The plant-based problem is complicated. Granted, the following is Brit-centric (so am I), but the issues are in all likelihood universal. There is no paywall at The Guardian, so feel free to indulge.
The plant-based problem: why vegan restaurants are closing – or adding meat to the menu, by Isobel Lewis (The Guardian)
There seem to be two popular theories as to why so many apparently successful plant-based restaurants are closing. Some argue that the hospitality industry as a whole is struggling; others say that the never-ending, oversimplified discourse about protein and ultra-processed foods has driven people away from veganism. Given the volume of chatter about the carnivore diet and the myriad myths concerning plant-based eating – that it is impossible to build muscle as a vegan, that plant milk is always bad for you, that kids should never be fed a vegan diet – the idea that people are forsaking veganism is understandable.
But, despite the negativity, interest in veganism is still on the rise, with environmental and health concerns now considered more significant contributing factors to giving up animal products than animal welfare. According to Damian Watson from the Vegan Society, about 2 million Britons now identify as vegan or follow a plant-based diet (vegans usually referencing the philosophy, while for those on a plant-based diet it is more about the diet itself).
If you’re curious about the Vegan Society in the UK, which was founded all the way back in 1944, here’s the mission statement (of sorts).
The Vegan Society continues to hold true to the vision of our founding members as we work towards a world in which humans do not exploit other animals. We’re as determined as ever to promote vegan lifestyles for the benefit of animals, people and the environment.
Regrettably, humans seem forever eager to exploit other humans — but let’s leave _______ out of it.
(How’s that for self-censorship?)
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“Edibles & Potables” is Food & Dining Magazine’s Sunday slot for news and views that range beyond our customary metropolitan Louisville coverage area, as intended to be food (and drink) for thought.
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