Starting Vegan

 

Making the jump into veganism may first seem like an unfathomable leap across a vast chasm, the carnivorous crocodiles of our culture and upbringing snapping at your feet below. But with just a little research and a small effort, you’ll be well on your way to making kinder, more sustainable and healthier choices.

 

What do I eat?

• Download HappyCow on your phone. It’s just so worth it. This app uses your location to scout out vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants and stores around you. I’ve used the app all around the world to find delicious vegan food and it’s a good first step to see where around your local area might offer you some options.
   

• My earthly Goddess, Isa Chandra Moskowitz, is an incredible vegan chef and cookbook author. It’s well worth trying to get your hands on one of her books, or you can check out lots of amazing recipes for free on The Post Punk Kitchen.

 

What other things should I look out for?

Industry seems insistent on sneaky animal products into as many things as they can. If you enjoy fashion, make-up and skincare, websites like Ethical Elephant and Cruelty Free Kitty can help you find vegan and cruelty-free options. 

 

How do I keep it up?

Surround yourself with community. Depending on what sort of person you are - there’s a vegan group to match. The lowest points for me in my veganism came when I knew no other vegans and wasn’t involved in any online communities. I felt like I was in a losing battle and taking a solo philosophical stance against the entire world. I went on Facebook and joined every single vegan group I could find and within a week, I felt so relieved. There is more than likely a vegan group in your area.

 

Facebook not your thing? You have excellent taste. Try r/vegan on Reddit, try searching “vegan” on meetup.com for real-life gatherings in your area. Google vegan markets in your area and start a conversation. There’s plenty of ways to find vegan friends, or at least surround yourself with like-minded people.

 

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