It’s easy to stumble upon various myths about veganism (or have them rammed down your throat), whether through social media or conversations with friends and family. Unfortunately these myths can create confusion and doubt that might deter someone from exploring a vegan lifestyle.
In this article, we’re setting the record straight by debunking three of the most common myths about veganism. So the next time you’re confronted with any of these questions you’ll be ready with the facts!
1: Vegans Cause More Animal Deaths through Crop Deaths
One of the more persistent myths you may have encountered is the claim that vegan diets cause more animal deaths through the harvesting of crops than diets that include meat. This assumption suggests that the small animals who live in crop fields, like rodents and insects, are killed in greater numbers than livestock animals.
The Reality
Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that all forms of agriculture have some impact on wildlife. However, the scale and impact of animal agriculture magnify these effects significantly. The vast majority of crops grown worldwide are not eaten by humans directly but are instead used to feed livestock. In fact, about 77% of soy and a significant portion of other grains and legumes produced globally are destined for animal feed, not for direct human consumption.
Impact of Meat Production
Animal agriculture requires much more land, water, and crops than producing plant-based foods. For every kilo of beef produced, around 25 kilos of feed crops are required, which means that meat production is indirectly responsible for much more wildlife displacement and death than the cultivation of plants for direct human consumption.
Another issue is that the land used for animal grazing and feed crops often involves deforestation and habitat destruction, which poses a far greater threat to wildlife populations than crop farming for human food.
Studies and Evidence
Several studies have shown that adopting a vegan diet can significantly reduce one’s impact on the environment and wildlife. A study published in the journal “Science” found that eliminating meat and dairy consumption could reduce an individual’s carbon footprint from food by up to 73%. Additionally, shifting to more plant-based diets could free up millions of square kilometers of land, thus reducing the pressure on wild ecosystems and contributing to biodiversity conservation.
2: Vegans Can’t Get Enough Protein
“But where do you get your protein?!”. Despite the fact that protein actually originates from plants, the myth persists that vegan diets lack sufficient protein, leading many to question whether they can maintain health and muscle mass without animal products.
The Reality
Protein is indeed essential for health, but the belief that only animal products can provide adequate amounts is complete nonsense. Vegan diets can offer all the necessary protein required for optimal health, and they come with additional health benefits.
Plant-Based Protein Sources
- Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent sources of protein, offering about 15 grams per cooked cup.
- Tofu and Tempeh: Made from soybeans, these foods are not only high in protein but also versatile in cooking, with tofu providing around 20 grams per cup and tempeh even more.
- Quinoa and Amaranth: Unlike most plant foods, these grains are complete proteins, meaning they contain all essential amino acids. Quinoa provides about 8 grams of protein per cup.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds are not only good protein sources but also rich in healthy fats and fibre.
Health Benefits
Studies have shown that plant-based proteins are linked with lower risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, they often contain fewer calories and less saturated fats than their animal counterparts, supporting overall health beyond just meeting protein needs.
3: Veganism is Too Expensive
Another prevalent myth is that maintaining a vegan diet is expensive or a “diet for the privileged”. This can deter many from considering veganism, especially those who are conscious of their budget.
The Reality
Veganism can be as budget-friendly or as expensive as any other diet, depending on your choices. Staple vegan foods such as grains, beans, legumes, and seasonal vegetables often cost less than meat and dairy products.
Another fact often overlooked by those parroting the line that veganism is expensive is the fact that animal agriculture is heavily subsidised by governments, which has a significant impact on lowering its price.
Cost Comparison
- Legumes and grains: Lentils, beans, rice, and pasta are some of the cheapest foods available and can serve as the base for a variety of nutritious meals.
- Seasonal vegetables and fruits: Buying fruits and vegetables in season can reduce costs significantly, and these items form the backbone of a healthy vegan diet.
- Bulk buying: Purchasing staples like oats, nuts, and seeds in bulk can save money in the long run.
Tips for Economical Vegan Eating
- Plan your meals: Planning ahead can help you make the most of your groceries and avoid wastage.
- Cook at home: Preparing meals at home is generally cheaper than eating out, and it allows you to control your ingredients and portions.
- Explore local markets: Local markets often offer better deals on fresh produce than supermarkets.
The Broader Economic Benefits
Adopting a vegan diet can also lead to long-term savings in health-related expenses. Studies have shown that plant-based diets can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, potentially lowering future medical costs.
Conclusion
As you can see, debunking these top three myths about veganism reveals that it is in fact a viable and beneficial lifestyle choice. Whether concerned about protein intake, the impact on wildlife, or the cost of your diet, veganism offers sustainable and practical solutions that are aligned with a compassionate lifestyle. We hope this article has illuminated some of the truths about veganism and encourages you to explore or continue your vegan journey with confidence.
I’m the founder and editor-in-chief at GetVedgy. As a former meat eater who only recently made a commitment to veganism, I’ve spent a lot of time over the last couple of years researching the subject. It felt like a good idea to share what I’ve learnt and help to answer the questions I’ve had that no doubt many others’ will also have.