In just three years, the number of people who identify as vegan has grown 600 per cent. At a time when people are discovering more about the food they eat and the impact on their health, the growth is not surprising. After all, what better way to nourish your body than with plant food?
Being vegetarian or vegan was once considered oddball; some probably still think it is. But more people are discovering that a chickpea burger is every bit as delicious as a beef burger. Nut cheese can make you think twice about whether that’s Camembert on your cracker. And we couldn’t we all use more fruits and vegetables in our diet?
A Globaldata trends survey showed the percentage of U.S. consumers who identify as vegan has grown from 1 per cent to 6 per cent of the population since 2014. In Canada, a survey for the Vancouver Humane Society showed that eight per cent identify as vegetarian and another 25 per cent who say they are eating less meat. There are three big reasons: They want to do better by animals; they want to do better by Mother Earth; they want cleaner, better nutrition.
This change does not come about on its own. Influencers drive a movement and IMPACT has compiled a roster of Canadians who are behind the wheel. They are chefs and artists, athletes and activists, all innovative and all influential. So, let’s raise a glass of kombucha and meet Canada’s Top Vegan Influencers.
Danielle Arsenault
35, Canmore, Alberta.
Who follows Danielle:
Instagram: @pachavega 1,300
Twitter: @pachavegaliving 133
www.pachevega.com
Danielle may be one of the best examples of the grassroots growth of veganism. She is a cookbook author, musician, rock climber, cave guide, Spanish speaker, English teacher, world traveller, whole foods nutrition and lifestyle coach and passionate raw food chef. Through hands on raw food cooking classes, the Saskatchewan native has been sharing her knowledge, skills and transforming lives one workshop, one kitchen at a time.
I felt switching to a plant-based diet was the only way for my conscience to be clear. That was 10 years ago and since learning even more about the health implications of eating too many animal products, I believe with all my heart that plant-powered is the only way for us to live sustainably in peace. I’ve chosen this lifestyle for the health of the planet, my own health and the respect for the lives of the billions of domesticated animals.
Danielle Arsenault
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