As the world grapples with the urgent need to address climate change, the spotlight is increasingly turning to the food sector, particularly meat production, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. A new report suggests that the lessons learned from the clean energy sector could be pivotal in transforming our food systems. In 2020, the Department of Energy invested approximately $8.4 billion in renewable and clean power technologies, catalyzing a substantial increase in solar and wind power capacity over the subsequent years. However, government investments in food technology have lagged significantly behind. Researchers found that investments in energy innovation outpaced those in food technologies by a factor of 49, despite the substantial climate pollution caused by food, especially beef. To address the emissions from food, which constitute 10 percent of all U.S. emissions and more than a quarter of global emissions, deeper public investment in food system innovation …
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In today's consumer-driven world, many individuals are becoming increasingly aware of the ethical implications of their food choices, particularly concerning animal products. The harsh realities faced by animals in agricultural facilities—ranging from overcrowded conditions and painful procedures to premature slaughter—have prompted a significant number of consumers to seek out products that promise humane and ethical treatment. However, the labels on these products, designed to guide conscientious buyers, often obscure the grim truths of standard industry practices. This article delves into the complexities and often misleading nature of labels such as “humanely raised,” “cage-free,” and “natural.” It examines how the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) approves these claims and highlights the significant gaps between consumer perceptions and the actual conditions animals endure. By exploring the definitions and standards—or lack thereof—behind these labels, the article sheds light on the reality that many so-called humane practices fall short of genuine animal …
Need some meal inspiration to liven up the kids’ lunchboxes? Look no further! Our favorite vegan packed lunches are here to save the day. Whether you’ve just finished sorting out uniforms, stationery, and school shoes, or you’re simply looking for new ways to keep your children excited about their meals, we’ve got you covered. From bento boxes packed with variety to tasty tacos and wraps, these vegan lunch ideas are sure to treat your kids’ taste buds and keep them satisfied throughout the school day. Dive in and discover how to make lunchtime a fun and nutritious experience for your little ones! Need some meal inspo to liven up the kids’ lunchboxes? Check out our favourite vegan packed lunches. Image Credit: AdobeStock Now that you’ve finally sorted uniforms, stationery and school shoes, it’s time to start thinking about what the kids will eat for lunch! Whether you’re prepping lunches for …
In a world increasingly conscious of dietary choices and their broader implications, a fascinating study has emerged exploring the link between what we eat and how we behave towards others. Conducted by researchers Lamy, Fischer-Lokou, Guegan, and Gueguen, and summarized by Aeneas Koosis, this series of field experiments in France delves into how proximity to vegan versus butcher shops influences people's willingness to engage in acts of kindness. Over four distinct studies, the researchers found compelling evidence that individuals near vegan shops exhibited greater prosocial behavior compared to those near butcher shops. This article unpacks these findings, examining the potential psychological mechanisms at play and what they reveal about the intersection of diet and human values. Summary By: Aeneas Koosis | Original Study By: Lamy, L., Fischer-Lokou, J., Guegan, J., & Gueguen, N. (2019) | Published: August 14, 2024Across four field experiments in France, individuals near vegan shops consistently showed …
In the heart of Stuttgart, a dedicated group of animal rights activists has been tirelessly working to bring attention to the plight of animals destined for slaughter. Four years ago, the Animal Save Movement in Stuttgart was revitalized by a committed group of seven individuals, led by Viola Kaiser and Sonja Böhm. These activists organize regular vigils outside the SlaufenFleisch slaughterhouse in Goeppingen, bearing witness to the suffering of animals and documenting their final moments. Their efforts are not just about raising awareness but also about reinforcing their personal commitment to veganism and animal rights activism. Viola and Sonja, both full-time workers, prioritize their time to hold these vigils, despite the emotional toll it takes on them. They find strength in their small, close-knit group and the transformative experience of bearing witness. Their dedication has led to viral social media content, reaching millions and spreading their message far and wide. …
Jordi Casamitjana, the vegan advocate who successfully championed the legal protection of ethical vegans in the UK, delves into the contentious issue of veganphobia to determine its legitimacy. Since his landmark legal case in 2020, which resulted in ethical veganism being recognized as a protected philosophical belief under the Equality Act 2010, Casamitjana's name has frequently been associated with the term "veganphobia." This phenomenon, often highlighted by journalists, raises questions about whether an aversion or hostility towards vegans is a real and pervasive issue. Casamitjana's investigation is prompted by various media reports and personal experiences that suggest a pattern of discrimination and hostility towards vegans. For instance, articles from INews and The Times have discussed the rising instances of "veganphobia" and the need for legal protections akin to those against religious discrimination. Moreover, statistical data from police forces across the UK indicates a notable number of crimes against vegans, further …
Salmon has long been celebrated as a nutritional powerhouse, touted for its rich Omega-3 fatty acids and heart-healthy benefits. However, the reality of salmon's health credentials may not be as rosy as commonly believed. Increasingly, the salmon available on our plates comes from farms rather than the wild, a shift driven by overfishing and environmental degradation. This transition to aquaculture has its own set of problems, including pollution, disease transmission to wild fish populations, and the ethical concerns of farming practices. Moreover, recent studies indicate that farmed salmon might not be as nutritious as once thought, raising questions about its role in a healthy diet. This article delves into the complexities of salmon farming, the nutritional downsides of consuming farmed fish, and the broader implications for both human health and the environment. Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash Salmon Is Probably Not as Healthy as You Think August 9, 2024 Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash …
Jeremy Beckham remembers the announcement coming over his middle school’s PA system in the winter of 1999: Everyone was to stay in their classrooms because there was an intrusion on campus. A day after the brief lockdown was lifted at Eisenhower Junior High School just outside Salt Lake City, rumors were swirling. Supposedly, someone from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) had, like a pirate claiming a captured ship, climbed the school flagpole and cut down the McDonald’s flag that had been flying there just under Old Glory. The animal rights group was indeed protesting across the street from the public school over its acceptance of a sponsorship from a fast food giant perhaps more responsible than any other for getting generations of Americans hooked on cheap, factory-farmed meat. According to court documents, two people had unsuccessfully tried to take down the flag, though it’s unclear whether they …
For decades, the animal agriculture industry has employed a sophisticated disinformation campaign to sustain the consumption of animal products. This report, summarized by Simon Zschieschang and based on a study by Carter (2024), delves into the tactics used by the industry and proposes solutions to counteract these deceptive practices. Disinformation, distinct from misinformation by its deliberate intent to deceive, has become a significant issue, especially with the rise of social media. The animal agriculture industry has been adept at launching disinformation campaigns to hinder the shift towards plant-based diets. The report outlines the industry’s main strategies, which include denying, derailing, delaying, deflecting, and distracting from the facts about the environmental and health impacts of meat and dairy consumption. Examples of these tactics are plentiful. The industry denies the environmental impact of methane emissions from livestock, derails scientific discussions by introducing unrelated topics, delays action by calling for more research despite …
The consumption of processed meats has long been a topic of health concern, and recent findings have added a new dimension to the discussion. A comprehensive study unveiled at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference has revealed a significant link between processed red meat and an increased risk of dementia. The research, which spanned over four decades and involved 130,000 nurses and other U.S. healthcare professionals, underscores the potential cognitive benefits of dietary changes. By substituting processed red meats like bacon, hotdogs, sausages, and salami with healthier alternatives such as nuts, legumes, or tofu, individuals may significantly reduce their risk of developing dementia. This study not only highlights the long-term health implications of dietary choices but also provides actionable insights for mitigating the risk of cognitive decline. Recent research provides further insights into the negative impacts of processed meat. A comprehensive study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference found that …
