Did you know that approximately 10% of the world’s population is vegetarian, and that India has the lowest per capita meat consumption in the world? On October 1, we celebrate the benefits of being a vegetarian and admit that the meatless lifestyle can actually be awesomely delicious. So get out the carrot sticks, tofu, cheese pizza, veggie burgers, and other meat-free delights, because it’s World Vegetarian Day!
World Vegetarian Day Activities
Share the veggie wealth
Even if you’re not a vegetarian, become one for a day. Bring some vegetarian food to share with your office or school mates. Don’t want to put in any extra effort? Buy a ready-made veggie tray. Everybody loves veggie trays—even the most avid meat eaters.
Try the meatless option at a restaurant
Are you the type of person who skips over the vegetarian section of the menu without so much as a cursory glance? Today, take the opportunity to explore the veggie offerings, and opt for a meatless meal. Who knows? Maybe it’ll be more delicious than that steak.
Shop at a farmer’s market
Some of the freshest and most delicious vegetables and fruits can be found at your local farmer’s market. With fall in the air, you’re sure to find a diverse offering of meatless foods to appeal to any taste or mood (including pumpkin!).
Reasons to love Vegetarian Day
It’s good for the environment
Going meatless not only spares animals — it also conserves fossil fuel. Did you know it takes 78 calories of fossil fuel to churn out 1 calorie of beef, but just 1 calorie of fossil fuel to produce 1 calorie of soybeans? That’s 780% more efficient than meat production!
It’s good for your body
Vegetarian diets typically involve consuming lots of the good stuff you can’t always find in meat: fiber, folic acid, vitamins C and E, magnesium, unsaturated fat, and tons of phytochemicals. That translates into lower cholesterol, reduced risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and a healthier weight.
Vegetarian food can be delicious
Meatless diets get a bad rap for being bland and tasteless — but that’s not always true. Almost any vegetable can be turned into scrumptious veggie-based pancakes. Pizza (as long as it doesn’t contain sausage) is totally still an option. Ice cream is good to go. Who said vegetarians can’t have fun?
