Blogs

In the intricate web of modern animal agriculture, two potent tools—antibiotics and hormones—are wielded with alarming frequency and often with little public awareness. Jordi Casamitjana, the author of "Ethical Vegan," delves into the pervasive use of these substances in his article, "Antibiotics & Hormones: The Hidden Abuse in Animal Farming." Casamitjana's exploration reveals a troubling narrative: the widespread and often indiscriminate use of antibiotics and hormones in animal farming not only impacts the animals themselves but also poses significant risks to human health and the environment. Growing up in the 60s and 70s, Casamitjana recounts his personal experiences with antibiotics, a class of drugs that have been both a medical marvel and a source of growing concern. He highlights how these life-saving medicines, discovered in the 1920s, have been overused to the point where their efficacy is now threatened by the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria—a crisis exacerbated by their extensive …

In the early 20th century, Upton Sinclair's undercover investigation of Chicago’s meatpacking plants revealed shocking health and labor violations, leading to significant legislative reforms such as the Federal Meat Inspection Act of 1906. Fast forward to today, and the landscape for investigative journalism in the agricultural sector has dramatically shifted. The emergence of "ag-gag" laws across the United States poses a formidable challenge to journalists and activists who seek to expose the often hidden realities of factory farms and slaughterhouses. Ag-gag laws, designed to prohibit unauthorized filming and documentation within agricultural facilities, have sparked a contentious debate about transparency, animal welfare, food safety, and the rights of whistleblowers. These laws typically criminalize the use of deception to gain access to such facilities and the act of filming or photographing without the owner's consent. Critics argue that these laws not only infringe on First Amendment rights but also hinder efforts to …

Motherhood is a universal experience that transcends species, and cows are no exception. In fact, these gentle giants exhibit some of the most profound maternal behaviors in the animal kingdom. At Farm Sanctuary, where cows are given the freedom to nurture and bond with their calves, we witness daily the extraordinary lengths to which these mothers go to care for their young. This article, "7 Reasons Cows Make the Best Moms," delves into the heartwarming and often surprising ways cows demonstrate their maternal instincts. From forming lifelong bonds with their calves to adopting orphans and protecting their herd, cows embody the essence of nurturing. Join us as we explore these seven compelling reasons that make cows exemplary mothers, celebrating the remarkable stories of maternal love and resilience, like that of Liberty cow and her calf Indigo. Motherhood is a universal experience that transcends species, and cows are no exception. In …

In the complex and often controversial realm of animal agriculture, the focus typically gravitates towards the more prominent victims—cows, pigs, chickens, and other familiar livestock. Yet, there exists a lesser-known, equally disturbing aspect of this industry: rodent farming. Jordi Casamitjana, the author of "Ethical Vegan," ventures into this overlooked territory, illuminating the exploitation of these small, sentient beings. Casamitjana's exploration begins with a personal story, recounting his peaceful coexistence with a wild house mouse in his London apartment. This seemingly trivial interaction reveals a deep respect for the autonomy and right to life of all creatures, regardless of their size or societal status. This respect starkly contrasts with the grim realities faced by many rodents who are not as fortunate as his tiny flatmate. The article delves into the various species of rodents subjected to farming, such as guinea pigs, chinchillas, and bamboo rats. Each section meticulously outlines the natural …

In a world where the ethical implications of our dietary choices are increasingly scrutinized, Jordi Casamitjana, author of the book "Ethical Vegan," offers a compelling solution to a common refrain among meat lovers: "I like the taste of meat." This article, "The Ultimate Vegan Fix for Meat Lovers," delves into the intricate relationship between taste and ethics, challenging the notion that taste preferences should dictate our food choices, especially when they come at the cost of animal suffering. Casamitjana begins by recounting his personal journey with taste, from his initial aversion to bitter foods like tonic water and beer to his eventual appreciation for them. This evolution highlights a fundamental truth: taste is not static but changes over time and is influenced by both genetic and learned components. By examining the science behind taste, he debunks the myth that our current preferences are immutable, suggesting that what we enjoy eating …

The conservation of aquatic animals hinges on a nuanced balance of scientific research, advocacy, and societal values. This article examines how factors like agency, sentience, and cognition shape protection efforts for species such as cetaceans, octopuses, and tuna. Drawing on insights from Jamieson and Jacquet’s 2023 study, it highlights disparities in conservation priorities driven by cultural attitudes and human perceptions. By exploring the influence of scientific evidence alongside advocacy movements and public sentiment, this analysis offers fresh perspectives for improving marine species welfare

In an era where climate change headlines often paint a grim picture of our planet's future, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless. However, the choices we make every day, particularly regarding the food we consume, can have a significant impact on the environment. Among these choices, meat consumption stands out as a major contributor to environmental degradation and climate change. Despite its popularity and cultural significance worldwide, the production and consumption of meat come with a hefty environmental price tag. Research indicates that meat is responsible for between 11 and 20 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, and it places a continuous strain on our planet's water and land resources. To mitigate the effects of global warming, climate models suggest that we must reevaluate our relationship with meat. This article delves into the intricate workings of the meat industry and its far-reaching impacts on the environment. From the staggering …

Experience the ultimate fusion of flavours with Berry-Ginger Vegan Muffins—an irresistible plant-based treat that combines juicy blueberries, sweet strawberries, and warming ginger in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or sharing with friends, these fluffy muffins are quick to prepare and topped with a golden sugar-cinnamon crunch for added texture and taste. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or just exploring plant-based recipes, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers delicious results in under an hour. Treat yourself to the perfect balance of sweetness and spice today!

In the world of sports, the notion that athletes must consume animal-based protein to achieve peak performance is rapidly becoming a relic of the past. Today, more and more athletes are proving that a plant-based diet can fuel their bodies just as effectively, if not more so, than traditional diets. These plant-powered athletes are not only excelling in their respective sports but are also setting new standards for health, sustainability, and ethical living. In this article, we spotlight five remarkable athletes who have embraced plant-based diets and are thriving in their fields. From Olympic medalists to ultramarathon runners, these individuals demonstrate the incredible potential of plant-based nutrition. Their stories are a testament to the power of plants in promoting health, enhancing performance, and fostering a more sustainable future. Join us as we delve into the journeys of these five plant-powered athlete superstars, exploring how their dietary choices have impacted their …

Empathy is often viewed as a limited resource, but what if showing compassion for animals didn’t conflict with caring for humans? In *”Empathy for Animals: A Win-Win Approach,”* Mona Zahir examines compelling research that redefines how we think about empathy. Drawing on a study published in *The Journal of Social Psychology* by Cameron, Lengieza, and colleagues, the article uncovers how removing the zero-sum framing of empathy can encourage people to extend greater compassion to animals. By exploring cognitive costs and decision-making in empathetic tasks, this research reveals that empathy is far more adaptable than previously thought. These findings offer valuable strategies for animal advocacy efforts while promoting a broader culture of kindness that benefits both humans and animals alike