As Singapore steps into the new year, the Lion City is once again ready to embrace a compassionate and sustainable movement: Veganuary 2024.
Founded in the United Kingdom in 2014, Veganuary has evolved into a worldwide movement urging individuals to embrace a plant-based lifestyle throughout the month of January. In this article, we’re diving into the beginnings of Veganuary, checking out how it’s catching on in Singapore, and sharing some handy tips for anyone thinking about trying out the veggie life.
Veganuary was born out of a desire to challenge and inspire individuals to explore the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. The campaign was officially launched in 2014, spearheaded by a UK-based non-profit organisation. Over the years, Veganuary has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, transcending borders and cultures, with millions of participants taking the pledge to go vegan for the month of January. For the 7th consecutive year, the Centre for a Responsible Future is spearheading the Singapore campaign.
Veganuary in Singapore
The past two years have witnessed a remarkable surge in Veganuary participants globally, Singapore included. In 2022, more than half a million individuals pledged to embrace a vegan lifestyle for the month, and this number continued to grow in 2023. The increasing popularity of Veganuary can be attributed to a heightened awareness of environmental issues, the perceived health benefits of plant-based diets, and a growing demand for cruelty-free alternatives.
Singapore, renowned for its vibrant and diverse food culture, is actively embracing the global shift towards a plant-based lifestyle. The city-state is experiencing a notable surge in initiatives catering to vegans, encompassing specialised plant-based menus in eateries and the widespread availability of plant-derived alternatives in supermarkets. Emerging as a prominent vegan hub in Asia, Singapore is not only keeping pace with this lifestyle trend but is also setting a noteworthy example for neighbouring nations.
Distinguishing itself from some of its Asian counterparts, Singapore stands as a trailblazer in the adoption of a plant-based way of living. While many Asian countries traditionally lean heavily on animal products in their cultural and culinary practices, Singapore is challenging norms by seamlessly incorporating plant-based choices into its diverse culinary landscape.
Five #LittleGreenSteps for Non-Vegans Venturing into Veganuary
- Start with Small Changes: Begin by incorporating small changes into your daily routine. Switch your regular dairy milk for plant-based alternatives, choose vegan snacks, or commit to a meatless Monday. Gradual changes are more likely to stick and become lasting habits.
- Explore Local Vegan Options: Singapore’s food scene is diverse, and the same goes for vegan options. Explore local vegan eateries or discover vegan twists on traditional dishes at mainstream restaurants. The city offers a variety of flavorful plant-based options waiting to be savoured.
- Educate Yourself: Delve into the wealth of information available about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. Understand the positive environmental impact, the potential health advantages, and the ethical considerations. Armed with knowledge, you’ll find motivation in the reasoning behind your Veganuary journey.
- Connect with the Community: Join local vegan groups or online communities to share experiences, get advice, and discover new recipes. Building connections with like-minded individuals can provide invaluable support and inspiration throughout your plant-based journey.
- Experiment with Plant-Based Cooking: Embrace your inner chef by experimenting with plant-based recipes. Online platforms are teeming with blogs, YouTube channels, and social media accounts dedicated to delicious and nutritious vegan meals. Trying your hand at plant-based cooking can be a fun and rewarding part of your Veganuary experience.
Five Resources for the *Veganuary* Curious
Embarking on a new journey may seem overwhelming. Unsure of where to begin? Fret not! A plethora of resources await those keen on delving into veganism and exploring Veganuary. Whether you’re looking for recipes, nutritional information, or community support, these platforms cater to various aspects of the plant-based journey.
The Vegan Society is one of the oldest vegan organisations globally. Their website offers valuable resources, including guides on transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, nutritional information, and tips for cooking and shopping. The Vegan Society also advocates for the ethical treatment of animals.
The official website for Veganuary is a treasure trove of information. It offers a step-by-step guide on how to go vegan, provides a starter kit, and features a supportive online community. Additionally, the website includes recipes, meal plans, and articles on the environmental and health benefits of a vegan lifestyle.
HappyCow is a global platform that helps individuals find vegan, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly restaurants worldwide. Users can search for vegan options in their local area or in destinations they plan to visit. The platform also includes reviews and ratings from the vegan community.
VegNews is a popular vegan lifestyle magazine that covers a variety of topics, including recipes, travel, and wellness. The website provides a wealth of articles, recipes, and features on plant-based living, making it a great resource for staying updated on the latest trends and information.
Plant Based News is a comprehensive source for news, articles, and videos related to the plant-based movement. It covers a wide range of topics, including health, the environment, and ethical considerations. The platform provides up-to-date information on the latest developments in the vegan world.
Five places to check out in Singapore for Veganuary 2024
Numerous eateries across Singapore have opted to collaborate and showcase their vegan offerings. Here are five tried-and-tested places to check out:
Location: 18 Tai Seng Street, #B1-02, Singapore 539775
NomVnom offers a diverse menu of plant-based burgers, pastas, and Asian-inspired dishes. The cosy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for casual dining.
Location: Multiple, with 44 Jalan Eunos, Singapore 419502 as their flagship
Known for its innovative vegan burgers, VeganBurg is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts. Their menu features a variety of flavorful options with plant-based patties.
Location: Multiple outlets, including Orchard Central and Yishun. They even have one all the way in Penang!
Real Food is a vegetarian cafe with an extensive menu that includes vegan options. From salads to hearty mains, the restaurant focuses on using fresh, organic, and whole ingredients.
Location: 181 Orchard Road, #12-01 Orchard Central, Singapore 238896
Joie is an upscale dining experience offering a vegetarian menu with many vegan options. The restaurant combines innovative cooking techniques with a focus on quality ingredients.
Location: 779 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269758
The Living Cafe is known for its commitment to healthy and sustainable dining. The menu features a range of vegan and raw food options, including salads, wraps, and smoothie bowls.
Veganuary 2024 in Singapore marks a new chapter in the city-state’s journey towards a more sustainable and compassionate future. As the plant-based movement gains momentum, individuals have a unique opportunity to make conscious choices that positively impact their health, the environment, and animal welfare. So, why not join the Veganuary movement and savour the flavours of a plant-powered lifestyle this January? Your taste buds—and the planet—will undoubtedly thank you!