Nadia Murray-Ragg, Author at LIVEKINDLY

Vegans Want People to Watch What The Health So Bad They’re Making Street Art About It

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 27, 2018

Everyday vegan activists have taken to the streets to promote the plant-based lifestyle. However, rather than protesting, they’re expressing a modern cruelty-free message through street art. Dubbed the “Vegan Chalk Challenge,” people are getting involved in the plant-based movement by writing and drawing on streets. Kathy Martin is one of such street activism artists. She recently chalked two streets with the message, “Watch ‘What The Health’ on Netflix,” to show her support for the film and engage others. Her efforts were posted to the Instagram account, Vegan Chalk Challenge. “What The Health” is a highly-praised film that has inspired a large...

Red Meat Gets Its Bright Color From Carmine Found in Beetle Shells

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 27, 2018

Carmine, an extract made from beetle shells, is added to red and processed meats to give the foods a “healthy” reddish hue. Nathalie Pauleau, the category manager of natural colourants at Naturex told Food Navigator that carmine is the most common ingredient used to give conventional meat products a strong red blood color. Without this additive, meat can often take on more brown tones as the animal flesh begins to decompose. When reading labels, carmine won’t often be noted explicitly (or explain that it’s produced from the extract of beetles even if it is added to labels). The additive...

Taipei’s Last Snake Meat Restaurant Closes Amid Public Concern for Wildlife Protection

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 26, 2018

Taipei’s last remaining snake meat restaurant has shut its doors for the last time amid a growing public awareness for wildlife protection and its importance, according to owner Kuo Yi-chien. Located in the Taiwanese city’s Huaxi Street Night Market that was once colloquially dubbed “Snake Alley,” The Asia Snake Meat Store was loved by locals and tourists alike for its live slaughter of snakes before cooking hundreds of the reptiles daily. The store also gained a reputation for keeping a snake-catching orangutan captive — for some this was met with outrage and concern for the animal’s welfare, while others...

Researchers Make Breakthrough Discovery With Plant-Based B12

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 26, 2018

A team of scientists at the University of Kent have made a breakthrough discovery in plant-based vitamin B12 absorption, says a paper published in the journal Cell Chemical Biology. Vitamin B12 (scientifically referred to as “cobalamin”) is predominantly unable to be absorbed or produced by most plants, therefore people eating a plant-based diet are advised to supplement the essential nutrient. However, the team under guidance from Professor Martin Warren at the University’s School of Biosciences, alongside year 11 and 12 students at Sir Roger Manwood’s School in Sandwich have successfully grown common garden cress seedlings that absorb cobalamin. According...

Rebbl Fights Human Trafficking and the ‘Malfunctioning’ Global Food System With Dairy-Free Drinks

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 26, 2018

Herb-infused beverage manufacturer REBBL is using its range of dairy-free drinks to raise awareness about human trafficking. “It is our calling to fight human trafficking through impact sourcing and supply chain in partnership with the non-profit Not For Sale. In doing so, we must address climate change, which is inextricably linked to human trafficking,” REBBL’s website states. “This helps to protect vulnerable communities from ever being trafficked. In addition, we donate 2.5% of the net sales of every bottle sold to Not For Sale to rehabilitate those who’ve already been affected.” Human trafficking -also referred to as modern slavery...

People Love Seitan So Much, the Global Wheat Market is Soaring

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 25, 2018

People are eating so much plant-based protein that the global wheat market value is rising, says a new analysis report. The new report details the fair forecasted growth of the global wheat market between the years 2017-2023. The report analyzes the wheat market in country sections (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Rest of the World) and is also segmented into type, application, and form. It noted that North America is leading the wheat market, followed by Europe. Companies producing plant-based protein products in the North American and European region are focusing marketing efforts towards promoting wheat protein among national...

LA’s LACMA Museum Adds Beyond Burger to New Vegan Menu

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 25, 2018

LACMA, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, has introduced new vegan options to its menu, including a Cali Burger complete with plant-based meat by Beyond Meat. “[LACMA] is proud to announce the implementation of robust sustainability, food transparency, and ethical sourcing practices,” says a press release. The move toward a more eco-friendly museum follows after the Urban Light sculpture’s light fixtures were replaced with more energy-efficient light bulbs. “As an extension of Executive Chef Fernando Darin’s passion for animal and environmental welfare and in an effort to become one of the nation’s most sustainable, eco-friendly restaurant and cultural...

India’s Interest in Veganism Sparked By Controversy Over Country’s Meat Production

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 25, 2018

Meat has been sourced from animal carcasses at a dumping area in West Bengal, India. The Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO), says it believes the discovery will raise awareness about the negative health impacts of eating meat and push people to connect carcass meat with what is produced at a slaughterhouse. “With the extraordinary increase in lifestyle diseases, from kidney disease to heart disease, maybe it is time we re-look at our diet…to move towards a greener diet over one including animal products,” said FIAPO director, Varda Mehrotra, according to Business Insider. “Meat being sourced from rotten...

Geltor’s Vegan Collagen Wins Innovation Category at CEW Beauty Awards

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 24, 2018

Vegan biotechnology company, Geltor (formerly Gelzen), has received a prestigious award for its innovative animal-free collagen product; the product is called N-Collage. Geltor topped the Innovation category at the Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW), which just awarded companies from 47 countries at its 24th annual Beauty Awards, designed to highlight innovation and creativity within the cosmetics industry. Geltor celebrated the occasion on its Facebook page. “And the winner is…Geltor! Today we were named the winner of the 2018 CEW Beauty “Innovation of the Year” Award. The CEW Beauty Awards are the industry’s highest honor and have elevated the most innovative...

More Vegan Food Options Could Be Coming to Planes and Trains

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 24, 2018

The UK-based organization, The Vegan Society, has launched a new campaign aimed at adding more vegan options to planes and trains across the nation. “[W]e know that vegans often struggle to find suitable food when they’re travelling. In fact, in a survey last year we found out that 80% of vegans often go hungry onboard trains,” explains the society’s website. “This could well be a situation you have found yourself in. Plenty of us have headed off on a long journey, and been pushed for time to prepare food in advance. Before you know it, you’re on a three-hour...

New All-Day Vegan Market Coming to London’s Famous Leake Street

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 24, 2018

Londoners are about to be treated to a new vegan affair; an all-day vegan market is due to hold its inaugural evening next weekend. Ethical lifestyle magazine, Bright Zine, that doubles as the night market organizer took to Twitter to announce the news. “If you’re in London next weekend you won’t want to miss It’s A Vegan Ting, Waterloo’s first #vegan market! We’ll be there launching Issue Five [of its magazine] and eating ALL of the vegan food on offer,” it commented on the upcoming event to be held on June third at 26 Leake St, Waterloo, a street that...

2 New Vegan Jolly Rancher FroYo Flavors Launch at 200 Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt Stores Across U.S.

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 23, 2018

Two new vegan frozen yogurt options have launched at nearly 200 Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt stores across the U.S. and Mexico; the new Jolly Rancher-inspired flavors are Dairy-Free Blue Raspberry and Dairy-Free Green Apple. “We are excited to be the first frozen yogurt franchise to partner with Jolly Rancher with two of their top flavors. This national partnership expands our dairy-free options, which makes them a perfect treat for our guests this summer,” Kendall Ware, President and COO of Orange Leaf, said in a press release. Jolly Rancher candy is made with vegan ingredients and is known for being one...

Vegan Actor Rainn Wilson Wants Indonesia to Ban Dog Meat

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 23, 2018

Vegan actor Rainn Wilson, best known for his portrayal of the character Dwight in comedy series “The Office,” has shared his support for a dog meat-free Indonesia. Wilson took to his Instagram account, sharing the compassionate post with his one million followers. “In honor of Oona, my 16 year old pit bull, I’m supporting the #DogMeatFreeIndonesia campaign with @HSIGlobal. In Indonesia, over 200 dogs are KILLED EVERY MINUTE OF EVERY DAY for their meat. Take action now: hsi.org/stopthecruelty,” he said of a selfie with himself and Oona. In honor of Oona, my 16 year old pit bull, I’m supporting the...

Indiana Cancels Bobcat Hunting Season Amid Public Outcry

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 22, 2018

The state of Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has unanimously voted to cancel this year’s bobcat hunting season. The vote was spurred by protests from animal activists, calling the hunting season a “death sentence” for Indiana’s wildlife. The bobcat is Indiana’s only native wildcat, and in 2005, the species was classified as endangered within the state. “As we all know, that is a rather sensitive topic to a number of people and we have heard from you and appreciate the interest and always appreciate people getting involved in the process,” said DNR director Cameron Clark of his move...

University of Tennessee Ceases Emergency Medical Training on Live Pigs

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 22, 2018

The University of Tennessee College of Medicine has ended all emergency medical training on live animals. Previously, students would perform surgery on live animals, especially pigs, to train for emergency medical situations. Following this procedure, the animals would be euthanized. Alongside a growing consciousness for animal welfare issues as of late, the public who got wind of the training methods spoke out. Last month, activists protested about the practice, urging the university to modernize lab testing and cease the use of animals. Non-profit health organization, PCRM (Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine), applauded the decision. It told local media outlet WDEF that...

Tesco Launches Vegan Free From Margherita Pizza

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 22, 2018

The UK’s leading supermarket, Tesco, has launched its very own vegan Margherita pizza. The free from pizza contains no gluten, wheat, milk, egg, or other animal products and is clearly labelled as a vegan-friendly food item. Tesco describes its Margherita pizza as “sourdough pizza, tomato sauce and coconut oil alternative to [dairy] cheese.” Self-titled vegan foodie Shauny-May, who runs the Instagram account “comeveganwithme” took to her social media to share the news. “OMG WHAT! Just saw this in the vegan UK Facebook group. Has anyone tried one yet?! Apparently £3.50 in the chilled vegetarian section!” she said of the...

Kelly Osbourne Goes Vegan and Has ‘More Fun With Food Than Ever Before’

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 22, 2018

British singer-songwriter, author, and actress, Kelly Osbourne shared a picture of her favorite vegan mac ‘n’ cheese on her Instagram stories. The celeb snapped a picture of her making a meal using Annie’s Homegrown organic vegan shell pasta and creamy sauce. “I really miss eating cheese so today I tried ‘vegan shell pasta and creamy sauce’ aka Mac & cheese… you can not tell the difference,” she said of the packaged dish. Osbourne later shared a picture of cucumber on toast, “I used to think being a vegan was boring. Now I have more fun with food now than I...

Sustainable Footwear Designer Sydney Brown to Launch Vegan Biodegradable Stilettos

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 21, 2018

Sustainable vegan footwear designer Sydney Brown is set to launch biodegradable stilettos that have been fours years in the making. “We’ve had a very strong commitment to using as little plastic as possible,” Brown told Vice, as the designer establishes a studio in Hawaii. “With every collection we try to do a bit better.” The stilettos were sported by vegan actor, Natalie Portman, on a Saturday Night Live segment earlier this year. Although the shoes will eventually break down, Portman demonstrated the sturdiness of the design by jumping up and down; degrading shoes would not be a concern of the wearer...

Actor Mena Suvari on Her Vegan ‘Epiphany’ at Moby’s Little Pine Restaurant

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 21, 2018

After adopting a vegan diet 11 months ago, actor Mena Suvari has raved about the abundance of cruelty-free fashion options and the industry’s ethical future. Suvari wrote a guest post on The Kind Life, a blog run by fellow vegan actor, Alicia Silverstone. The two women star alongside each other on the upcoming Paramount Network sitcom “American Woman.” Suvari said after transitioning to a vegan diet, she had an epiphany-of-sorts and knew veganism ran deeper than the plate, for her. “I soon realized that in order for me to feel my absolute best I also needed to veganize my closet...

Karlie Kloss Models Stella McCartney’s Most Eco-Friendly Vegan Collection Yet

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 21, 2018

Supermodel and entrepreneur Karlie Kloss has used her platform to inspire positive change in the world’s second-most polluting industry, fashion, by modeling vegan designer Stella McCartney’s most environmentally-friendly collection to date. According to Net-A-Porter, the collection that is part of ADIDAS BY STELLA MCCARTNEY features fabrics including recycled polyester, recycled Parley Ocean Plastic™ and organic cotton; marrying environmental innovation with specially engineered designs to complement stylish female athleticism. The design also nods to modern flair, it is said to embody the strength, femininity, and power embraced by women today – as Kloss aptly portrays. The collection is facilitated by...

Popular Vegan Milk Brand Oatly Announces 5 New Plant-Based Ice Creams

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 21, 2018

Swedish-based vegan oat milk brand, Oatly, has announced its latest plant-based endeavour on Instagram. The brand revealed it is launching five new ice creams. “TURN IT UP!!!!!!! Excuse all the caps, but we didn’t want you to miss out on the music because we spent an insane amount of money on it so that you would watch the video and think that the video was way cooler than if the video didn’t have any music on it that cost an insane amount of money,” captioned Oatly in joviality. “So, for the sake of playing along and making us happy,...

New Orleans’ Trilly Cheesesteaks Offers Vegan Versions of Every Sandwich on the Menu

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 20, 2018

Former cheesesteak pop-up, Trilly Cheesesteaks, has opened a permanent location in Mid-City, New Orleans. This new brick-and-mortar cheesesteak shop offers a vegan version of every Philly sandwich on its menu. The Trilly Cheesesteaks’ menu includes plant-based recreations of conventional animal-based, Philly-style sandwiches. The company uses seasoned seitan to recreate both chicken and steak style sandwiches, then adds various sauces, plant-based cheeses, and spices to diversify its menu options. Customers can choose from a classic Vegan Philly which simply includes seitan steak and melty vegan cheese on a bun, to more unique sandwiches such as the Far East Philly, Buffalo...

Vegan Leather By Malai Created From Coconut Water to Reduce Food Waste

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 20, 2018

Two entrepreneurs have partnered to develop a breakthrough new vegan leather-style product using the cell wall of coconut water and banana fibre that would otherwise be discarded — tackling the unsustainable leather industry and the global food waste issue all at once. Susmith Suseelan, an experienced product designer, teamed up with designer and material researcher Zuzana Gombosva to create the innovative product. The duo developed their vegan leather from bacterial cellulose (the naturally-occurring structural material of plants frequently applied to biotechnology and microbiology) dubbed “Malai” – which figuratively translates to “cream of the crop” and literally translates to “milkfat”...

New Vegan Australian Brand, Funky Fields, Launches Organic Vegan Butter Nationwide

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 19, 2018

A new vegan company, Funky Fields, has launched its debut product in stores across Australia. Funky Fields, whose slogan reads “there is no planet B,” is offering options to meet the growing demand for vegan, organic and ethically-made food. Its premier product to hit the market is called Organic Spreadable – a plant-based butter spread. Funky Fields’ offering is set to reinvent the dairy category by challenging the misconception that dairy can only come from animals. “Some foods are just not the same without butter. With that in mind, we have made an alternative for those looking to eat...

Vegan Musicians Dawn Richard and Mya to Star In Cruelty-Free Fashion Project

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 19, 2018

Vegan musicians Mya and Dawn Richard have teamed up with animal rights organization, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) to promote vegan and cruelty-free fashion. PETA shared snaps of the two compassionate singers via Instagram stories. “We’re working on a #vegan fashion project with singers @dawnrichard & @myaplanet9,” wrote PETA. The specifics of the project are yet-to-be-announced. Richard stated in another story that she is proud to wear vegan fashion. “You’re respecting not only the humans around you, but the animals around you as well,” she said. Both women are vocal about animal rights and their vegan...

Saudi Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed Blown Away By Hong Kong’s Vegan Scene

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 19, 2018

Saudi Arabian Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed just paid a visit to the leading vegan campaign and social venture group in Asia, Hong Kong’s Green Monday. Green Monday co-founder, David Yeung, shared a picture of himself with the prince. “An honor to host Saudi Prince @khaledalwaleed at Green Common today!!!,” captioned Yeung. “Turned vegan 8 years ago, Khaled is an avid environmentalist and impact investor trying to shift the world towards plant-based and cruelty-free. He hasn’t been to Hong Kong for 8 years so we are particularly glad we gave him a good and green impression. He tried the @beyondmeat...

20.6 Million Animals Saved By Eating Vegetarian Once a Week For a Decade, Finds New Report

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 18, 2018

A new impact analysis report highlights the substantially positive impact that eating vegetarian just one day a week has on the planet and farmed animals. The report was released by the Humane Society of the United States’ (HSUS) Harvard fellow, Dr. Helen Harwatton. She is an award-winning researcher and scientific author who specializes in planetary health, centering most of her work on analyzing the environmental impact of animal agriculture compared to plant-protein. The new report looks at the Meatless Monday program implemented in K-12 schools across the nation, among similar initiatives. Between 2012 and 2017, the Meatless Monday program was offered...

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Gifted Adopted Rescue Bull for Royal Wedding

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 18, 2018

Vegan animal rights organization, PETA India, has rescued a bull in honour of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s fast-approaching wedding. The bull was adopted under the name “Merry,” a mash-up of the couple’s names (and it’s also a nod to the “merry” occasion). “Prince Harry and Meghan Markle now have a one-ton bull to call their own,” PETA founder, Ingrid Newkirk told Express. “Rescuing Merry is an ideal wedding present for a couple who want their day celebrated with charitable works and contributions. The royal wedding is the perfect time for anyone to spare a thought for and show...

First Vegan Restaurant Opens on Isle of Wight

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 17, 2018

The first ever all-vegan restaurant to open on the second most-populated island in England, Isle of Wight, has had a successful launch. The restaurant, based in Ventnor, goes by the name Pulse, nodding to a group of popular protein-rich ingredients in many vegan diets. Last Saturday’s opening was so busy that four sittings were each fully booked out. Pulse’s proprietor, Sandra O’Toole told local news outlet, County Press, that it had been her dream to open a vegan restaurant. The menu on the opening night included offerings such as parsnip and watercress soup, bruschetta with salsa verde, courgette with...

Vegetable-Rich Vegan Diet Supports Healthier Gut Microbiome, Study Finds

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 17, 2018

A new study published in the journal The American Gut has suggested eating more plant-based foods, consuming fewer antibiotics, and being mindful of mental health can lead to a healthier bacterial microbiome in the gut. The study conducted by the University of California San Diego’s School of Medicine, aimed to identify environmental factors in relation to gut health. It is a part of a larger ongoing global study that has analyzed bacteria in the digestive tracts of over 11,300 volunteer participants to date. Anonymous people from 42 countries – including the U.S., Australia, and the U.K. – sent in...

Vegan Lunches Now Permanent After Successful Trial in Santa Barbara Schools

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 17, 2018

After becoming one of the first cities in the U.S. to offer vegetarian and vegan meals for all students – from kindergarten to high school – Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) reports that this initiative has been a success. The plant-based meals have been on offer daily following the district’s partnership with a local vegan meat company, Hungry Planet. These meals have been so successful, the options are likely to remain on the menu for students in years to follow. When Director of Food Services, Nancy Weiss, started at SBUSD in 2008, she overhauled the cafeteria operations, ditching...

World Health Organization Calls for Worldwide Ban on Trans Fats

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 17, 2018

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for a global ban on trans fats to be implemented within the next five years. According to the American Heart Association, industrially-produced trans fats (also known as trans fatty acids) are produced by adding hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils to make them solidify. Consuming this type of fat raises “bad” (LDL) cholesterol levels and lowers “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels. The ingredient is linked to increasing one’s risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. To combat the negative health impact of trans fats, the agency released REPLACE (Review, Promote, Legislate, Assess, Create, Enforce),...

Kat Von D And Leafar Seyer to Have ‘The Most Epic Vegan Wedding Ever’

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 17, 2018

Vegan celebrity, entrepreneur, and activist Kat Von D is set to have an extravagant and compassionate vegan wedding ceremony to her husband, Leafar Seyer. The vegan couple legally married in February, announced their pregnancy in May, and are now planning the ultimate wedding bash. Von D took to Instagram to share a picture of Seyer sampling decadent plant-based cake options for the big day. “At our wedding menu tasting today! @prayers and I are so excited to be having the most epic #vegan wedding of all time!” captioned Von D. “We love the idea of showing the world that you don’t...

New Vegan Butcher Launches Meat Delivery Service Across U.S.

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 15, 2018

A new plant-based meat subscription box from vegan company Freshiez is set to launch this summer. The launch was made possible by a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised thousands of dollars over its target. The Meatless Butcher Box is “Mindful Meat On A Mission,” according to the company’s Kickstarter page. Shoppers can choose a 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, or full year subscription. A range of artisan vegan meats is available, from patties, herb-crusted filets, taco crumbles, chili, hot dogs, and brats, to name a few. The dishes are made from mushrooms, potatoes, onions, black beans, oats, oils, and spices, and are free from nuts,...

Chef Wins ‘Sandwich Designer of the Year’ for Creating Vegan Lamb Sandwich

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 15, 2018

Chef Kim Hartley, from wrap company Mission Deli, has been awarded the prestigious title of “Sandwich Designer of the Year” at The British Sandwich Industry Awards for her vegan lamb sandwich creation. Presented by the British Sandwich & Food To Go Association, the award-winning vegan sandwich won the judges over with its plant-based lamb-style meat and beetroot hummus. In addition to Hartley crowned the overall Sandwich Designer of the Year, the sandwich also topped the hummus category at the sandwich awards. The sandwich was comprised of an amaranth seed gözleme — a baked Turkish flatbread with yoghurt — alongside...

Park City Mayor Wants the Sundance City to Go Vegan With Him

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 14, 2018

Andy Beerman, the Mayor of Park City, Utah, best known as home to the Sundance Film Festival, is set to take a ten-day vegan challenge and is encouraging the mountain community to join him. Beerman and his wife have reportedly been considering switching to a vegan diet for some time. The couple have already begun incorporating more plant-based recipes into their diet. According to local news station KPCW, Beerman says he recognizes the positive impact vegan food has on the environment, personal health, and animal welfare. In just ten days of eating a wholly plant-based diet, one saves 11,000 gallons...

IKEA’s Vegan Hot Dog to Expand Across Europe Following 95% Customer Approval Rating

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 14, 2018

IKEA Food’s vegan hotdog has secured a 95 percent customer approval rating, according to the company. The international home furnishing store announced in February that it has been working on a vegan sausage for its in-house restaurants in order to promote sustainability and offer more options to its plant-based and health-conscious patrons. In contrast to the company’s trademark Swedish Meatballs, this vegan hot dog is entirely plant-based and contains no animal products. The sausage is made of vegetables, then stuffed in a vegan bun and topped with crunchy fried onions and pickled red cabbage. In line with the global trend of...

Actor Zazie Beetz’s Vegan Diet Helped Her Get In Shape For ‘Deadpool 2’

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 14, 2018

German-American actor and model, Zazie Beetz, known for her role as Domino in the forthcoming “Deadpool 2,” helped get in “ass-kicker” shape with training fueled by her vegan diet. Beetz’s personal trainer discussed her strength workout regime with PopSugar, noting he didn’t change her diet, rather encouraged her to “continue making good food choices and eating quality [plant-based] foods.” The actor occasionally posts on social media about her low-waste vegan cooking and lifestyle. She revealed via the social media platform that she makes her own kombucha and reuses old jars for drinking out of and holding homemade body butter....

Plant-Based Diets Could Erase World Hunger, Says New Report

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 13, 2018

A new report released by Our World in Data, featuring statistics from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, highlighted how the food industry could feed vastly more people with plant-based diets, rather than raising livestock. A chart included in the report breaks down the area of land on Earth by function and allocation, including land usage by animal agriculture and produce. “[T]he 11 million square kilometres used for crops supply more calories and protein for the global population than the almost 4-times larger area used for livestock,” noted the report. According to the report, the land allocated for raising livestock —...

The 13 Best-Tasting Vegan Jerky Products

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 13, 2018

Jerky is a famed and popular snack across many countries around the globe. Traditionally, jerky is made using beef, but other animals such as kangaroo, pig, poultry, fish, turkey, and more, are also used to make the meat product. For those looking to reduce their meat consumption, vegan jerky options are available. If you’re looking for recipes or pre-made vegan jerky, here are 13 crunchy, chewy, textured, smoky, yet plant-ilicious examples! The 13 Best-Tasting Vegan Jerky Products 1. Seitan Jerky Some days, basic vegan jerky just doesn’t cut it — that’s when you need this seitan jerky recipe. 2. Louisville...

Football Star Héctor Bellerín Credits Vegan Diet for Health and Sleep Improvements

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 13, 2018

Footballer Héctor Bellerín, who plays as a right-back for English club Arsenal as well as for the Spanish national team, has spoken out about his vegan diet. According to Bellerín, eating plant-based has improved his sleep and overall health. “When it comes to nutritional literature, everyone is very old-school,” Bellerín told fashion publication Mr Porter. “[People think] ‘You need milk, eggs, meat.’ But actually, you are able to get the same amount of protein, carbohydrates and vitamins from plants.” Bellerín explained how his energy had improved since making the change. He said, “I used to be that guy who snoozed...

British Columbia Bans Cosmetic Cat Declawing Practice

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 12, 2018

Declawing cats is now banned in Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia. The ban follows a successful push from The College of Veterinarians of B.C. (CVBC). B.C. joins Nova Scotia, which banned declawing in March, becoming the second region in Canada to ban the controversial practice. According to media publication Global News, the veterinary college will only perform the practice upon partial or whole digits if it is absolutely necessary for a cat to survive or classed as appropriate medical therapy by a qualified professional. Cosmetic or environmental requests from cat owners will be dismissed. The ban is set to...

Vegan Fast Food Chain Amy’s Drive Thru to Open 2nd Californian Location

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 12, 2018

Amy’s Drive Thru, America’s first vegetarian drive-thru, is set to open its second location, local news station KVTU reported. Town planners in Corte Madera, Calif., recently gave the business the all-clear to open its drive-thru on Paradise Drive along Highway 101. The founders envision a 140-seat venue offering both indoor and outdoor dining, as well as bicycle parking. The town previously banned conventional drive-thrus which focused on meat and dairy products. In fact, Amy’s is set to replace a “dilapidated” vacant Denny’s. Finding healthy yet convenient food can be a struggle for town locals. Amy’s is making organic, meat-free options more...

New Vegan VR Experience Allows People to ‘Talk With Animals’

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 12, 2018

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), the world’s largest vegan and animal rights organization, has launched a new virtual reality program, “Eye To Eye,” that allows people to “talk to animals.” “We have conceived the idea and use-case together with Kolle Rebbe, and have managed to develop an unparalleled and immersive virtual reality application. The purpose of this experience is not only to bring out the sensitivity in people but also to put them in their counterpart’s shoes – and evoke a deeper emotional feeling,” explains PETA via the website Demodern. “PETA has found a new, eye-catching...

New Florida Law Prohibits Animal Abusers From Owning Pets

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 12, 2018

A new Florida law, dubbed “Ponce’s Law,” will allow judges to issue a ban that prohibits animal abusers from owning pets after conviction for animal abuse. The law will also increase the chance of the offender being sentenced to jail time. The bill was introduced to the House of Representatives last November proposing stricter laws about prosecuting animal offenders. Recently, the bill was passed and signed by Gov. Rick Scott. The law is set to take effect later in the year. “Ponce’s Law” was created after a Labrador puppy was found dead in a backyard in Ponce Inlet. A...

Vegan Actor Chris Hemsworth Rides Waves with Plant-Based Surfer Kelly Slater

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 11, 2018

Vegan actor Chris Hemsworth just went surfing with plant-based surfer and 11-time World Surf League Champion, Kelly Slater. Hemsworth took to Instagram to share a snap of him coasting across the waves. “Lucky enough to surf the best wave pool on the planet, big thanks to @kellyslater @wsl for the opportunity !! #wslsurfranch,” captioned the People’s Choice Award-winning actor. Both men are said to follow a plant-based diet. Slater, who had been eating vegan breakfasts for years decided to adopt a fully plant-based diet late last year. He revealed via an Instagram story in January that he had been eating vegan for...

Vegan Celeb Miley Cyrus Says Not Killing Animals ‘is F-ing Hot’

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 11, 2018

Singer-songwriter, actor, and vegan activist, Miley Cyrus, has shared fresh photos to her social media followers, showcasing her outfit and vegan “glow” at the 2018 Met Gala. Cyrus highlights how “Not killing animals is fucking hot! It’s so much cuter to NOT kill animals!” The celebrity has been making headlines for her appearance at this year’s Met Gala, the first she has attended in three years. This year’s theme was “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” designed to open a dialogue between fashion and Catholicism masterworks. For the highly-anticipated gala this year, Cyrus donned a low-cut black dress...

Beyond Meat CEO Says Vegan Sausage Can Save the World

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 11, 2018

A new video released by TechCrunch features the CEO of Beyond Meat, Ethan Brown, discussing the potential of the vegan Beyond Meat sausage. “There are 7.3 billion people in this world and that number is projected to jump to 9.7 billion by 2050,” noted TechCrunch. “How are we going to feed all these people? That’s a question a lot of smart folks are starting to ask.” Brown delved into “the problem” his company is trying to solve. “Human health. Heart disease, diabetes, cancer. Climate Change, natural resource use — things like how much water we use — and then animal welfare,” Brown...

Wisconsin Dairy Company Cuts Supplier Contracts Amid Growing Vegan Market

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 10, 2018

International dairy cooperative, Arla Foods, has ended the contracts of 11 dairy companies due to overproduction. With the consumer shift away from dairy products in preference for vegan and plant-based alternatives, some industry insiders predict these contract cuts could become more common within the dairy industry. With this recent announcement, the company will cease buying dairy products from about one-third of its Wisconsin-based suppliers, which formerly produced the milk for Arla’s cheese plant in Brown County, Indiana. A spokesperson for Arla Foods stated “increased production and market volatility” were conclusive factors in the contract cuts. Mark Stephenson, Director of...

Dairy Free Down-Under to Launch Vegan Mayo and Aioli

Posted by Nadia Murray-Ragg | May 10, 2018

Australian vegan cheese brand, Dairy Free Down-Under, has announced it will launch two new products: vegan mayonnaise and vegan aioli. “Dairy Free Down Under is an Australian, family-owned business that provides fresh, quality products,” notes the brand’s website. “Using only premium ingredients to ensure the finest quality, we are committed to providing an excellent Non-Dairy and Vegan-Friendly alternative to traditional cheese and other dairy products.” Dairy Free Down-Under is reputable across the nation for its range of shredded and block cheeses, it notes its products are popular with vegan consumers and those with allergies or aversions to traditional cheese...