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The Rise of Veganism in Australia
Over the past decade, a significant shift has been observed in the dietary trends and lifestyle choices of Australians. Among these changes, one that stands out starkly is the rise of veganism. Once considered a fringe movement, veganism in Australia has now emerged as a mainstream lifestyle choice.
Understanding Veganism
Veganism is more than just a diet; it’s a lifestyle choice that seeks to exclude all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty, whether for food, clothing or any other purpose. This means not only avoiding meat but also dairy products, eggs and other animal-derived ingredients. Many vegans also avoid products tested on animals and those made from animal skins.
The Growth of Veganism in Australia
Australia has seen an exponential growth in the number of people choosing to follow a vegan diet. According to Google Trends data, Australia ranks first among countries with the highest interest in veganism over the last five years. A survey conducted by Roy Morgan Research revealed that between 2014 and 2016 alone, there was an increase from 1.7 million people to 2.1 million people following all or almost all vegetarian diets.
And while not everyone within this group strictly adheres to veganism, there’s no denying that interest and adoption are growing rapidly.
Factors Contributing to Veganism’s Popularity
The reasons behind this surge are manifold – from health concerns and environmental factors to ethical considerations about animal welfare.
Health Consciousness
The health benefits associated with veganism are well-documented. A vegan diet is rich in fibre, antioxidants and plant protein, and lower in saturated fat. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.
Environmental Concerns
The environmental impact of meat production has also played a significant role in the rise of veganism. Animal agriculture contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and water consumption. Many Australians are choosing a vegan lifestyle as a way to reduce their environmental footprint.
Ethical Reasons
Many people choose veganism for ethical reasons, believing it’s wrong to use animals for food or other purposes. Documentaries like ‘Cowspiracy’ and ‘Earthlings’ have brought the realities of factory farming into the public eye, prompting many to reconsider their dietary choices.
The Impact on Australian Food Industry
The surge in veganism has had a profound effect on Australia’s food industry. Supermarkets and restaurants have expanded their range of plant-based products in response to growing consumer demand.
According to Euromonitor International, Australia’s packaged vegan food market is set to reach AUD $215 million by 2020. The market for alternative dairy products alone – such as almond milk, soy milk and coconut yoghurt – is expected to hit AUD $299 million by 2021.
Australia’s Vegan Hotspots
Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide have emerged as hotspots for vegans with an array of eateries offering innovative plant-based menus. Festivals such as World Vegan Day Melbourne attract thousands of attendees each year demonstrating the popularity and acceptance of this lifestyle choice.
Conclusion
The rise of veganism in Australia is a testament to the changing attitudes towards health, environment and animal welfare. As more Australians adopt this lifestyle, the demand for vegan products and services will continue to grow, shaping the future of food in this country.
