World Vegetarian Day on 1st October is the day to celebrate all things vegetarian, and there’s never been a better time to celebrate. Vegetarianism, and in particular veganism, is growing at an unprecedented rate, both in New Zealand and globally.

Vegetarians have a longer average life span and reduced risk of many major illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers. A plant-based diet is much more sustainable than an animal-based diet, and obviously it’s good for the animals.

“I went vegetarian 30 years ago, vegan 12 years ago,” says Stephanie Lane, NZ Vegetarian Society’s National Manager. “It was much harder back then than it is now. Nowadays, there are so many veg~n options in stores and restaurants and it’s such a good feeling knowing animals and the planet are better off for it. My kids and I would hate to live any other way.”

During World Vegetarian Month, the NZ Vegetarian Society will celebrate 75 years of advocating for a plant-based lifestyle and supporting vegetarians. Vegetarianism has come a long way since 1943!

Also on World Vegetarian Day, the top ten entries of the NZ Vegetarian Society’s first THINK KIND school competition will be online and voting for People’s Choice will commence. The entry with the most nationwide votes will win their school the $1000 cash prize! View and vote on www.vegetarian.org.nz.

The NZ Vegetarian Society is the main sponsor of this year’s Vegan Expo in Christchurch held later in October.

For help to go veg, contact the NZ Vegetarian Society. Recipes and information can be found at www.vegetarian.org.nz, email them at info@vegetarian.org.nz or give them a call on 09 523 4686.

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