Welcome

If you’re here, you have probably already decided that animals shouldn’t suffer for your plate — or you’re close. The hard part usually isn’t the why. It’s the how. Will my body get everything it needs? What do I say when my family asks where I get my protein?

This site is about that part. It won’t try to convince you that veganism is healthier, and it won’t argue about the climate. It is here to help you do it well: to stay healthy and well fed, and to stay calm and close with the people around you.

What veganism is

The Vegan Society, the organisation that coined the word, defines veganism as

“a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude — as far as is possible and practicable — all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose”

Read the full definition at The Vegan Society.

What that means in practice

Notice the words possible and practicable. Veganism is not a purity test. It means not using animals wherever you reasonably can avoid it: in food, clothes, cosmetics and entertainment. A medicine you need, an ingredient you missed on a label, a world that isn’t built for it yet — none of that makes you “not vegan”. You do what you can, and you keep learning.

What veganism is not

It is not a diet for your health

Some people eat plant-based food for their health, and that’s fine. But veganism is about the animals. Health matters on this site because staying well is what lets you keep going — not because it is the reason.

It is not being picky

A picky eater doesn’t like how something tastes. A vegan can love the taste of cheese and still say no, because of what it costs someone else. It is an ethical position, not a preference.

It is not a mission to rescue every animal

Vegans aren’t claiming to save all animals, and you haven’t failed if you can’t. Veganism is about not taking part in using them. Whatever you choose to do on top of that is up to you.

It is not a risk to your health — if you plan it

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest organisation of nutrition professionals in the United States, states that appropriately planned vegan diets are nutritionally adequate and appropriate for every stage of life. The key word is planned — and that is what most of this site is for.

It is not a judgement of the people you love

You can be vegan and still love people who aren’t. Most of us weren’t vegan once either. This site has a whole section on keeping your relationships warm while your plate changes.

Where to start

• Vitamin B12 — the supplement every vegan needs. Start here.
• Nutrition — the essentials first, then a page per nutrient.
• Questions — answers to what family and friends ask.
• Social life — dinners, holidays and the people you love.