World Vegetarian Day

World Vegetarian Day History

World Vegetarian Day is an international observance that promotes the benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle and encourages people to consider adopting it. The purpose of this day is to create awareness about the positive impact of vegetarianism on human health, the environment, and animal welfare. It also highlights the variety and richness of vegetarian cuisine, making it an appealing and enjoyable choice for many.

The North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS) established World Vegetarian Day in 1977. Statistically, Canada has a significant number of people following plant-based diets. According to a survey conducted by Dalhousie University in 2018, approximately 9.4% of adult Canadians considered themselves vegetarians. Various factors, such as health, environment, and ethical concerns, inspire Canadians to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle. World Vegetarian Day provides an opportunity for those interested in this way of living to learn more about the benefits, debunk any myths, and find new recipes to try.

In Canada, World Vegetarian Day is celebrated on October 1st, which coincides with the global observance. People across the country organize various events like vegetarian cooking workshops, food festivals, and social media campaigns to spread awareness about vegetarianism. Many restaurants and cafes offer special vegetarian menus or discounts on plant-based dishes to encourage more people to try and enjoy the diverse flavours of vegetarian cuisine. This day serves as a reminder for Canadians to explore the benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle and potentially make a positive change for themselves, the planet, and the animals.

World Vegetarian Day facts

• A meat-eating person who lives to the age of 75 will typically consume parts of over 15,000 animals.
• It takes 150 gallons of water to produce 1 pound of wheat. To produce 1 pound of meat, more than 4,000 gallons of water are needed.
• According to a 2018 survey conducted by Dalhousie University, approximately 2.3% of Canadians identify as vegetarian, and another 2.3% identify as vegan.
• A 2019 study by Nielsen found that plant-based food products experienced a sales growth of over 17% compared to the previous year. This indicates a strong consumer interest in plant-based alternatives for meat, dairy, and other animal-based products.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Vegetarian Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Vegetarian Day

• Pledge to eat more fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables contain many vitamins and minerals required for our bodies to perform their daily functions.
• Invite friends and family over to share a vegetarian potluck. Encourage everyone to bring a vegetarian dish of their choice and enjoy a feast together. It's a great opportunity to showcase the variety of vegetarian options and exchange recipes.
• Take the opportunity to dive deeper into vegetarian resources like books, websites, and blogs. You can learn about new recipes, nutrition tips, and the environmental benefits of adopting a vegetarian lifestyle.