h2>The most important aspect of school life for any student, is to ensure they feel supported and safe in their learning environment. Before the new term begins, talking through any concerns, and having a plan in place for how to deal with any potentially uncomfortable situations that may arise, is a good place to start. As a parent or guardian, allow your child to express themselves openly so you understand how they feel as a vegan learner. If you are a student yourself, airing any anxieties you may have will make it easier for the school to support your learning experience, and confiding in friends and family may help too.&nbsp; When sourcing vegan-friendly clothing and footwear, many school uniforms are vegan-friendly and usually made from a mix of cotton, polyester and viscose. Mainstream supermarkets such as <a href="https://direct.asda.com/george/school-uniform/D10,default,sc.html?_ga=2.91903453.691358497.1692191709-2087293339.1692191709" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Asda’s Back to School range</a> is (mostly) vegan-friendly and great if you’re on a budget too. If the school has a strict uniform policy that is not vegan-inclusive (i.e., leather shoes/wool jumper etc) they have a responsibility under the Equality Act 2010 to provide a vegan-friendly, accessible and affordable alternative. This <a href="https://www.healabel.com/vegan-fabrics-materials-list/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan materials list</a> is helpful to better understand which materials are/aren’t derived from animals. <h2>In the classroom</h2>For classroom essentials and stationery, most items are vegan-friendly, from pens and pencils, to rulers, erasers, and pencil cases, but items such as glue and other art and craft supplies may need to be checked first. A widely available vegan-friendly glue brand is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/elmersproducts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Elmers</a>, which can be bought online or in stores such as <a href="https://groceries.asda.com/search/elmers%20glue" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Asda</a> and <a href="https://www.therange.co.uk/stationery/office-supplies/glues-and-tape/pack-of-three-elmers-purple-gluesticks-6g/#49578" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Range</a>. The current curriculum in schools can be challenging for vegan learners, whether it’s feeling comfortable to voice a different opinion to a teacher in front of peers, or refraining from taking part in an activity, such as dissection or science experiments that use ingredients derived from animals. It is important that the school is made aware that a student is vegan, so that they are able to provide alternative options to partake in.&nbsp; The Vegan Society has a helpful selection of <a href="https://www.vegansociety.com/lifestyle/vegan-inclusive-education/resources" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">letter templates</a> to help with approaching schools when requesting vegan-inclusive education, and this downloadable <a href="https://vieducation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Vegan-Inclusive-Education-Booklet_March-2021_upd_online.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Education Booklet</a> is useful too. You can also <a href="https://vieducation.co.uk/pupils/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">add a school to the Vegan Inclusive Education database</a>; they will send a generic letter alerting the Headteacher that vegan students are in attendance at their facility, and how the school can best support them. <h2>Bullying</h2>A recent survey by<a href="https://vieducation.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://vieducation.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Inclusive Education</a> concluded that 73% of vegan pupils are teased for their beliefs, with 42% having experienced bullying, sometimes including physical harm. With less than 40% of vegan children feeling safe in school, putting adequate safeguarding procedures in place is vital. Having a support network for vegan learners so that they don’t feel ostracised or alone will help them feel safe.&nbsp; Changes in your child's behaviour may signify a <a href="https://anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/tools-information/advice-parents/spotting-signs-my-child-being-bullied?gclid=CjwKCAjw5_GmBhBIEiwA5QSMxDireI5A2XO5pDfInm-5tGMPQS3vYxTliCE2ohM2oi2GEaCLJ3P3ZRoC388QAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">sign of bullying</a>, listen and provide reassurance, and calmly contact the school to speak with the Headteacher. It may be beneficial to seek advice from anti-bullying charities such as the <a href="https://anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Anti-Bullying Alliance</a>, <a href="https://actagainstbullying.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Act Against Bullying</a> and the <a href="https://www.nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk/about.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">National Bullying Helpline</a> for additional support. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1692900039/Image_1_64_pic_2_5d1d13e72c.png" alt="Young children reading books lying on the grass in a field with their parents">Canva/Halfpoint <h2>School trips</h2>School excursions are a great opportunity to learn outside the classroom and have fun with classmates. Whilst many school trips are not always vegan-friendly, that doesn’t mean that vegan students need to miss out.&nbsp; There are many educational activities available to schools that help students of all ages reconnect with nature and animals, from a local hiking trip in a <a href="https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/nature-reserves" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Wildlife Trust nature reserve</a> to <a href="https://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/expert-advice/growing-in-your-space/schools" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">organic gardening classes</a>, <a href="https://www.raystarbooks.com/workshops" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">writing for nature workshops</a>, or tree planting initiatives with your local council.&nbsp; Research local animal sanctuaries in your area and enquire whether they accept school visits, if they do, suggest this to the school instead of the farm/zoo/aquarium trip they had planned, and try to have an open conversation with the school organisers about the reasons why. More often than not, approaching the subject calmly, and openly, can lead to a positive outcome for all involved - including animals too! For more help and advice on supporting a vegan family, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-parenting-helpful-tools-for-raising-vegan-children" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">helpful tools for raising vegan children</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-children-what-we-feed-our-children-s-minds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">what we feed our children’s minds</a>.

Two girls smiling in front of a blackboard 

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Vegan education: How to help vegan students thrive at school

Aizzy’s (pronounced eye-zees) is a hidden gem for amazing vegan food that we’re so happy we came across!&nbsp; Currently cooking up each dish in a compact unit in St Jude's, we can confidently say that <a href="https://instagram.com/aizzys_?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Aizzy’s</a> is home to some of the best Jamaican vegan food in Bristol.&nbsp; Serving up a variety of classic Jamaican dishes that have been veganised, Aizzy’s offers ‘boxes’ that include anything from mac and cheeze, vegan fried chicken, seasoned chips, curried goat, rice &amp; peas - all completely vegan.&nbsp; If you’re looking for something lighter, Aizzy’s regularly has special deals and lunchtime offers, with one of their most popular deals being the fried chicken, seasoned chips and drinks deal - all for under ten pounds.&nbsp; Available on Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Food Stuff in Bristol, believe us when we say Aizzy’s isn’t to be missed.&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2>Where it started&nbsp;</h2>It was a pleasure to speak to Ria, the owner of Aizzy’s. Her passion for creating fantastic vegan food really shone through during our conversation, and she let us know the story behind how her family-run business first started:&nbsp; “Aizzy’s actually first started under a different name, ‘The Taste of Life’, back in 2018. I was running my business from my home at the beginning.”&nbsp; Ria’s father is Jamaican and mother is English. She grew up eating delicious Jamaican food and always loved cooking.&nbsp; “When I went vegan, I wanted to recreate the same flavours from my childhood, just without the meat or dairy.”&nbsp; After falling pregnant with her daughter, Ria realised she wanted to have the freedom to spend time with her new family. This merged with her love of cooking fantastic Jamaican vegan food and sparked the start of Aizzy’s as we know it now (which is named after her daughter, Aissa).&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2>The Feast Box&nbsp;</h2>We were lucky enough to try one of Aizzy’s highly rated Feast Boxes, which consisted of vegan fried chicken, curried ‘no goat’, rice &amp; peas, mac and cheeze, fried plantain, a pot of coleslaw, and topped off with a generous tub of jerk gravy.&nbsp; The Feast Box comes in a large tub filled to the brim with each dish, with all the flavours coming together and complementing each other so well.&nbsp; The creaminess of the mac and cheeze pairs beautifully with the rich sauce of the curried ‘no goat’. For each mouthful, you want to combine a bit of each option so you can taste it all!&nbsp; There are such a fantastic variety of different dishes in this box, we think it’s worth giving a run down of the key parts of this meal.&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2>Curried ‘no goat’&nbsp;</h2>Aizzy’s curried ‘no goat’ is a take on the popular Jamaican dish of curried goat.&nbsp; The flavours were rich and comforting, with each bite making you want to return for more.&nbsp; With generous portions of vegan ‘goat’, the meat is recreated using lentils and wheat gluten, which soaked up the seasonings in this dish.&nbsp; You can enjoy authentic flavours when having Aizzy’s curried ‘no goat’, cooked using garlic, pimento, potatoes, peppers, onions, and a generous helping of scotch bonnet, perfect for vegans who love a bit of spice.&nbsp; When we asked Ria what her favourite dish was from Aizzy’s, she answered with certainty, “Definitely the curried goat. I was amazed at how well I could recreate the flavours in the vegan version.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2> </h2><h2>Vegan fried chicken&nbsp;</h2>The vegan fried chicken from Aizzy’s truly blew our minds. Coated in a golden crispy batter and complemented by the flaky and tender inside of the ‘vegan chicken’ (made from wheat gluten and soy!). With the Feast Box, you get two large pieces of vegan fried chicken, which is a match made in heaven when dipped in the jerk gravy. If you can’t have soy or prefer a different option, you also have the option to have fried oyster mushroom instead, which also comes in the flavour-packed crispy batter.&nbsp; <h2>Mac and cheeze&nbsp;</h2>Mac and cheeze is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and Aizzy’s vegan version is not to be missed.&nbsp; Their creamy baked mac and cheeze comes with a generous amount of cheeze sauce. Creamy and light with a distinctive cheesy flavour, this dish is topped off with a sprinkle of onions and chives that cuts through the softer flavours.&nbsp; Available in both the Feast Box and Mega Box options, the gooey mac and cheeze pairs well with the crispy fried chicken and rich sauce from the curried ‘no goat’.&nbsp; <h2>The coleslaw (not to be underestimated!)&nbsp;</h2>Rarely do we find a vegan coleslaw as good as Aizzy’s. The crunchy and creamy texture of the coleslaw is almost addictive, with a slight hint of sweetness. It’s not to be missed with the Feast Box.&nbsp; “You have to have coleslaw with the dishes, especially the curried goat!” says Ria.&nbsp; <h2>Jerk gravy&nbsp;</h2>Added as a complimentary sauce with any box from Aizzy, this fruity yet fiery helping of jerk gravy helps bring together all the flavours in Aizzy’s vegan Jamaican food.&nbsp; Rich, smoky and with a slight hint of spice, the gravy is the perfect accompaniment to any dish at Aizzy’s, whether dipping your vegan fried chicken, or pouring it straight over each dish in the Feast Box.&nbsp; You can tell that so much love and time has gone into every part of Aizzy’s. With such a great variety of Jamaican vegan food, you’re spoilt for choice when ordering from this family-run business.&nbsp; Whether you live in Bristol or are planning your next visit, read our guide to the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/best-vegan-restaurants-in-bristol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">best vegan restaurants</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/where-to-go-for-vegan-cocktails-in-bristol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">where to go for vegan cocktails</a>.

Variety of vegan Jamaican food from Aizzy’s, includes: fried plantain, ‘vegan goat’, rice, coleslaw and gravy

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Aizzy’s: Mind-blowing vegan Jamaican food in Bristol


<a href="https://www.instagram.com/loocaswoodland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Lucas Woodland</a> is no ordinary vegan; he’s a vocal powerhouse fronting <a href="https://www.instagram.com/holdingabsence/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Holding Absence</a>, a band comprised of vegans and veggies. Often found touring the world, and with a new album releasing at the end of this week, we were incredibly lucky to have a post-festival chat about all things music and vegan. V-Land UK (V-L): How did your journey into veganism begin?&nbsp; Lucas Woodland (LW): I’ve been vegetarian for almost ten years now and it was a really positive life choice for me. I decided to make the change on January 1st, and several years later, I’d started to feel a little hypocritical about being a veggie. So, eight years later, on January 1st again, I decided to make the switch to veganism. My family are very used to it now, but the biggest change was to my health - I have very bad acid reflux, and I struggled a little at first. A year or so later, after shifting my diet etc, everything’s smooth and great! V-L: Your new album, The Noble Art of Self-Destruction, is fast approaching release. How are you finding the build-up? LW: It’s tough some days, everything is hectic, and some days I grow impatient. It’s the same with everything, to be honest, there’s never a midpoint, but we’re absolutely counting down the minutes until it drops! We’re so proud of it. V-L: From what we’ve heard, the new album sounds amazing already! Being a touring musician, how do you find vegan options on the road? Which country has been the most accommodating? LW: I religiously use <a href="https://www.happycow.net" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">HappyCow</a>. It’s led me to have some of my favourite meals of all time in the most random places! I’d honestly say the UK is best, and then Australia in swift second place. America and the EU can be great, but they’re both so big that for every brilliant independent restaurant, you’ll find yourself eating pretzels or fries. V-L: Do you get a chance to try vegan vendors on the festival circuit? If so, which vendors stand out to you? What’s the best vegan meal you’ve ever had? LW: I will always try a vegan vendor if there is one at a fest! I’m pretty sure there was an insane <a href="https://vfcfoods.com/vfc-acquires-meatless-farm/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Meatless Farm</a> vendor stall at Download Pilot - I think I ate six meals from there over the weekend! My favourite restaurant used to be <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci7ZAo1rvi6/?img_index=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">V-Revs Manchester</a> (RIP), but I currently love <a href="https://www.instagram.com/oowee_vegan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Oowee Bristol</a>, and have to shout out <a href="https://www.restaurantji.co.uk/wales/cwmbran/the-queen-inn-/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">The Queen Inn Cwmbran</a> and <a href="https://veggiehut.co.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Veggie Hut Pontypridd</a>. It’s great to see vegan food places pop up in the small Welsh areas I grew up in. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1692356968/Image_1_63_pic_2_11fe715d30.png" alt="The Queen Inn Cwmbran"><a href="https://www.restaurantji.co.uk/wales/cwmbran/the-queen-inn-/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Queen Inn Cwmbran</a> V-L: Do you think that your vegan diet has an impact on the amount of energy you have on stage? LW: I’m not entirely sure, to be honest. I went vegan during COVID, so I don’t really know how much it affected me, but as a vocalist it’s made my life far easier. No more stinky dairy clogging up my vocal cords! V-L: What are some of your favourite vegan brands (food and/or clothing) and favourite vegan restaurants? LW: I’ve tried so much vegan stuff that, at this point, I’m just happy to try something new, whatever it may be! I’ve no real brand loyalty, if it’s vegan, I’m down. I will say though, bonus points to brands like Richmond incorporating vegan products into their lines. V-L: Your latest song, Honey Moon, is utterly beautiful and we just want to say a huge thank you for creating such fantastic music - from 2019 when you held the Eat &amp; Greet to playing the main stage at Slam Dunk in 2023, it’s impressive to see Holding Absence skyrocketing. How do you look after your mental health? LW: Thank you so much!! We’ve loved the journey this band has taken us on… I’d say honestly, my mental health is preserved by being afforded the luck to do what I love, and also to spend time with the people I love when I’m home too. I’m in a very fortunate spot lately! <a href="https://www.banquetrecords.com/holding-absence/the-noble-art-of-self-destruction/4065629701321" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Noble Art of Self-Destruction</a> will be available on 25th August 2023 in stores and on all major streaming platforms. This album aims to end on a note of hope, of looking forward free of fear and embracing yourself, cracks, and all.&nbsp; If this piqued your interest, check out our article on <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-music-legends" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan music legends</a>.&nbsp;

Lucas Woodland, lead vocalist from Holding Absence, singing into a microphone during a live performance

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Holding Absence’s Lucas Woodland on the noble art of veganism

New York City and London are two vibrant metropolises renowned for their cultural diversity, iconic landmarks, and thriving food scenes. While each city has its unique charm, there is a particular connection that has blossomed between the vegan communities of London and New York. In this article, we explore why vegan Londoners have fallen head over heels for the plant-based delights that the Big Apple has to offer. <h2>Culinary excellence</h2>New York City has emerged as a haven for vegan cuisine, offering a vast array of innovative plant-based dishes that tantalise the taste buds. From vegan burgers stacked high with mouthwatering toppings to delectable vegan pizzas and artisanal vegan cheese, New York's eateries have mastered the art of creating plant-based versions of beloved classics. For vegan Londoners who appreciate diverse culinary experiences, the city offers a culinary adventure like no other.<h2> </h2><h2>Diversity and choice</h2>New York City's vegan scene is incredibly diverse, reflecting the multiculturalism that the city is renowned for. Whether it's Ethiopian injera, Mexican tacos, or Japanese sushi, vegan Londoners can explore an extensive range of global flavours without compromising their dietary choices. The abundance of vegan-friendly restaurants, cafés, and food trucks across New York ensures&nbsp;that vegan Londoners are spoiled for choice and can indulge in a world of cruelty-free culinary delights. <h2>Ethical and sustainable lifestyle</h2>Veganism is not just about food; it is a lifestyle that encompasses ethical and sustainable choices. New York City shares this commitment to promoting environmentally-friendly practices, making it a perfect fit for vegan Londoners. The city embraces sustainable initiatives, ranging from farmers' markets and organic stores to eco-conscious fashion brands. Vegan Londoners find solace in the shared values and the sense of community they discover in New York. <h2>Social activism and support</h2>New York City has an active vegan community that rallies around causes related to animal rights and sustainability. Vegan Londoners who visit or reside in New York can participate in protests, educational events, and fundraisers, fostering a sense of empowerment and solidarity. The city's numerous vegan meetups, workshops, and support groups provide an invaluable opportunity for vegan Londoners to connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate lasting friendships. The bond between vegan Londoners and New York City is undeniable, driven by a shared passion for delectable plant-based cuisine, ethical values, and a commitment to sustainability. The vegan scene in New York City not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers a platform for vegan Londoners to engage in social activism and connect with a vibrant community. As the vegan movement continues to thrive in both cities, the love affair between vegan Londoners and New York is bound to grow, inspiring positive change and culinary innovation on both sides of the Atlantic. New York isn’t the only city that’s great for vegans: check our vegan guides to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/fall-in-love-with-the-copenhagen-vegan-scene" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Copenhagen</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/must-dos-when-spending-24-hours-as-a-vegan-in-berlin" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Berlin</a>.

Skyscrapers of New York City with the North Atlantic Ocean in front of them

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The love affair between vegan Londoners and New York City

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/jamesmooreactor/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">James Moore</a> is an <a href="https://disabilityhorizons.com/2019/01/disabled-actor-james-moore-wins-best-newcomer-at-the-ntas-2019/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">award-winning</a> soap star, famed for his role as Ryan Stocks on Emmerdale, who uses his platform to advocate for disability representation in the media. James has <a href="https://www.ataxia.org.uk/patrons/james-moore/#:~:text=You%20may%20recognise%20James%20from,and%20is%20a%20disability%20activist." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">cerebral palsy with ataxic symptoms</a>, and in 2016, directed a short film on YouTube called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_m2K72xCbYU&amp;t=110s" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Spaghetti Legs</a>, which is a satirical take on what it’s like to be disabled and the way people communicate with disabled people. James is also a passionate vegan and has been an ambassador for <a href="https://veganuary.com/soap-stars-veganuary-2022/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Veganuary</a> since 2020.&nbsp; V-Land UK (V-L): Hi James, thank you so much for agreeing to be interviewed! How long have you been vegan for? James Moore (JM): Thank you -&nbsp;I've been vegan for five years. V-L: What inspired you to adapt to a vegan lifestyle? JM:&nbsp;A friend of mine was vegan, and I was interested, so he recommended I watch a documentary called <a href="http://www.nationearth.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Earthlings</a>, and that changed my perspective on the way I viewed animal consumption.&nbsp; V-L: As a vocal advocate for disability representation, how did it feel to represent a character with a disability on a mainstream television show? JM: Although they didn't base the character on me, I feel like me and Ryan have a lot of similar attributes, which helped me understand their vision of the character and develop it from there. V-L: Do you receive any negativity for your role on Emmerdale, and if so, how does it compare to any negativity you may receive for being vegan?&nbsp; JM:&nbsp;I have received negativity online, but it mainly comes in the form of ableist comments about my voice, or the way I walk, or even my long hair. Thankfully, these comments are few and far between, and I think now people are a lot more used to my character, so it isn't a big deal anymore. ﻿<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1692034275/IMG_2399_58d0a57ac9.png" alt="James Moore from Emmerdale sitting inside a pub">ITV V-L: As vegans, we can be naturally very empathic, but do you think that living with a disability makes you even more empathetic? JM: Perhaps, because I feel like I'm more able to relate to people's struggles, but I think it's all relative. Regardless of whether you're disabled or vegan, I think empathy is something that's going to come from you and your personality, not necessarily your lifestyle choices.&nbsp; V-L: What have you struggled with the most in relation to being vegan, eating vegan food, and the perceptions of those around you?&nbsp; JM: Honestly, the biggest struggle at the beginning, was finding out what I could and couldn't eat! There is so much stuff that has milk in that you wouldn't think does, so adapting to that was difficult. My family were really accepting and began helping me find vegan food and cooking more vegan options, and even trying more vegan alternatives themselves! V-L: Where are some of your favourite vegan places to eat? Do you ever struggle to source vegan food? What is the catering like on-set, and does it accommodate different diets? Or do you struggle to find vegan food?&nbsp; JM: I love going to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/oowee_vegan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Oowee</a> in Bristol. It's a great vegan junk food restaurant with loads of amazing burgers, loaded fries, etc. Sometimes it can be a struggle to find vegan food, depending on where I am, and what I'm doing. But I use the HappyCow app when I'm visiting a new location and a lot of the time that really helps with finding places. V-L: What do you think we can do as a society to challenge the perceptions of people who don't necessarily support veganism, or refuse to acknowledge the practices that take place across the world? JM: Different methods are going to affect people in different ways. Some people could be turned to veganism by the realisation of how barbaric the meat and dairy industry is, but you're not going to reach everyone that way. Some people may be persuaded by the idea that eating a well-balanced, vegan diet is actually very good for your health, especially when you consider how much disease meat can cause. Also, I feel like no one ever talks about it, but when you become vegan, you really reduce your risk of food poisoning, because most food poisoning will happen as a result of bacteria from meat and dairy products. It's still possible, but the risk is a lot less.&nbsp; If you enjoyed this article, check out our article on the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegans-are-people-too-equality-act-2010-and-vegan-rights-at-work" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Equality Act 2010 and vegan rights at work</a>, or if health is more your thing, check out our article on <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/can-a-plant-based-diet-help-keep-crohn-s-disease-in-remission" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">whether a plant-based diet can help keep Crohn’s disease in remission</a>.

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Emmerdale's James Moore on the challenges and rewards of veganism


Vegan Camp Out was a hugely successful event this year, and it attracted many <a href="https://www.instagram.com/veganrunnersuk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Runners</a> who attended the parkrun in record-breaking numbers. As the festival continues to grow, so does the number of Vegan Runners in attendance every year. Everywhere you looked, someone was wearing a Vegan Runner shirt or hoodie.&nbsp; <h2>Vegan Camp Out&nbsp;</h2>15,000 tickets were sold for the festival, with attendees from all parts of the country and abroad. The weekend was a massive success, with several leading activists such as Joey Carbstrong and Tash Peterson speaking on the stage, along with representatives from organisations such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vivacharity/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Viva!</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/activism.wtf/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">We the Free</a>. In addition, vegan celebrities like Romesh Ranganathan and Sam Ryder were also part of the lineup.&nbsp; The food line-up was equally as fantastic, with a huge list of options far too long to list here. There were so many to choose from! Several clothing stands and activism stalls were also operating throughout, one of which was run by Vegan Runners, which signed up many new members throughout the weekend.&nbsp; <h2>Bicester Parkrun&nbsp;</h2>A record-breaking number of Vegan Runners attended Bicester parkrun, just three miles away from the venue, during the Vegan Camp Out weekend. 300 vegan runners were scanned at the parkrun on the Saturday morning of the camp-out (and gathered for a group photo before the run to mark the occasion) which is the highest number of club members attending the same parkrun. As the festival continues to grow, so does the number of club members in attendance and the parkrun gatherings get bigger each year too. 2024 is set to be bigger and better for Vegan Camp Out and the running club. Tickets for the 2024 are already available to purchase online <a href="https://vegancampouttickets.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a><a href="https://vegancampouttickets.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</a>&nbsp; <h2>The Growth of Vegan Runners</h2>Vegan Runners started in 2005 with just 10 members and has been growing every year since. As of 2022, it has 3042 members. The club has runners of all abilities, from elite-level athletes to casual joggers. The best thing about the club is its inclusivity. Sure, it’s great to have runners who can win races, but it is also great to have runners who can relate to runners who run for fun, fitness and general health. Anyone and everyone are welcome to join, regardless of ability, provided they are vegan.&nbsp; If you’re interested in joining the club, you can do so <a href="https://www.veganrunners.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">here</a><a href="https://www.veganrunners.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</a>&nbsp; And if you’re interested in hearing about one of the club's most inspiring members, check out our interview with <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/never-too-old-to-run-85-year-old-vegan-ultra-runner-paul-youd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Paul Youd</a>, the 85-year-old ultra-runner.

Large group of Vegan Runners gathered in Bicester park during Vegan Camp Out

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300 Vegan Runners joined Bicester parkrun during Vegan Camp Out

Activism takes many forms and over the years social justice movements have approached the fight to obtain rights in many ways. Direct action, marches, protests, petitions and even social media can play a part.&nbsp; If you are of an artistic disposition, you can use your creative skills to great effect. A perfect example of this is music. As a medium, it has the ability to evoke strong emotions. It can be powerful and visceral, enabling a strong animal rights message to be heard and acted upon. Below are V-Land’s top 5 vegan artists who use music as a form of activism. <h2>Moby</h2>After going vegan in 1987, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/moby" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Moby</a> is now a prolific and vocal advocate for animals. Much of his music is influenced by this position and in 1996 he released the album titled <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3xmlMrPhua2HDRR0YwkUH0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Animal Rights</a>. This deviated from his usual style, and given the subject matter, it wasn’t that well received by his broader fan base. Nonetheless, he has amassed a catalogue of 20 studio albums and sold over 20 million records.&nbsp;&nbsp;An interesting watch is his feature-length documentary, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9q1IidazY8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Punk Rock Vegan Movie</a>, which looks at punk rock’s links to animal rights activism. As anarchists, punk rockers were more likely to question societal norms, including how the food we eat is produced.&nbsp; <h2>Prince</h2>Like Moby, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prince" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Prince</a> needs little introduction. His music impacted a generation, and with over 150 million records sold worldwide, he is one of the best-selling artists of all time.&nbsp; After going vegan in the 1990s he released the single, “<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1PxVh7MUB9iGtd3opcfXnJ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Animal Kingdom</a>”, in 1998. This firmly rejected the notion that it was OK to exploit animals for any purpose. A year later, he released the album <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/54xp79ruakOSPWUE7YawIe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic</a>. On the cover, he wore a tight-fitting blue outfit, typical of his style. It was a definite statement piece in presentation and meaning. In the sleeve of the album, he wrote: “If this jacket were real wool, it would have taken seven lambs whose lives would have begun like this… Within weeks of their birth, their ears would have been hole-punched, their tails chopped off and the males would have been castrated while fully conscious. Extremely high rates of mortality are considered normal: 20-40% of lambs die before the age of 8 weeks: 8 million mature sheep die every year from disease, exposure or neglect. Many people believe shearing helps animals who would otherwise be too hot. But in order to avoid losing any wool, ranchers shear sheep before they would naturally shed their winter coats, resulting in millions of sheep deaths from exposure to the cold.” Unfortunately, he is no longer with us, but his contribution to the movement lives on and still influences people to this day. <h2>Macka B</h2>With a career spanning decades, this British-born Jamaican reggae artist has a <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ph6mRzG0lANVJRBTUIxI2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">back catalogue</a> any musician would envy.&nbsp; Following the principles of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ital" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Ital</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/officialmackab" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Macka B</a> adheres to and promotes the benefits of a whole food plant-based diet.&nbsp; <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0IDk2BLXypQbSK6yi4ekuH" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Wha Me Eat</a> is a firm favourite. It chronicles the very relatable tale of vegans having to explain what they do and, more importantly, don’t eat. For a more playful, solo vegetable-focused track, check out <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/2sLd6kJMLkVi2jgy1RTIC7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Cucumba</a>. The song regales the multiple health benefits of the humble cucumber. You might be surprised by its versatility. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1691099221/Image_1_61_pic_2_8a6d0275cb.png" alt="Macka B holding a microphone and smiling "><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61711688" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Krd</a>/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/?ref=openverse" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> <h2>Mobius Loop</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mobiusloopmusic" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mobius Loop</a> are an independent philosophical folk band with veganism at their core. Their desire for improvement includes humans, with songs and lyrics that reflect this mission. With 3 albums under their belt, the latest offering, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/4HhVBH6NGI1kecyRnt6E9U" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">2020 Vi5ion</a>, includes the strong anti-hunting song, “<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/6Yymx8C9GFUyw2Bbp3cSZf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Foxtrot Tally Hoedown</a>”.&nbsp; Eccentric in presentation and performance they are well worth checking out <a href="https://www.mobiusloop.co.uk/tickets" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">live</a>. <h2>Vegan Queen V&nbsp;</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/veganqueenv" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Queen V</a> is a solo female pop singer who is passionate about both human and non-human rights. Her debut album, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/4aPKaroFeAqZhYKYBrHYke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Freedom Warrior</a>, was released in May 2022. It is exclusively dedicated to highlighting all the ways in which animals are exploited. “<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1ZzO2Eph7WNE0iE3v5KzNq" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Dominion</a>”, the opening track, is a melancholic questioning of why humans continue to abuse their position of power. If you listen to just one album today, this should be it.&nbsp; <h2>Honorary mentions&nbsp;</h2>Another dedicated animal rights album worth adding to your playlist is <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3KdauY9XaYaiqGjdRdTjdW" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Animal Liberation</a> by <a href="https://musicdigi.com/post/artist-spotlight-3a-liberation-drummer" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Liberation Drummer</a>.&nbsp; And our final pick is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/andyjonesofficial" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Andy Jones</a>. He has released multiple albums which include tracks like “<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/2kAjcUSZhG0dDPG0tYXCU9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">I See You</a>” and “<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0ZdVU77zIrDi3PyYpBaXM5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Better Than This</a>”. Like the artists above, if you want to get creative with your animal rights activism, check out which vegan artists to follow on Instagram in our article, <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/art-as-activism-vegan-artists-to-follow-on-instagram" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">art as activism</a>. For even more inspiration on how to get started, or for additional options to expand your activism, have a look at <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/unique-uk-animal-rights-activism-approaches" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">unique UK animal rights activism approaches</a>.

 Moby singing into a microphone and playing guitar

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5 vegan artists using music as a form of animal rights activism

Set within the Rutland Works, a building once filled with the sound of clanging hammers and quenching steel, we visited <a href="https://www.instagram.com/templeof.fun/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Church - Temple of Fun</a> (aka Church) - the best place to go in Yorkshire for vegan food, or any kind of food for that matter. Fresh off a hectic tour schedule, we were fortunate enough to bump into <a href="https://www.instagram.com/olobersykes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Oli Sykes</a>, the owner of Church (and international rockstar!) outside the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dropdeadofficial/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Drop Dead</a> Warehouse - which backs onto the actual restaurant. You’d be forgiven for not associating an international rockstar with a vegan diet, but Oli proves you can be rock ‘n’ roll and lead a healthy lifestyle.&nbsp; After a chat and some pictures, we headed inside and were amazed at how visually stunning Church is, with notes of <a href="https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803100252535;jsessionid=5090848110B281DB54BB345DD81393F0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Opus Francigenum</a> and a touch of Latin American Church combining perfectly with the walls adorned with artwork, crosses, candles, and shrines. The seats are ex-church seats with spaces for bibles behind them, and the décor is an ode to archaic art, with a heavy influence of religion, but if you’re thinking of traditional religion you’d be wrong for the religion to follow here is veganism.&nbsp; <h2 class="ql-align-justify">What makes this restaurant stand out from the rest?</h2>Given that Church is owned by Oli Sykes, we expected the place to be overrun with alternative folk but were surprised to find that this is truly a family restaurant. There were people at the bar having their daily pint (or three) and families all gathered around the large screen watching a movie. Far from the metal heads and emo kids we were expecting. They recently held a pop-up event for <a href="https://overnight-angels-crew.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Overnight Angels</a>, had <a href="https://www.instagram.com/malevolenceriff/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Malevolence</a> play on New Year’s Eve, frequently screen films, and regularly hold life-drawing/doggy day drawing sessions. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">What was the food like?</h2>Our waitress, Liv, was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, so we decided to give her full control over what we were served. We asked for her favourite items, and she delivered. Drinks were up first and as soon as we saw the frozen margarita cocktail with a shot of CBD, we were sold. The glass was so cold that it started to frost over before the drink even started melting - exactly what was needed on such a hot sunny day. We also tried the delightful Beavertown Neck Oil IPA which helped to wash down the food, making space for dessert. With the sun blasting through the windows and a gentle breeze emanating from the double doors leading to the balcony, we were served an array of food. We began with chilli cheese criss-cross fries with homemade guacamole and sour cream. The chilli cheese sauce dribbled into the holes of the criss-cross fries, ensuring that every single bite was packed with flavour. The fries were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with visible steam leaving after every bite. Next up were the oyster mushrooms with BBQ sauce, and wasabi mayonnaise. The BBQ sauce was fruity, tangy, and had a beautiful layer of smoke which paired perfectly with the oyster mushrooms, which were fried to a crisp perfection (and not a single drop of grease or oil present). The silkiness of the wasabi mayonnaise combined with the heat from the horseradish set the tastebuds into an overdrive of pleasure. As if this wasn’t enough, we were then served another two dishes: BBQ chicken salad bowl and the signature Syko burger, aptly named after Oli himself. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1691098189/Image_1_60_pic_2_77b01435cd.png" alt="Syko vegan burger with a charcoal bun and chips on a wooden table in Church in Sheffield">El James Interestingly, the BBQ chicken salad bowl contained BBQ chunks from Oumph! and believe us, Oumph! has never tasted so good. The chargrilled pieces of protein had a slight chew but remained deliciously moist, leaving us savouring the entire bowl. From the perfectly cooked corn ribs to the freshness of the salad, it’s not hard to see how this could become the go-to summer dish.&nbsp; The Syko burger was served with a bed of lightly seasoned fries and consisted of a homemade B12 burger sandwiched between lettuce and tomato on a charcoal bun, drizzled with Syko sauce, and a beer-battered onion ring. The Syko sauce had a sweet BBQ twang to it, and we completely devoured the burger. Notably, this burger can be made gluten-free except for the charcoal bun, as the onion rings are made with gluten-free beer. As Liv provided us with dessert - a KitKat cheesecake with Oreo crumb and whipped cream - rings of Happy Birthday rang out for someone celebrating a 60th Birthday. Despite being full to the brim with delicious food, we somehow found room for the cheesecake and demolished that too. The chocolate mousse was light and airy, and the Oreo crumb balanced out the slightly salty mousse. This was a visit of utter divinity with absolutely no complaints, no improvements needed, just wonderful food and customer service. Bursting at the seams, we somehow made it to the balcony, where we took in the sights of the River Don and the beauty of Sheffield. It would be a disservice to call Church your everyday, run-of-the-mill, celebrity venture. Church is absolutely a place that has established itself as the heart of the community, and what a community it is. From doggy drawing sessions to bands like Malevolence playing on New Year’s Eve, there is truly something for everyone at Church; and they welcome you as though you’re a part of the family. Church gets the V-Land UK stamp of approval, and we will absolutely be back! If this article has left you desperate for some vegan junk food, check out what happened when we visited <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/vegan-noms-brighton-guilt-free-vegan-junk-food" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Noms</a> and <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/rabbit-food-edinburgh-s-new-favourite-spot-for-vegan-junk-food-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Rabbit Food</a>.

Décor inside Church - Temple of Fun in Sheffield, influenced by archaic art and religion

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Church - Temple of Fun: A place of worship for vegan foodies

Being vegan shouldn’t stop you from rocking a full sleeve; you just need to make sure you’re clued up before you get tatted up, on what ingredients you should look out for. Veganism, as many of us know, is about so much more than just what we eat, and thankfully the tattoo industry is now well-versed in how the traditional practice of tattooing isn't always vegan-friendly. Certain ingredients and ways of tattooing can mean that unassuming things like a disposable razor and the tattoo ink itself aren’t vegan.&nbsp; <h2>Tattoo ink</h2>As something that’s going to be on your body forever, it had better be vegan! Tattoo ink can contain gelatin, a type of collagen derived from animal muscle and bone that acts as a binding agent to hold ink together. Most tattoo artists pride themselves on being inclusive toward vegans and will use a vegan tattoo ink that has ingredients such as carbon or burnt logwood. Tattoos often contain bone char, an ingredient used to blacken the ink and create a darker pigmentation. To get the end result of ‘bone char’ is exactly what it sounds like, animal bones are burnt and charred to achieve charcoal.&nbsp; Tattoo ink can also contain shellac, which according to <a href="https://www.peta.org/living/food/animal-ingredients-list/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">PETA</a> is the “resinous excretion of certain insects.” These insects are the female lac bug found in Southeast Asia. Before the lac bug lays her eggs she will cover herself entirely in this secretion called ‘shellac’, a desirable commodity that gives a distinct sheen to sweets, furniture polish, and even apples! Farmers will collect the shellac off branches, along with the lac bug’s eggs which are sadly killed as a byproduct of shellac farming.&nbsp; <h2>Tattoo prep and aftercare&nbsp;</h2>Maybe most surprising, at least to us, are the ingredients used in the preparation and aftercare of getting a tattoo. Disposable razors are not only bad for the environment with well over a million thrown away each week, but they also contain glycerin, an ingredient found in the lubricant strip of razor blades. Glycerin derived from animal-based fats is most commonly tallow, aka beef or lamb. Vegan tattoos use glycerin made from vegetable fats.&nbsp; You can always ask your tattoo artist about the ingredients they use, bring your own reusable razor, or just book a <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/are-tattoos-vegan-vegan-tattoo-artist-mogg-fills-us-in" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">vegan tattoo artist</a> who specialises in vegan tattoos. You’ll be supporting a vegan artist and can feel assured that your new ink is cruelty-free.&nbsp;&nbsp; Another important aspect of tattoo aftercare is vegan tattoo balm. Beeswax is a popular ingredient used to soothe and moisturise dry and sensitive skin, especially after a tattoo. Many creams will use beeswax as a natural anti-inflammatory to create a barrier to prevent the newly inked skin from getting infected. Look out for balms that contain ingredients such as olive oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, or even coconut oil.&nbsp; Most importantly, feel excited about your new tattoo and try not to worry too much!&nbsp; For all things vegan tattoo check out our interview with vegan tattoo artist <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/are-tattoos-vegan-vegan-tattoo-artist-mogg-fills-us-in" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Mogg</a>.

Multicoloured tattoo sleeve on a black background 

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Vegan tattoos: Think before you ink

Lisbon is a historic city which can be traced back as far as the Neolithic period. Today, its extended boundary is home to around 3 million people and is bursting with culture and tradition. It is a truly global city and sits on the westernmost point of continental Europe. If you have never visited, V-Land highly recommends a trip, or three. The history, the stunning architecture, the glorious weather and the Portuguese vegan food combine to make it a must go to destination.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <h2>The Portuguese love for food</h2>We can all agree that any good trip starts and ends with fabulous fayre and Lisbon delivers. Consider yourself warned as the city is hilly, so take a good pair of walking shoes; you’ll need them and an energy boost to get around. Thankfully there are many eateries across the city to ensure you have a constant supply of the necessary food fuel. We could easily recommend all the vegan Lisbon restaurants we visited and suggest you check <a href="https://www.happycow.net/europe/portugal/lisbon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Happy Cow</a> to see what appeals to you, but here are our top three picks. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_green_affair/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">The Green Affair</a> has 4 locations, all with a sophisticated art deco feel. We visited two of them and they did not disappoint. Their cuisine is international and the highlights for us were the gyoza dumplings, seitan steak and mushroom risotto. We were even compelled to write a note to the kitchen staff to thank them for the delicious dishes they had prepared for us.&nbsp; Nestled in the hilly streets to the west of the city is the small but perfectly formed <a href="https://www.instagram.com/legumisushi/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Legumi Sushi Vegan</a>. As far as vegan sushi goes, Lisbon or otherwise, they excel. Be sure to arrive hungry, as our recommendation is to order the all-you-can-eat option. The centrepiece of your meal will be the sushi boat: a wide selection of sushi and tempura presented on an impressive serving boat. Given the size of the restaurant, we have no idea where they have room to store them. In addition to this masterpiece, you order whatever you want on the menu. You will leave beyond satiated.&nbsp; Just a few blocks from the plaza, Praca do Comercio, is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kongveganfood/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Kong - Food Made With Compassion</a>, so it is easy to combine when planning your day. They mostly serve typical Portuguese dishes which have been given a plant-based makeover. Their croquettes and ‘fried egg’ topped seitan steak have tons of table appeal. Make sure to leave room for dessert though.&nbsp; <h2>The sweet stuff</h2>If you are partial to a sugary treat, then there are two bakeries you must visit.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vegannata.pt/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Vegan Nata</a> specialises in vegan custard tarts. The original <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pastel_de_nata" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pastel de Nata</a> is native to Portugal and was first created by monks using eggs in the early 1800s. The Vegan Nata founders wanted to prove that vegan food can be tasty and they have succeeded. It makes for the perfect mid-morning snack with a side of coffee. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/scoopndough/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Scoop n Dough</a> does what it says on the tin. Given its prime central location, it is easy to find and get to. With a wide selection of mouthwatering ice cream and delectable doughnuts, one visit is not enough. We went several times and on the first occasion, we had to seek confirmation that everything was indeed vegan. Every visit after, we observed new customers arrive and ask the same question as they, also, could not believe it was possible. We could not get enough of the chocolate truffle doughnut or raspberry crumble ice cream. Do grace them with your presence and indulge. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1691096565/Image_1_59_pic_1_2147773529.png" alt="Vegan doughnut oozing with chocolate from Scoop n Dough in Lisbon"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/scoopndough.pt" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Scoop n Dough</a> <h2>Bars with a difference</h2><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebotanicalden/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Botanical Den</a> can be found in one of the craziest nightlife areas in the city: Bairro Alto. This means it is open late for all your cocktail and burger needs. They use Beyond patties and serve other snacks, including vegan hot dogs, hummus and guacamole. We had a very brief chat with the affable owner who expressed his passion for setting up and running an ethical business. This is an added bonus to the tasty food and drinks, so do support them if you are in the city. For a destination with a more unusual past, visit <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pensaoamor/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Pensao Amor</a>. This luxurious bar and hotel has many rooms with varied décor, all with a nod to its past. The building used to house a very popular brothel and it continues to attract people from far and wide to enjoy a different kind of pleasure late into the night. Go, drink and enjoy the entertainment or simply relax and soak up the ambience. <h2>What to do in Lisbon as a tourist</h2>If a big plaza is your thing, Lisbon will not disappoint. Facing the harbour in the heart of the city is the <a href="https://lisbonlisboaportugal.com/Baixa-Lisbon/praca-do-comercio-lisbon-portugal-guide.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Praca do Comercio</a>. Located where the Royal Palace used to be before the earthquake of 1755, this grand open space is surrounded by yellow buildings typical of Portugal. There are many fine viewpoints across Lisbon, but one of the best can be found at the <a href="https://lisbonlisboaportugal.com/Baixa-Lisbon/Elevador-Santa-Justa-Lisbon-elevator-lift-guide.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Santa Justa Elevator</a>. This magnificent wrought iron structure is officially part of the public transport system but is actually more of a tourist attraction. Find it in central Lisbon and access it from the ground floor or the hill, if you are feeling fit, as an adjoining bridge connects to it. When visiting, you must experience a ride on one of the many old-style trams - <a href="https://lisbonlisboaportugal.com/lisbon-transport/lisbon-tram-28.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Tram 28</a> is a popular choice. It weaves through the downtown before heading west, taking in many more of the city's highlights, including <a href="https://lisbonlisboaportugal.com/lisbon-sights/estrela-basilica-lisbon.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Basilica da Estrela</a>, <a href="https://stoantoniolisboa.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Church of Santo Antonio</a> and <a href="http://castelodesaojorge.pt/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sao Jorge's Castle</a>.&nbsp; <h2>Escape from the city centre</h2>Like any respectable tourist city, Lisbon has a number of hop-on hop-off bus options. There are so many places to visit beyond the city centre and these buses make them super accessible. The added benefit is the audio guide as you ride, so you get to know a little more about the city’s rich history. First on your list should be the <a href="https://torrebelem.com/en/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Belem Tower</a>. This fortress, at the entrance to the Tagus River, was built in the 16th century to bolster the existing defences. The impressive architecture sits, resplendent and isolated, against a backdrop of sky and water. It is picture postcard stunning.&nbsp;&nbsp; Relatively close to the tower is the spectacular <a href="https://www.patrimoniocultural.gov.pt/pt/museus-e-monumentos/dgpc/m/mosteiro-dos-jeronimos/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Jeronimos Monastery</a>. Built in the 16th century, it is now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most popular attractions in Lisbon, so plan ahead and expect to queue. A little further afield, at nearly 30 km, is <a href="https://www.sintra-portugal.com/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sintra</a>. Filled to the brim with majestic palaces, splendid villas, an abandoned castle and hidden gardens, it is worth the trek. You could make your own way there by car or train but you may find it easier to book one of the many day trip tours that are available. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1691096834/Image_2_6_pic2_25498e98bc.png" alt="Brightly coloured buildings in Sintra in the Lisbon region in Portugal"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/beige-and-pink-castle-1547735/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Daniel Frese/Pexels</a> <h2>Bonus vegan discovery</h2>In a world with the internet, finding and purchasing vegan-friendly products is easier than ever. However, there is nothing quite like being able to see, touch and feel items of interest in the real world. Therefore, we were thrilled to stumble across the eco-vegan store,<a href="https://instagram.com/sapatoverde?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://instagram.com/sapatoverde?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Sapato Verde</a>. They stock everything a self-respecting vegan may need: shoes, clothing, bags, toiletries and even companion animal accessories.&nbsp;Further elevating our excitement was the addition of the<a href="https://www.instagram.com/greenbeans_vegan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/greenbeans_vegan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Green Bean</a> café and grocery store at the back of the shop. If you were to consider what a vegan utopia would consist of, this would be it, and it is the work of a husband-and-wife vegan power couple. Grab a toastie and a pair of shoes the next time you visit. Looking to do more vegan travel in Europe? Check out our guide to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/the-inside-scoop-on-palma-de-mallorca-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Palma de Mallorca</a> or venture to rural France for a stay at <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/longing-for-a-luxurious-vegan-holiday-head-to-la-cour-de-husson" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">La Cour de Husson</a>.

Two of Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams travelling besides one another

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Discovering the secrets of Lisbon as a vegan tourist

On Gloucester Road, home to some of Bristol’s coolest restaurants, pubs and vintage shops is where you’ll find some of the best falafels in Bristol, in a vegan café named no other than <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jackthefalafel/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Jack the Falafel</a>.&nbsp; With its welcoming wooden exterior and bench outside the front, the café is in a sunny spot, so it’s perfect if you want to sit and enjoy the outside seating on the bustling Gloucester Road.&nbsp; We chose to sit inside under all the plants and take a look at their extensive menu, displayed on the chalkboard and available on the counter to take back to your table. After feeling torn between all the delicious dishes, we asked the waiter, Billy, what he recommended.&nbsp; He suggested the jackfruit dishes and gave us a sample to try. Sweet, spicy with a barbeque flavour, it was utterly delicious, and made us more intrigued about the other dishes, setting the bar high for the rest of the menu.&nbsp; <h2>Delicious drinks&nbsp;</h2>For drinks, we settled on the intriguing Butterfly Pea latte and the tempting apple, cinnamon and fresh ginger juice. Whilst we would usually opt for an oat milk coffee, the butterfly pea latte charmed us, and we were eager to try it! Although slightly apprehensive about pea milk, the latte was deliciously sweet and light with a fantastic blue colour. The fresh juice was satisfyingly punchy with its ginger flavour and beautiful cinnamon tones, the perfect palate cleanser before the food.&nbsp; <h2>Mesmerising mains</h2>On to mains! Finally deciding on the vegan pancakes with almond butter and the aubergine parmigiana, we opted for a sweet and a savoury dish. The food arrived very quickly and was beautifully presented! The aubergine parmigiana was served on a huge plate filled with an array of vibrant salads, very Instagrammable! Layers of slow-baked aubergine topped with cheesy vegan parmesan, the dish was spicy, smoky and very filling. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1690638391/Image_1_26_a56e1353be.png" alt="Aubergiene Parmigiana from Jack the Falafel">Róisín Hamilton﻿The banquet of sides was mesmerising, offering tangy sauerkraut, fluffy couscous, crunchy red cabbage and carrot, a mixed salad and a grilled flatbread, all drizzled with a sweet beetroot sauce. This dish was a real show-stopper! The flatbread was perfect to dip in the parmigiana and the sauerkraut was a stand-out addition to the other salads.&nbsp; The pancakes were charmingly presented, topped with kiwis, strawberries, apples, grapes, almond butter, chocolate sauce, vegan whipped cream and sprinkled with coconut. They were fluffy and light - the nutty and fruity flavours complemented each other extremely well. The perfect breakfast or dessert option. Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the falafels, and they were delicious. Served with vibrant yellow hummus, green olives, and beetroot sauce, they were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, lightly spiced with coriander flavours. The hummus was silky and a perfect duo with the falafels.&nbsp; A fellow customer recommended that we try the cakes and the hot chocolate so we will definitely be back.&nbsp; If you’re looking to sample these legendary falafels for yourself, or perhaps the fruity pancakes, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jackthefalafel/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Jack the Falafel</a> offers a huge menu of delicious dishes to try, or you can order in by using <a href="https://wearefoodstuff.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Foodstuff</a>; they are also on <a href="https://www.toogoodtogo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Too Good To Go</a>. If you’re a vegan foodie who wants to sample what Bristol’s food scene has to offer, be sure to check out the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/best-vegan-restaurants-in-bristol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">best vegan restaurants in Bristol</a>. Or maybe you fancy a tipple? If so, our guide to <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/where-to-go-for-vegan-cocktails-in-bristol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">where to go for vegan cocktails in Bristol </a>shouldn’t be missed.

Falafels in a brown bowl from Jack the Falafel 

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Jack the Falafel: Delicious lunch spot in Bristol

Insects. Love them or hate them, they are truly fascinating creatures. From Leaf Cutter Ants to Hammerhead Worms, Elephant Hawk Moths, Goliath Beetles and the utterly astounding Creatonotos Gambis, there is a seemingly endless array of weird and wonderful insect life to discover on planet Earth. Or, at least… there was. Sadly, recent studies have shown that in the past two decades, <a href="https://www.essexwt.org.uk/news/bugs-matter-survey-finds-70-decrease-insects-less-20-years" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">we have lost nearly 70% of insect life in the UK</a>, with many species facing the threat of extinction, resulting in a potential insect apocalypse if we do not adapt to a bug-friendly way of living. The biggest threat that insects face is a combination of habitat loss caused primarily by agriculture and urban development, coupled with pesticide use and intensive agricultural methods (such as harmful fertilisers, and over-ploughing, degrading the quality of soil etc) resulting in a <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/save-the-earth-the-biodiversity-crisis-nobody-is-talking-about" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">biodiversity crisis</a>. The UK was once home to an array of abundant wildlife, but as we continue to sacrifice woodlands, peat bogs, meadows and waterways in the name of profit and growth, we’re leaving less of the countryside habitable for non-human life. That being said, it’s not all doom and gloom; there are many insect species that we feel drawn to, and wish to protect. Gone are the days of hoovering a house spider, or swatting away a honeybee.&nbsp; In fact, the urgency to save pollinating insects, such as bees, has resulted in communities across the globe joining together to try and save them. Most households recognise the importance of how to save the bees, but what about the lesser-known insects? Do we deem these creatures not worthy of saving due to their ‘creepy-crawly’ appearance? Or, is what lies beneath the surface, equally as important as what hovers, flies and buzzes above it? Recent studies show that some <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/269127401_Similarities_and_Differences_between_Humans'_and_Social_Insects'_Building_Processes_and_Building_Behaviors" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">insects lead lives not too dissimilar to our own</a>. From an ethical perspective, it’s imperative that we try to help them. Ethics aside, insects are the very foundation that our planet's ecosystems depend on. They fertilise our soil, decompose our dead, pollinate our crops and provide a source of food for birds and mammals across the globe. Put simply, if an insect apocalypse were to play out, we would soon perish alongside them. Our world could not sustain life as we know it without an abundance of insect life both above, within and upon the soil. So what can we do to help these small, yet fascinating and vital creatures that hold our ecosystems together? If you have access to a green space or garden, you hold an exciting opportunity to give struggling insects a safe space to take shelter, feed, procreate and raise their young. Top of the list could be creating a bug hotel. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thewildlifetrusts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Wildlife Trusts</a> provide a fantastic guide on <a href="https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/actions/how-build-bug-mansion" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">how to make a bug mansion</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/woodlandtrust/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Woodland Trust</a> has a great list of <a href="https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2019/09/how-to-build-a-bug-hotel/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">bug hotel ideas</a> too. Bug hotels are easy to make, and great fun to create, especially if you have children that want to join in. Familiarising children with insects and teaching them to appreciate, rather than fear them, is also crucial to a behavioural shift within society towards insect life. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/v-land/image/upload/v1690636279/Image_1_58_5671a10ff8.png" alt="A bug hotel made from wood, bricks and natural materials">Johnatapw/Getty Images Another helpful tool to help British bug life is available via <a href="https://www.instagram.com/buglife_ict/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Bug Life</a>’s splatometer app. The innovative <a href="https://www.buglife.org.uk/get-involved/surveys/bugs-matter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">free app</a> is simple to use, and helps wildlife organisations better understand how insect populations are faring. Users simply need to take a picture of their number plate before and after a journey, then upload the images to the app, which is based on the ‘windscreen phenomenon’, a term given to the observation that people tend to find fewer insects squashed on the windscreens of their cars compared to previous years.&nbsp; If you have time for a more hands-on approach within your local area, there are endless wildlife charities and community groups looking for volunteers to help wildlife. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/savebutterflies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">The Butterfly Conservation</a> is restoring depleted peatlands, with the initiative aptly named the <a href="https://butterfly-conservation.org/bogsquad" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72); background-color: transparent;">Bog Squad</a>, and multiple <a href="https://www.thecrt.co.uk/listing/category/volunteer?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8NilBhDOARIsAHzpbLB0sU6KURNH0ij6Zr3EQL81eLTMAEmyC9UlY6qEnOR0q-AeBOW9mrwaAjQSEALw_wcB" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">wildlife groups are recruiting volunteers</a> for tree planting and wildlife conservation.&nbsp; Another ray of light for British bugs lies in rewilding. From participating in <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/no-mow-may-help-nature-this-earth-day-and-let-it-grow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">No Mow May</a> to donating to rewilding charities, there is an urgently needed transition to help restore nature's balance, for insects, animals, and humans on a global scale. And thankfully, there are a rising number of rewilding projects focused on restoring plots of land and returning them to nature.&nbsp; In the UK, inspirational not-for-profit the <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/rewilding-in-the-uk-with-vegan-land-movement" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">Vegan Land Movement</a> have recently acquired their <a href="https://globalvegancrowdfunder.org/vegan-land-movement-animal-agriculture-land-buyout/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">fifth parcel of land to rewild</a> and help struggling species. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/globalvegancrowdfunder/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">VLM</a> acquires auctioned land previously used within animal agriculture and restores it solely for wildlife. Their mission to save land and species comes at a crucial time, and <a href="https://globalvegancrowdfunder.org/dairylandbuyout6/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">donations are welcome via their website</a>. Is an insect apocalypse foreseeable? If we do not change our ways, it is possible. Is an insect apocalypse preventable? If we become bug-friendly, most definitely! What action will you take to help the tiny creatures our planet depends on?&nbsp; For more ways to help out our insect friends, check out <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/5-ways-to-help-save-the-bees-this-world-bee-day-and-bee-yond" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">5 ways to help save the bees</a>, and encourage biodiversity in your garden with <a href="https://www.v-landuk.com/article/veganic-gardening-save-the-planet-with-green-manure" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(75, 172, 72);">veganic gardening</a>.

Brightly coloured large beetle on a large green leaf