Although the vegan movement has started enjoying mainstream status in western countries, it is yet to make a significant mark in India. Nevertheless, veganism has slowly crept into and found a place in Indian dietary and lifestyle choices. Here’s a food carnival that’s all about exploring the lesser known side of veganism.
What : Vegan Food Carnival 2018
When : Apr 14 – Apr 15, 2018 | 10AM – 10PM
Where: University Institute of Engineering and Technology, Panjab University
Okay, so first things first. What is veganism? The term ‘vegan’ was first coined in 1944. It is essentially a dietary and lifestyle choice that steers clear of all products that exploit animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. In India, however, most vegans maintain focus on dietary preferences only, often cutting out on non-vegetarian foods and dairy products, and sticking to plant-based food products only. Cruelty towards animals may not always be the only reason for a person to choose a vegan diet, but it most certainly remains the key factor for most.
What are the benefits of going vegan? For starters, if a healthy plant-based diet is maintained with the right mix of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, one can lead a healthier lifestyle with younger looking skin and increased energy levels. Plant-based diets tend to have high levels of fibre and antioxidants and low levels of saturated fat. This basic difference between ingredients keeps obesity, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and other such diseases at bay.
Environmentally too, the benefits of going vegan are quite obvious! With reduced consumption of animal-based products, a vegan ensures longer life spans and protection of the environment. Production of meat and other animal products requires a great deal of investment in terms of food and water consumption for animals, transportation cost, etc. These factors have contributed to the overall deforestation of the Earth and consequential extinction of species. Plant-based diets, on the other hand, are more sustainable and require only one-third of the land and water used in maintaining a meat and dairy diet.
So, what do vegans really eat? Well, everything that a regular person eats, but with switched ingredients! In order to compensate for certain nutrients and minerals, vegans tend to turn to a new variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, pulses, and seeds that may not be part of an average person’s diet. There is no dearth of dishes to prepare for the vegan diet using alternate ingredients. From ice creams and desserts to pizzas and pastas to curries and baked dishes, you name it, vegans eat it! And that’s exactly what you’ll find at this two day carnival at UIET.
The Vegan Food Carnival 2018 promises a range of tasty and healthy vegan food that will leave you craving for more. Food, games, music, and dance will all come together to make this a memorable experience. And who knows, perhaps you may choose the alternative lifestyle too after attending this carnival!
