Veganuary

January is synonymous with setting personal challenges; from learning a new language to giving up alcohol for ‘Dry January’.

And, of course, there’s the perennial diet and lifestyle changes.

This year, a massive 135,000 people are expected to take part in Veganuary (compared to 59,500 in 2017)– giving up all animal produce for the month – with around 60% remaining vegan beyond January.

Bolstered by some high profile advocates, including Ariana Grande, Ellen DeGeneres and Alicia Silverstone, reducing or eliminating animal produce from our diets can have multiple benefits.

While concerns over animal welfare are perhaps the most common reason for switching to a vegan diet, the potential benefits for the planet have also come to prominence. Animal farming is the leading producer of methane gas, a major contributor to global warming, with livestock thought to be responsible for 18% of global greenhouse emissions.

There’s a host of potential health benefits, too. With some care and consideration, removing animal produce can leave a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, legumes and quality fats from nuts, seeds and oils, and lower in potentially inflammatory foods such as cow’s milk.

Thinking of giving it a try?

Sophie, Events and Experiences Manager at Pai HQ, is our go-to for all things vegan. While Veganuary may be an incentive to make a change, she recommends making the transition to the vegan diet slowly.

Mistakes happen (no matter how careful you are!), so it’s nothing to worry about if you’ve accidentally eaten something not-so-vegan – just make a note for next time.

It’s also really helpful to join vegan communities, such as Facebook groups, for recipe inspiration and information.”

Try starting with breakfast. My favourite and super easy recipe is vegan pancakes.

It’s just 1.5 cups of porridge oats, 1 cup of non-dairy milk (soya, rice, almond milk ect..) and 1 ripe banana.

Simply blend all ingredients together until smooth and cook as usual.

It makes a really quick breakfast or dessert – you can also add vanilla flavouring when blending and top with strawberries and blueberries.”

If you’re extending veganism to your skincare and cosmetics, you can rest assured the entire Pai range is certified Vegan by The Vegan Society.