From boosting energy levels to supporting heart health, our environment, and saving animals, we have delved into the transformative effects of plant-powered nutrition in our previous blogs.

Our journey into the realm of vegan delights is not just about what's on your plate. It is about the story behind each ingredient and the positive ripple effect it creates and impacts other's plates, too.

Food and nutrition insecurity remains a significant concern in some countries, especially after the pandemic breakout and induced changes in the agri-food sector.

Food choice has often been a fundamental expression of what people believe in and who we are. Age, level of education, religious beliefs, social environment, monthly income, awareness of the costs generated by each diet, and perception of the consumption of animal products, meat, and fish significantly influence diet choice.

Have you ever thought about what effect being vegan has on people’s social interactions? How do people conceptualize the effects of veganism on their social lives?

The first question addresses the way they are being treated, the way they are perceived, and the social groups they make. The second question seeks to understand how people feel about these changes in their lives and how they internalize their changing social lives— either negatively or positively—can change their social lives just as much as external factors.

Let’s delve in deeper…

The people we associate with have a powerful effect on our dietary choices because people tend to mimic the eating behaviors of family, friends, and co-workers. It impacts food choices and highly controls a person's dietary behaviors, whether the person is influenced directly or indirectly. Some of the examples are -

Family and peer influence: If a person is surrounded by friends or family members who follow a vegan lifestyle, they may be more likely to adopt similar practices due to social influence and a desire to fit in. For example, in households where parents consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, the children are more likely to adopt the same behavior of eating.

Community influence: In communities where veganism is widely accepted and embraced, individuals may feel more encouraged to make the transition. Vegan communities and organizations provide a sense of belonging for like-minded individuals. Events, gatherings, and online platforms allow vegans to connect and share experiences. It may impact social interactions and relationships.

Influence of Cultural Traditions: The cultural impacts on food choice and preparation techniques are greatly influential on an individual. Evidence has proven that religions, traditions, beliefs, and values are among the most dominant factors for food preference, mode of food preparations, and nutritional status.

Indeed, certain spiritual and ancestral practices prohibit the consumption of certain food products. These prohibitions may be general or limited to specific days of the week or particular occasions, which gradually influence the individual’s diet.

For example, in a culture where plant-based diets are traditional or have a rich history of vegetarian or vegan cuisine, individuals may find it easier to adopt veganism. Conversely, in cultures where meat consumption is deeply ingrained, then there might be resistance or challenges in embracing a vegan lifestyle.

Veganism intersects with cultural norms and traditions. Some cultures have a strong connection to plant-based diets, while others may have traditional dishes centered around animal products. Veganism can challenge or coexist with these cultural norms.

Influence of Religious Beliefs: Some religious traditions advocate for vegetarianism or have specific guidelines regarding the treatment of animals, which may encourage followers to adopt a vegan lifestyle. For example, Jainism is a religion that strongly advocates for non-violence (ahimsa) and places a significant emphasis on compassion and respect for all living beings. And this principle extends to their dietary choices. As a result, many Jains follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet.

Influence of Education and Awareness: People who are educated and hold knowledge on the topic of a healthy diet and are health conscious; are more likely to engage in healthy eating behaviours and perhaps live a healthier physical lifestyle.

Similarly, societal awareness and education about the environmental, ethical, and health implications of animal agriculture can significantly impact attitudes towards veganism. Increased knowledge about the consequences of meat consumption may lead more people to adopt a vegan lifestyle.

Through education and awareness, we can make people concerned about environmental issues, such as climate change and deforestation, which may lead them to adopt a vegan lifestyle as a way to reduce their ecological footprint.

Influence of Celebrities and Media: Famous people and athletes often serve as inspiring popular role models due to their impressive career achievements. When such famous or high-achieving people turn out to be vegans, it contributes to the popularity of veganism.

 A positive interpretation of veganism in the media may inspire individuals to explore plant-based diets as a trendy or aspiring lifestyle choice.

Understanding these socio-cultural aspects helps to appreciate the diverse motivations behind veganism and how it impacts individuals and society as a whole.

However, the strong association with vegan consumption and values for some means that this change may not be as easy as it seems. A complete change may require the adoption of a new lifestyle or identity, and people may not be in a position to do this freely and may require. However, it is essential to recognize that veganism is not a monolithic movement, and individuals may embrace it for various reasons.

Veganism is not just a food ethic but a special form of social justice that tries to solve the problems of environmental pollution, animals’ rights, food security, and sustainable planet.

We would like to sum up this factor with a great saying -

"In a world where choices shape cultures and cultures shape change, adopting a vegan lifestyle becomes not just a personal preference but a powerful catalyst for a more compassionate, sustainable, and harmonious society. Let's redefine the future, one plant-based plate at a time."