INTERVIEW WITH PETER SINGER NEW LOOK YOUTH PAGES LAUNCHLAUNCH OF OUR NEW ENVIRONMENTENVIRONMENT BOOKLET VEGANS IINN SCHOOLS, HOSPITHOSPITALSALS ANDAND CCAREARE HOMESHOMES INTERVIEWSINTERVIEWS WITH WENDYWENDY TURNER-WEBSTER AND JOAN COURT ANIMAL RIGHTS DIRECT ACTION: RIGHT OR WRONG? VEGANISM - THE NEGLECTED ENVIRONMENTAL ARGUMENT

ISSN 0307−4811

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in this issue

There have been a lot of successful 2 NEWS vegan festivals and events over the summer. If you were lucky enough to 4 SHOPAROUND attend one then relive the experience on our overflowing ‘Out and About’ 7 OUT & ABOUT pages (or see what you missed if you 11 ENVIRONMENT BOOKLET LAUNCH couldn’t get to any this year). / WORLD VEGAN DAY We are pleased to announce the completion of our sixteen page environment booklet and we are ready to meet the 12 VEGAN YOUth challenges of World Vegan Day on 1st November. The theme this year is the environment, which is currently 14 VEGILANTICS such a hot topic that 2006/7 promises to be the year 15 TYPICAL VEGAN when vegans show the world that the consumption of meat, dairy and eggs is killing our planet. A great way to 16 DIETARY DISRESPECT spread the message is to do as Sophie Fenwick-Paul suggests on page 7: join a local eco group and educate its 18 INTERVIEW WITH PETER SINGER members about the environmental advantages of a vegan diet. 21 INTERVIEW WITH WENDY TURNER WEBSTER Of course, saving the planet is only one of the many reasons to be vegan. We feature the first of two interviews with 22 VEGANISM - THE NEGLECTED leading philosophers who have compelled the academic ENVIRONMENTAL ARGUMENT world to think seriously about animal rights. In this issue Professor Peter Singer – author of the groundbreaking 24 RECIPES book Animal Liberation – gives us an insight into his latest thinking about our food choices and why they matter. 26 DIRECT ACTION: RIGHT OR WRONG?

If you have ever lived with nonhuman animals, you will 29 CURIOUS VEGETABLES know from their behaviour that they can feel pleasure and & MEGAN THE VEGAN misery. In a world where humans cause suffering to sentient beings for trivial reasons, it is hardly surprising that some 30 GROW VEGAN animal rights campaigners get angry with the farmers and vivisectors who exploit animals. Dave Palmer examines 31 NUTRITION NEWS whether economic sabotage can ever be justified or whether it simply loses the battle for hearts and minds 33 REVIEWS and drives factory farming and vivisection abroad. 34 DEAR VEGAN SOCIETY This issue also sees the launch of our new look YOUth 35 POSTBAG pages. Young people are the Vegan Society’s future and we need to attract and keep them if we are to prosper. 36 INTERVIEW WITH ANIMAL RIGHTS

Advocacy for vegans is another important project for the CAMPAIGNER: JOAN COURT coming year. We want to ensure that vegans in schools, hospitals and care homes are adequately catered for. 38 EVENTS Vanessa Clarke introduces the subject, explaining how 39 NETWORK CONTACTS LISTINGS vegans must work with other like minded organisations to gain political recognition. 42 CLASSIFIEDS Rosamund Raha 44 CROSSWORD COMPETITION Editor

The Vegan Society l Donald Watson House l 7 Battle Road l St Leonards-on-Sea l East Sussex l TN37 7AA l UK Local rate 0845 45 88244 l Tel. 01424 427393 l Fax. 01424 717064 l e-mail: [email protected]

© The Vegan Society Editor Rosamund Raha Registered Charity no. 279228 The views expressed in The Vegan do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or of the Vegan Society Design www.doughnutdesign.co.uk Council. Nothing printed should be construed to be Vegan Society policy unless so stated. The Society accepts Printed by Hastings Printing Company no liability for any matter in the magazine. The acceptance of advertisements (including inserts) does not imply endorsement. The inclusion of product information should not be construed as constituting official Vegan On G-print chlorine-free paper Society approval for the product, its intended use, or its manufacturer/distributor. Contributions intended for YOUth pages Design publication are welcomed, but unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by a SAE. Doughnut Design/Johanna Best The Vegan l Autumn 2006 1 News

I FRIEDEN HOWARD AND VEGFAM The venue is close to the historic Aberglasney Gardens and overnight accommodation can be arranged for anyone who would like to attend to celebrate Frieden’s life. The tribute to Vegfam Trustee Frieden Howard in the summer 2006 Vegan Any person or business who would like to sponsor/donate vegan mistakenly said that Frieden’s mother food or beverages for the celebration should please contact founded VEGFAM. In fact it was founded VEGFAM at the phone number or address listed below. Musicians by Chris and Janet Aldous in 1963. Later also welcome. the charity was looked after by Freiden and his mother Ruth to allow Chris and FOOD, WATER AND HOPE Janet to travel overseas – distributing food and funding cultivation projects. For less than £5 per family per day VEGFAM, the vegan famine relief charity, has successfully enabled families in Madurai and tribal When Chris and Janet had to give up communities in four villages at the tri-junction of India, Nepal and running VEGFAM, the charity was run by Tibet to grow foods to nourish themselves in an environmentally Ruth and later Frieden (with help from sustainable fashion. his wife and daughter). Frieden was a Trustee for thirty eight years. At the end of the three-month growing period the harvest will provide corn, ragi (finger millet), rice and vegetables. Also as a Sandra Ozolins and Simon Good moved result of these projects 1,000 fruit trees will have been planted to VEGFAM headquarters - “the Sanctuary” in 1990, to take on to provide food and prevent soil erosion, 20 new compost pits unpaid VEGFAM work and after two years moved back to Wales, will have been constructed and a plant nursery introduced. agreeing to become VEGFAM Trustees. Their good work continues Training in self-sufficiency is also provided and farmers’ co- to this day. operatives set up. REMEMBER FRIEDEN HOWARD To find out more about VEGFAM go to: https://www.charitychoice.co.uk/vegfam phone 01550 721 197 or A fundraising afternoon is taking place in Carmarthenshire, Wales write to VEGFAM C/O Cwm Cottage, Cwmynys, Cilycwm, on Saturday 30th September, where a non-religious memorial to Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, Wales, SA20 0EU, UK. Frieden will also take place.

I VEGAN FEAST ON I THE GROWING GREEN CHANNEL 4 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT BURSARY FUND

Lovely vegan Nikki O’Leary of Vegan Organic Network (VON) stockfree symbol holder ScouseVeg cooked up a has ten students enrolled this year on their stockfree gorgeous feast on the C4 show course. They receive financial help with either part or all ‘Come Dine with Me’ at the of the cost of the course, or assistance with other beginning of August. She relevant expenses, this encourages students who might impressed her sceptical otherwise not enrol on the stockfree organic courses to carnivore guests with a fantastic do so. They will be the vegan-organic, stockfree, farmers 3 course vegan meal which included baked avocado with vegan of the future. bacon, aubergine curry and chocolate mousse, she even converted one of her guests to veganism. Judging by the For more information number of calls we have received it seems that they were not the about the Student only ones to be inspired by her vegan message. Great job, Nikki! Bursary Fund and stockfree organic farming You can find her recipes at: please see ‘Grow Vegan’ www.channel4.com/life/microsites/C/come_dine/1nikki.html on page 30.

2 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 I OMEGA 3 OILS IN SCHOOLS I SCHOOL MEALS TO BRAG ABOUT

The media recently reported that the government is considering In our Spring issue we plans to provide school children with fish oil supplements in an reported that Veggies attempt to boost brain-power and improve behaviour. Catering Campaign (VCC), a volunteer-led However, omega 3 oils from fish are not the best option. Many community-based project, fish contain dangerous levels of mercury and other pollutants. were in discussions with Giving all school children fish oil would also be an ecological Glapton primary and nursery school in Nottinghamshire to provide disaster. This is because farmed fish are given so many chemical healthy vegan dinners for their pupils. We are extremely pleased treatments for diseases and parasites that lakes, rivers and seas to report that VCC has succeeded in securing a year-long contract become polluted by the chemicals in the water. with the school, and now serve about 50 healthy vegan meals a day.

The best way to improve children’s health and behaviour is The meals are freshly cooked on site wherever possible using through a healthy balanced diet containing plenty of unprocessed many organic and/or locally sourced ingredients, including fresh or lightly processed plant foods. Ground flax seeds or other herbs and other produce grown in the School’s own garden, plant derived omega 3 oils are also an excellent addition to the and judging from the menus posted on their website the dinners diet and are suitable for vegetarians, vegans and other non-fish are a stark contrast to the unhealthy and unappetizing meals eaters also. Flax, hemp and rapeseed oils are much more served in most other schools. You can see for yourself on: sustainable sources of omega 3 than eating oily fish! www.veggies.org.uk

I DIABETES AND THE VEGAN DIET

As we go to print, we can report that a new study published in the journal Diabetes Care, has found that 43% of people with type 2 diabetes who followed a low fat vegan diet for 22 weeks reduced their need to take medication compared with 26% of those who followed the diet recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The people on the vegan diet also lowered their cholesterol levels.

Dr Neal Barnard, president of the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine, which helped conduct the study said “I hope this study will rekindle interest in using diet changes first, rather than prescription drugs."

I have important news for members. After sixteen years in St Leonards-on- Sea, it looks as if we have found a new FROM THE CHAIR home for The Vegan Society.

Regular readers will remember that Council have been looking for new Although the building is very sound, it I have to admit I shall feel a bit nostalgic premises for over a year now, as 7 Battle will need some minor building work and about 7 Battle Road; it has served us well Road in St Leonards was occupied up to fitting out once we have vacant for sixteen years, and I have been coming full capacity. Although we were possession. There is a very good chance here for about twelve of those years. particularly interested in properties in that we shall move into it before the Birmingham, we also looked at other end of the year. This is the first issue of “The Vegan” to be towns and cities. We finally found a edited by Rosamund Raha. Her predecessor, former jewellery workshop and office in Catriona Toms, is a hard act to follow, but Birmingham is in a very good central Birmingham, just about the right size to I hope you will agree with me that Roz location, and will make it much easier accommodate us and allow for future has done a splendid job and maintained for our staff to get to trade shows, growth. At the time of writing, we are the high standard of the magazine. vegan festivals and so on. It will also be in the process of buying it, but the legal easier for members and supporters to formalities take a long time and we get to the office – there are always could still be “gazumped”, so I prefer plenty of jobs for volunteers! not to give out the address just yet. George D Rodger

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 3 Shoparound

Johanna Best

I BLUE LOTUS PRODUCTS I RAW SKIN CARE What’s better than vegan cake? PRODUCTS Vegan cake delivered to your door! Blue Lotus Products FROM offer a selection of RAW GAIA gorgeous 4”, 6” and 9” vegan cakes as well as This beautiful muffins and pastries - all new range of freshly baked to order. We handmade skin had the pleasure of products from sampling the Carrot, Date Raw Gaia is 100% organic, raw, and free from artificial and Walnut, Coffee, and parfums, parabens and other nasties. The process used in Chocolate Layer cakes, all of making these products avoids heat above 40°C which means which were wonderfully moist and that the antioxidants, vitamins and minerals of the ingredients spongy. The Date & Walnut has a great balance of juicy dates are retained and therefore able to work their magic on your and crunchy walnuts, while the other cakes have deliciously skin. In fact Raw Gaia reports that eczema has been shown to creamy frostings to lick from your paws. With their free gift gradually improve with the use of their creams. We tested For card, these cakes make for a great birthday present, and Her Daughters Living Moisturizer made from fairly traded raw thanks to the gluten and wheat free and no added sugar cocoa butter and a lovely blend of essential oils, which smells selection everyone can have their cake and eat it. Prices start good enough to eat and left our skin sweet and soft. All from £7.49 for a 4” cake or box of muffins. products in the range, which includes Living Lip Balms, Massage Bars and For Her Sons Living Moisturizer, are vegan To view their full range or to and have been enhanced with Reiki energy. Prices start from order go to: £4.50. www.bluelotusproducts.com or call 0116 2998122. For information contact Raw Gaia on 01273 311476 or visit: www.rawgaia.com

I TREAT YOUR FEET I ECO SUDZ - CLEAN BODS, CLEAN WATER WITH FREERANGERS A day in the surf, on the bike When you pack away your or in the hills leaves us salty, sandals for another year and muddy and - let’s face it – tuck your feet into warm socks rather sweaty, but after having a great time and boots for the winter, don’t forget about outdoors that last thing we want to do is keeping your tootsies in good shape - treat pollute the planet with chemical soaps when them with a refreshing Minty Foot Scrub from we shower. Eco Sudz, however, is not mean to Freerangers. Massage the mint infused salt the green (or blue) as it is handmade in crystals into your feet, give them a lovely Cornwall using a pollution-free process and warm soak and follow with their soothing contains a blend of natural ingredients Zingy Lemon Footcream to sooth and including cocoa butter and essential oils of sweet orange and manuka. And not deodorise. Created by a homeopath these only does this soap clean bodies, it also helps clean our waters by supporting products are part of the all vegan Freerangers the Surfers Against Sewage campaign for clean and safe recreational waters Pamper range, and will relieve tired aching with a donation for every bar sold. With all of this plus the funky packaging it’s feet leaving them fabulously soft and fragrant. suddenly cool to be clean (though your granny has been telling you that for years!) Both products cost £6.75 each and can be bought from: www.freerangers.co.uk A 75g bar of Eco Sudz costs £2.95 from www.ecosudz.co.uk Tel: 01207 565 957 Surfers Against Sewage: www.sas.org.uk

4 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 All Shoparound products have been authenticated as

I RAW TEMPTRESS

Raw food goddess and co-author of Naked Chocolate Shazzie has created a series of 6 handmade raw chocolate bars free from sugar and chemicals for the pure pleasure of cacoa worshippers. The first to be released is Temptress, which will gratify you with chunky mouthfuls of gorgeous raw chocolate made from raw cacoa, nutrient-packed yummy goji berries, and sensuous rose petals. Said to be a natural aphrodisiac, raw cacoa is also a potent source of antioxidants and magnesium so your whole body will benefit from being seduced by this Temptress. Who said that you can’t have pleasure I REDWOODS GIVEAWAY without pain?

Redwoods are giving away a free pack A 68g bar of Temptress costs £4.45 from www.detoxyourworld.com of their new Vegideli Cheatin’ Chicken Style pieces and Vegideli Cheatin’ Vegetarian mince to the first five names pulled out of a hat. I KOOCHIE KOO - ORGANIC SKINCARE FOR PREGNANCY, NEW MUMS AND BABY

Certified organic and packaged in recycled materials, Koochie Koo’s exclusive range of gentle skincare, massage oils and baby care is kind to the environment as well as your family’s skin. These products are free from chemicals, and are rich in natural To enter either email your name, oils and GMO-free pure vitamin E making them ideal for address and phone number to sensitive skin; but they are sure to be appreciated by anyone [email protected] looking for naturally lovely skin care. putting ‘Vegan Society offer’ in the subject box. Or if you don’t have e- In addition to deluxe baby wipes, nappy cream and talc-free mail send your name, address and natural powder the range includes Stretched To The Limit™ phone number on a postcard to: body cream - which assists in maintaining the suppleness of Vegan Society offer, The Redwood stretching skin during and after pregnancy – and well-deserved Company, 60 Burkitt Road, Earlstrees luxury gift packs to pamper mother and baby. Industrial Estate, Corby, Northants NN17 4DT. Closing date 20 Stretched to the Limit™ Cream costs £17.50 for 125 ml and September. Natural Powder™ costs £7.50 for 100g.

Koochie Koo products can be ordered on line from www.KoochieKoo.com or by phone: 01277 224079 I CARRIES COOKIES

Carries Cookies offer a range of deliciously comforting flapjacks, brownies, boozewams and dunkies, many of which are vegan, organic, gluten-free, wheat-free and/or sugar-free. We sampled the BlueberryBerry and Raspberry & Almond Flapjacks; both of these beauties are moist, chewy and packed with delicious goodies such as seeds, coconut and, in the case of BlueberryBerry, dark chocolate. The Raspberry and Almond flapjack is sweetened with rice syrup making it a scrumptious sugar-free treat. Carrie’s enticing selection of over 30 different handmade vegan flapjacks including Orange & Chocolate and Kumquat means that you will have a lot of fun finding your favourite. But fear not if you are the indecisive type - they do offer a sampler box of 6 different varieties to help you out!

NB: at the time of writing, it is not stated on the website which products are vegan so do make sure you check with Carrie before ordering!

Prices start at £7.50 for 6 flapjacks including postage within the UK from www.soyummy.co.uk , or phone 0709 2877343.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 5 All Shoparound products have been authenticated as Shoparound Continued

I EXCELLART - VEGAN MARKETING & DESIGN COMPANY

Having a great vegan product is not enough to be successful these days – effective marketing and promotion are also vital in order to be and remain competitive, but marketing or design companies that are not familiar with or sympathetic to the vegan market may not hit the mark. Excellart, however, is a vegan run company that provides services to help promote your business. Formed in May 2005 by Ian Liddle, a successful figure in marketing for many years, and wife Jenny Liddle, a graphic artist, the company offers services such as web design, on-line marketing advice, PR, promotional literature, and direct marketing - all tailored to the individual needs and budget of each client.

Recent projects include leaflet design for The Vegan Society, a questionnaire for the Dr Hadwen Trust, and a website for R & R Tofu.

I NATURALLY DECADENT INIKA Excellart offers a 10% discount on its marketing consultancy and COSMETICS design services for vegan businesses and vegan products. For more information, contact Ian or For those of us who are always on the lookout for Jenny Liddle on 01761 413 022, email: exciting cruelty-free make-up to add a bit of glam to [email protected] or visit our lives, the Inika range of mineral cosmetics will be www.excellart.co.uk. a bit of a treat. Free from chemicals and talc and made from only pure, natural ingredients this range of skin, eye and lip make up comes in a whole spectrum of gorgeously fun or natural colours – the versatile eye shadows, for example, will add glitz to any occasion. The skin products such as foundation and blushers contain natural sunscreen and are dense enough to cover blemishes without clogging or irritating your skin. Australian based Inika describe I NATURAL HOUSE their range as “Naturally Decadent”, which makes it - ORGANIC PRODUCTS FOR YOUR HOME perfect for us girls who want ethical, natural and flirty products without compromising on performance. The Natural House range offers a natural and safe alternative to chemical-based household products that can harm both our health Inika Cosmetics are available at Mother Earth in and the environment. These organically certified vegan products are Islington, 282-284 St Pauls Road, London N1 2LH or made using traditional and efficient ingredients such as lemon and online at www.inika.com.au vinegar with exciting additions such as Quillaja, which is used for its mild detergent properties. Happily, the Natural House organic principles do not stop at the product – they are also applied to the whole production process, and the company operates ethical trading with suppliers and customers, which means that your clean home can be accompanied with a clean conscience.

Inika are giving away a fabulous set of cosmetics The stylishly packaged worth over £130 to one lucky reader. The prize range includes Salad Spa, includes the following goodies: a spray to remove soil and dirt from organic produce An Inika Foundation, Blusher, Bronzer, Mascara, Lip- and surface chemicals Liner, 4 Eye-Shadows, 2 Lip Varnishes, 2 Eye-Liners from non-organics; and an Inika Eye-Shadow brush. And the great news Window Spa; and their is that the winner will get to choose the colours multi-surface cleaner themselves! Surface Spa, and is available from 5 eye-shadow samples will also be sent to 5 runners-up. www.natural-house.co.uk and good natural product To enter just send your name and address to: Inika shops. Natural House C/O The editor, The Vegan Society, Donald Watson products retail at around House, 7 Battle Road, St Leonards-on-Sea, East £5. Sussex, TN37 7AA.

6 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 OUT AND ABOUT WITH OUR LOCAL VEGAN CAMPAIGNERS

For complete listings of Vegan Society Local Contacts and Local Groups, see pages 38 to 40

TO TELL THE ENVIRONMENTALISTS! BIRMINGHAM IT’S TIME BBQ.... Sophie Fenwick-Paul, Network The BBQ & Fayre Contacts Coordinator organized by r 2002 Birmingham Back in Decembe iot wrote an Vegetarians and George Monb Guardian Vegans on Sunday 4th article in the entitled “Why June was a complete newspaper re Right All Along” success! A record 200 Vegans We gly that meat people enjoyed arguing stron consumption and a sustainable environment are not delicious food and good company in the beautiful Martineau compatible. Gardens, Edgbaston. Not bad for a small event!

The environmental virtue of veganism has long been promoted by some within the vegetarian community e but that message has yet to significantly penetrate th t public consciousness. The public and the governmen are not looking to the vegan community for guidance through the looming environmental crisis they are BRISTOL VEGAN FAYRE.... looking to the large NGOs such as Friends of the Earth. Unless we can educate those organisations we th The 4 annual Bristol Vegan Fayre never get the message where it will most count. th will took place on Saturday 10 of June it was a massive success for 2006 and join a local eco group & share food and information y involved. Still with free n everybod with them n to the public, there were admissio become active in eco organisations and promote stalls both inside and n over 100 plant-based eating he L Shed on Bristol’s outside t get the new eco-vegan booklet by the Vegan side. With the accompanying n harbour Society and give it to people & places that care monstrations and talks, de about the planet ments, the festival was a entertain order and spread copies of the “are your meals , sun-soaked celebration of n fabulous costing the Earth?” leaflet veganism. ndly recipes and food at n share and distribute eco-frie every opportunity t from the 10am opening had The visitors who packed the L Shed righ write to your local paper the week before vegan week groups, sample the latest n the opportunity to meet animal welfare tell your local radio station about Green Vegan Week f vegan products. There was n vegan foods and drinks, and buy lots o and what you are doing for it on both going and being an abundance of information available support local, regional & national events celebrating nd lectures gave people n vegan, and the day-long series of talks a veganism for the planet plenty of opportunity to learn about everything from the pioneering ntury to vegan nutrition, health and vegans of the twentieth ce This is the start of a ss. There was heaps of fun amid all the selling, fundraising and fitne renewed focus on campaigning and even the World Cup found its way into the eating to save the proceedings through live televised football and vegan cuisines from t’s make it all over the world. planet, le happen together! t The presence of so many animal welfare groups was a reminder tha duce animal being vegan is only a part of what we can do to help re ‘Step lightly on piring. It was very well organised, it suffering but the day was very ins the parched ncouragement to vegans and non-vegans alike, and it was was a big e earth’ an excellent platform for so many vegan products, companies and philosophies. Well done to everyone involved!

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 7 OUT AND ABOUT WITH OUR LOCAL VEGAN CAMPAIGNERS Continued ZSOFI AND JAMES

A VEGAN VIEW OF Feeling inspired by HUNGARY Roger’s article but By Roger Merenyi not sure what to do about it? Our The long, hot summer International months in Hungary help to Contact met up with ensure the production of Zsofi from Budaveg, some of the most delicious an accredited all- fruits and vegetables to be Hungary tour guide with found in Europe. The a passion for veggie food apricots are sun-drenched and cruelty-free living, and asked a beauties and the colossal few leading questions. watermelons are rich in d you can e Budaveg flat flavour. Nectarines and grapes grow happily outside an Vanessa: Thank you for showing us th eze. The d the see fields of sunflowers nodding their heads in the bre in the centre of town and letting us rea y too. oesn’t world’s best quality pumpkin seeds come from Hungar comments from previous guests. But d restricting it to veggie visitors mean potential loss of ning you will If you venture out to the local market early in the mor income? ch of it find an abundance of colourful and tasty produce (mu m tiny stalls. mercial thing organic, even if it is not advertised as such) for sale fro Zsofi: I’m not trying to make a big com into the ney left by my By visiting the market, you will be putting your money out of it. The flat was bought with mo increasingly hard-working hands of the rural poor, rather than the father, who was a vegetarian himself. les stand rds are blood- evident szupermarket cash till. Behind the wooden tab I want to know that the chopping boa under h into the grey-haired women who give you wrinkled smiles from free and nobody is bringing meat or fis . ebsite also patterned headscarves and attempt to speak with you place. [The “Veggie Pledge” on the w states that the pans have never been used for meat or ey are an, the bedding Not that you are likely to understand much of what th fish, the soap is biodegradable and veg language r duvets, and so saying. Hungarian is unrelated to any other European all cotton with hypoallergenic polyeste ds rather t the airport or with the exception of a tenuous link to Finnish. It soun on. You can even arrange to be met a ion of the 44 n-air travellers!) alien to the Western ear and mastering the pronunciat train station (there is a discount for no ant fruit – and other letters in the alphabet can be a real challenge. If you w and have organic fruit and vegetables ns – gyümölcs – then try asking for apricots and watermelo goodies waiting for you at the flat.] arket at sárgabarack és görögdinnye. Maybe a bus trip to the m idea, eeting in today Székesfehérvár or Hódmezövásárhely would be a good Vanessa: The vegan restaurant we’re m for a ticket. ay, but what provided you can pronounce the place names and ask is great, and so was Vegetarium yesterd t true that it’s a Your Vegan Passport will certainly come in handy. about travelling outside Budapest? Is i bit of a nightmare? en on Earth, Before you think you have found a Fruit and Veg Heav ts are still a child my family however, there is less good news. Vegetarian restauran Zsofi: Like most people, when I was a lists several re lots of rarity in most of Hungary (although Vegetarian Europe only had meat once a week so there a ur own arian hospitality in Budapest) and you might be best advised to take yo wonderful vegetable dishes. But Hung ural Hungary that the host picnic instead. Healthy diets are barely understood in r demands that guests be given the best poverty or ffer meat. Not and not eating meat and dairy is often associated with can possibly afford, so people always o rants, though seen as a Western fad. all towns and cities have veggie restau some do, but you can usually get something tasty plant food, to ask for. Remarkably, given such a plentiful supply of gorgeous once you know where to go and what ducts per Hungary is one of the highest consumers of animal pro two of the to Hungary and capita in the world. Flesh eating and game hunting are Vanessa: It sounds like a veggie guide foie gras ul recipes would country’s favourite pursuits. Pig killing festivals, pâté de translations of some of these wonderf you happy for dishes and fur coats are commonplace. be a great idea. In the meantime, are people to contact you with queries about vegan travel country to a at the Budaveg Since the events of 1989, the West has introduced the in Hungary even if they’re not staying e of which is number of its more infamous symbols of ‘progress’, on flat? dapest has the ubiquitous McDonald’s restaurant. It is said that Bu ts in Europe. ing likeminded one of the highest concentrations of McDonald’s outle Zsofi: Of course. It’s always fun meet people from other places. umoured Nonetheless, the Hungarians are a friendly and good-h ley buses run at meeting you people. The climate is good. The trams, trains and trol Vanessa: It is indeed, and it’s been gre cost of forward to on time. Budapest is a beautiful and romantic city. The and your partner James today. I look not find ie dog] next time living is, as yet, relatively cheap. And you will probably meeting Oliver [Zsofi’s big black vegg whole of sweeter, juicier and lovelier fruit and vegetables in the I’m in Hungary. e them, you’ll Europe. If you can pronounce them, and thus purchas where to go, love them. Jó étvágyat! For a wealth of further information on what to do and above all where to get vegan food, see www.budaveg.com, email [email protected] or call 00 36 30 934 8045. Zsofi speaks English, Danish and Hungarian plus some German and Italian.

8 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 …SAVE THE PL ANET - GO VEGETARIAN 18th June 2006 NEW IDEAS AND OLD Although not a strictly vegan event, FAVOURITES this was a great success, with a panel incl Sophie Fenwick-Paul uding the Young Jains, the Yo ung Indian Vegetarians (whose Veg*ans got active chief spokesperson is a Vegan everywhere for National Society contact), a Sikh sp Week. Thanks eaker from the London Vegetarian sustainab everyone! ility campaign (a vegan already in Trusty old events proved volved in dietary rights issues w themselves again, such as ho has now joined the Society), meals out, parties, displays, the Vegan Society and interviews, stalls and free various other groups. media fairs. New ideas were born, There we food re also some very enth usiastic young people, here are two. from Shambhu’s Vegan Mahersh and Nishma Kitchen (whose delicio known to man us vegan catering is w y of us) spoke of their ell schoo work spreading the ve book crossing: ls and colleges and we gan word in re very well received. Release your unwanted veggie Great to find the Big books back to the public. Put a V Word used with such Jains, Hindus approval nowadays by ide each one and , Sikhs and Buddhists. so many vegan leaflet ins hand them out outside anywhere agreeable. And like Manchester V&V you’ll end up with a lot of interesting conversations and a very positive response.

art competition: You will need a friendly place with wall space (a cafe is ideal), a competition theme, prizes from local businesses, posters and flyers to advertise your event, publicity from the local media, participation from kids groups, a competition judge (a celebrity if possible) and ultimately photos of the winners. Thames Valley V&V’s “Make a Veggie Monster Friend” competition drew great press coverage and active involvement gies. ...REDDITCH GREEN FAIR from many non-veg active inspiration: On Saturday 3rd June 2006, the Redditch Green Fair full of resources and was held at St Stephens Church in the town centre, The ActiVeg website is vegan news items timed to coincide with World Environment Day on ideas, as well as regular your own way. Try a little Monday 5th June. It was the first event of its kind in you can respond to ake the world a better place. Redditch, providing residents with a mixture of green, something to m g.org organic and ethical products along with eco-friendly See: www.active information. A hot, summer’s day ensured a steady flow of visitors throughout the fair; all of them were made aware how simple changes to their daily life can make a real difference to the future of the planet. The RVV message of the day was simple, “There’s no such thing as a meat eating environmentalist!” The global appetite for meat and the industrial techniques of the meat industry are destroying the Earth.

Along with Friends of the Earth and Redditch Freecycle, members of Redditch Vegetarians and Vegans (RVV) were instrumental in helping to organize and promote the fair. They formed the Redditch Green Alliance, which now plans to stage the Redditch Green Fair on an annual basis.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 9 OUT AND ABOUT WITH OUR LOCAL VEGAN CAMPAIGNERS Continued

My idea of a good break from running my translation business is to attend a vegan event, preferably abroad, so I’m having a great time this Summer!

The AGM of the European Vegetarian Union (the umbrella organization for vegan and vegetarian groups throughout Europe) in Germany in late April was a good opportunity to catch up with old friends, rustee Vanessa Clarke is already on make new ones and add to my collection of T-shirts. As my fellow T the EVU governing Council I am now the official Vegan Society liaison person.

The annual international vegan festival in Turin in June was extremely well attended despite the concurrent attractions of a Gay Pride march and the annual world Vespa-owners’ club weekend. The excellent weather enhanced the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. During my talk I -shirt.mentioned Other our VS Typical Vegan campaign, after which I was mobbed by people wanting to buy the T members who gave talks were Isaac from Ghana and Jeannie from San Francisco, and all three of us ogramme. were interviewed by the press and for a late-night TV pr

, Uganda there are societies in Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria Isaac tells me that as well as the one he runs in Ghana South Africa. Low numbers mean that some combine vegans and vegetarians, but and Zambia and no fewer than four in oughout the continent. Drop despite a tradition of meat-eating in many African countries veganism is gaining a firm foothold thr me a line if you’d like contact details for any of these groups. Denmark at the beginning of August I’m delighted to see that so many of you are attending the international vegan festival in and look forward to a great week together.

Goa (see Events on p. 38), where all catering will be When you read this there may still be time to book for the world congress in Bavaria, where vegans and raw-fooders will be catered vegan, and for the German Vegetarian Society’s annual walking week in aren/Müritz, tel./fax 00 49 3991 665621, for (20 – 27 Aug., contact me or Jürgen Kniesz, Lindenstr. 38, 17192 W [email protected]). San Francisco Vegetarian Society’s big event during It may be possible to arrange accommodation for VS members attending the e d Lyman will be one of the speakers and catering will be vegan. Mor the weekend of 30 September/1 October, where Howar . details from www.sfvs.org, [email protected], 001 415 273 5481

There is too much vegan stuff going on throughout the world for one column, so to ensure you don’t miss anything do keep an www.ivu.org (which also contains more than 2000 recipes, all of them eye on the website of the International Vegetarian Union – vegan). If you have any information about events that deserve publicity please let me know well in advance, and if you’d like to receive news of international events between magazines please contact me by e-mail or post.

Finally, as many members reading this will be new, I make no apology for pointing out once again that when Vegan Society representatives attend meetings and events abroad we do so entirely at our own expense. Tschüß!

Patricia Tricker, International Coordinator

10 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 1ST NOVEMBER IS WORLD VEGAN DAY

orld Vegan Day this New Environment Booklet Wyear has an environmental theme. Following from our ‘Are your Meals Costing the Earth?’ one- So whether you are a local page leaflet, the Vegan Society group planning a stall to has now produced a sixteen-page inform people about the environment booklet called advantages of a vegan diet, or ‘Eating the Earth.’ The booklet a young person wanting to set provides well-referenced facts up a display in school or and figures and is all you need to college, you will be glad to have defeat the arguments of our new sixteen-page sceptics, who don’t believe that environment booklet, which sets vegan diets are less out the exact reasons why a environmentally damaging than vegan diet is better for the omnivorous diets. environment. Copies of the environment Please visit the Local Contacts Forum booklet are available from the on: www.lcat.makessense.co.uk to Vegan Society Information discuss ideas and keep up to date Department. with developments Please call 0845 45 88244 Good luck with whatever you or e-mail have planned! [email protected]

We strive to be as organic and as local as Carnbren Vegan we can when shopping and are also growing some produce ourselves. Guest House We recycle compost and Having travelled considerably, we were often disappointed conserve energy. in the way we were catered for. This initially led to the idea of a vegan bed and breakfast in our favourite place: We pride ourselves on our friendly and relaxing home Lairg, in the Highlands. and want our guests to enjoy the special holiday time that they have looked forward to all year. We’d thought that we’d be catering mostly for veggies and vegans, but ‘omnivores’ that stumble upon us have For more information, please contact been very happy! Many leave with ideas to try at home Caroline Snow & Keith Biggerstaff and most with a new perception of veganism; it’s not Tel. 01549 402259 just lentils, is it?! www.carnbren-vegan.highland-guesthouse.co.uk

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 11 Vegan YOUth Welcome to the new YOUth pages!

e are just bursting to present our exciting new space for vegan youth – about time too, we know! As the Wname suggests, we want YOU to be a part of it: tell us what you want to see on these pages, and tell us about yourselves - what you are up to and what you are in to, and what issues affect you as a young vegan. For example, if you help promote veganism, or if you are doing some fundraising or a vegan-orientated school/college project then let us know. Or tell us how it is to be vegan at your school/college, or how you deal with family, friends or teachers who just don’t get the whole vegan thing. As a little incentive to get you writing (as if you need one) we will be giving away a fab prize to the shiniest Star Letter every issue! And you will be pleased to hear Write to: The Vegan Society (YOUth), Donald Watson House, that we now offer a special Vegan Society Youth 7 Battle Road, St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex TN37 7AA Membership for people under 18 - just £7 a year! Now, are we forgiven for taking so long? Or email: [email protected]

SAM McCREESH REVIEWS

Go Vegan Go! THE DIARY OF By Séamus Brough Publishers: Magpie House A TEENAGE Cover Price: £2.99

Nine year old Séamus wrote Go Vegan Go! to prove to the VEGA world that vegans are not “skinny foolish stupid people”. It N seems that Séamus has succeeded as he certainly comes This summer I’ve been lucky enough across as a smart, caring and funny individual and a great to get a ten week holiday as I didn’t example of a vegan kid. Issues such as bullying (by teachers have to go back to school after I as well as kids) and animal suffering are presented with finished my GCSE exams. cheeky humour and refreshing honesty. You will giggle at Lately, I’ve been doing a fair amount his descriptions of the nasty truths behind honey, milk and of work with Veggie Vision - the eggs, but they will remind you of why you are vegan, and internet TV station for veggies and if you are not vegan they will be sure to make you think vegans - because we want to get a about things. Go Vegan Go! is not just for kids and new and improved site up and teenagers, adults will appreciate it too - just make sure running soon. We’ve recently added that they give it back when they are finished! lots of new programmes and have got several new competitions running with lots of prizes to give away. There are lots of additional exciting new things planned for those who sign up to our free ezine, so don’t miss out on all the hey! check out our fun at www.veggievision.com I’ve also been running the Veggie Vision Myspace – so if you’re a interview with Séamus Myspace addict make sure you check us out at www.myspace.com/veggievision Leave a comment and add us to Elf Bedtime Stories your ‘friends.’ By Jill Russell Sold in aid of Animals and Sanctuaries In September I’m going to college to study A Levels; I’m also [email protected] th hoping to go to the London Vegan Festival on 10 September – see Cover Price: £2.99 you there! Join Pip and Poppy in their adventures as they meet new animal friends and learn about nature in Elf Bedtime Stories. These 18 magical short stories will delight younger children as they follow the two elves through their magical Sam McCreesh w: www.sammccreesh.com wood in episodes such as ‘The Birthday Party’, ‘The Tadpole’, and ‘The Midnight Feast’. Illustrated in full colour and sold in aid of animals and sanctuaries, this book is sure to give sweet dreams!

12 The Vegan ll Autumn 2006 There are not many of us who get a book published at the age of 9! Johanna Best What inspired you to write ‘Go Vegan Go!’? catches up with Séamus Brough - author of It was because I heard of this girl who had written a self Go Vegan Go! - to find out what inspires a help book for kids in divorced families. And I thought if young writer... she can write a book, why can’t I? And of course it was because I thought I should write about veganism. It’s very interesting, and I know a lot about it!

Did you enjoy writing it? I loved writing it! I kept laughing at the different ideas I was Neera (Niz) Shah having. Neil (my step dad) was laughing so much [at is 16, lives in one part of the book] he had tears rolling down his Northampton, cheeks. I liked that, and that helped me write it. and has been vegan since You write a lot about your experiences in school - what advice would you give to anyone who is having a hard September 2004 and is into time there? reading, writing poetry, campaigning & You need to talk to your parents if you are having debating (mostly about veg*nism), graphic a bad experience with your teacher. But even design, and listening to music. In June she though I know you should talk to your parents when won a Young Jains competition to create a you have a problem I don’t always. So parents need to poster with the theme “Save The Planet, Go keep an eye on their kids, because sometimes you don’t Vegetarian”, and she has also had a letter want to talk because you don’t want to cry, or upset your parents. It’s not easy to tell an adult when there is published in her local paper about how something wrong, especially when it is another adult animal rights supporters are portrayed as causing the actual problem. dangerous when most of them are just compassionate. Niz has recently set up an When you are not writing books what do you enjoy doing? anti-bullying campaign with a friend - check That’s a toughy. I enjoy doing so much! I really like reading and I love it out at: listening to music like Wilson Pickett, Stevie Wonder, Edwin Starr, Jimi www.freewebs.com/antibullyingalltheway Hendrix, and soul music. I also like playing chess. I’m getting good at it too. I play for Staffordshire Under Elevens Team, and I have played in several tournaments.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of turning vegan, or has turned vegan and needs support?

cool vegans! If you are thinking about going vegan, just do it! It’s not that hard, people turn vegan all the time. And my mum and step dad do Vegan Buddies and ThorViolet Realfood, so they can help you find vegan friends. And so can the Vegan Society of course! I know some people who got vegan friends by turning Harman from Warrington is their friends vegan! nearly six and Who is your favourite author, and which are your favourite books? was vegan even before she was Definitely Joe Craig and his books about Jimmy Coates. He is a great writer, born! “I’m healthy and and very friendly too. I wrote to him once, and he wrote back telling me all happy being Vegan!” she says “we about Jazz music. I like “A Series of Unfortunate Events”, by Lemony respect other creatures and it’s good not Snickett. I like lots of silly and funny books and cartoons, books about facts, like the Horrible Histories etc, but also encyclopedias. to feel badly about what we do and eat. It’s good to be different, and people find Tell us about your next book me interesting.” Her favourite foods include mango, broccoli and flapjacks It’s called Animal Rights, Okay, and it is about Animal Rights really. I read an and she likes Roald Dahl, Doctor Who and awful book about so called Animal Rights, which said it was okay to eat free nature walks. range eggs and free range dead pig - which is stupid! And I thought “GRRRRRR!!!!!!” Then I thought I’ll write a proper book about it...

Youth Contacts

New! Youth contacts are aged 16-25 and here for vegan youth to email. To find out about being one, contact Sophie For a great vegan youth forum see www.veganbuddies.org.uk, select "Forum" then "Young Vegans".

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 13 Welcome to the Autumn 2006 Kids’ Pages

Bronwyn is 10 and has been a vegan all her life. Aisha, her sister, is 13 and has been vegan for 10 years and was a vegetarian even before she was born!

Aisha: This year at school, I’ll be finishing Welcome Aisha: We had fun. Bronwyn spent maths GCSE, and Bronwyn and I will to the most of her time in the stream, both be taking SATs. I’ve also got to Autumn paddling, but I didn’t get in. It was choose which other GCSEs I want to 2006 too cold! take too. I think I want to take Bronwyn: David and I met a boy History, French, German, and maybe Vegilantics there and he was canoeing in the Music. Page! We river. He taught me how to make a hope you all leaf float under the log across the had a lovely river. Sugar Free Flapjacks summer. Aisha: We went for a walk up a hill Bronwyn: We went to the Kingston near the campsite, and there was this Green Fair with Mummy. We went to bit where you could walk down a meet up with our friends Charlotte, valley to the river, and go across a log Izzy and Daniel. It was great. bridge to the other side. Aisha: The main reason we went was Bronwyn: We went over the river; to see Pama International, but the there was this little clearing where we stalls were very interesting. sat down for a little while. It was like Bronwyn: We also spent a week at a fairyland. All you could hear was 175g raisins granny’s house over the summer. With water rushing and birds singing. 225g oats granny and granddad, we do a lot of Aisha: It was beautiful there. 4tbs jam 175g margarine gardening and I always help granddad Everything was green. plant his geraniums. While we were Bronwyn: At school, we’ve been there, we went to John Milton’s doing the triangular games. This is Preheat the oven to 185˚c /gas mark 5 house. where we do running, jumping, Aisha: John Milton was a poet in the throwing and skipping against three Grease a baking tin with margarine 1600s, during the English Civil War. other schools. I came third in skipping or oil He wrote two extremely long poems and did really well in running. We did Put the margarine, raisins, and jam called Paradise Lost and Paradise four laps of the school field! into a saucepan, and heat gently Found. Aisha: I did lots at the end of last until melted Bronwyn: We also went to some term: I took the second exam in my GCSE Remove from heat and stir in the oats National Trust houses like Waddesdon maths course, and took end- of-year Manor and Claydon House. Granny tests in French, German, and history. Spread the mixture out in the baking went into the café at Waddesdon tin, smoothing out all the edges Manor to ask if they could make Bake for twenty minutes until vegan food for Aisha and I, and they golden and crisp said that they could. Florence Nightingale’s sister lived in Claydon Leave to cool, then mark into slices House. Florence spent most of her Leave in the pan until completely cold old age there, with her sister and brother-in-law. Bronwyn: We also went away to Aisha: A few weeks ago, Bronwyn Wales for the weekend with our and our friend Toby made some friends, Cathy and Alan and their son, flapjacks together. David. They have a new dog now, Bronwyn: They were really nice, so called Freya. She’s only a puppy, but here’s the recipe so you can make some she’s HUGE and really strong! yourself!

14 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 TYPICAL VEGAN?

Hi! My name is Flo and I live in Perth, Western Australia.

I am an Oceanographic Engineer, in the final year of my PhD studying coastal ocean dynamics.

This photo is of me on a research vessel in the Southern Ocean releasing a little sea-bird that sheltered on the ship overnight. They sometimes land on board all cold and wet and tired and we give them a place to sleep before letting them go near land the next day.

I love animals and that’s why I love being vegan!

I REDWOODS FUDGE GIVEAWAY, DON’T EAT IT ALL AT ONCE!

Redwoods vegan fudge is free from artificial colours and preservatives, it is cholesterol free, GM free and free from hydrogenated fats. Retail price £3.29.

The coconut ice is flavoured with raspberry juice, and the cranberry one has pieces of actual fresh cranberries in it. It is made in Devon using traditional methods with soya milk.

It is available mail order from Redwoods online at www.redwoodfoods.co.uk or telephone 01536 400557.

Redwoods are also giving away a pack of each flavour to the first 5 people selected. Please post entries marked ‘fudge giveaway’ to Redwoods, Burkitt Road, Earlstrees Ind. Est., Corby, Northamptonshire, NN17 4DT or email [email protected]

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 15 DIETARY DISRESPECT - THE END IS IN SIGHT

Vanessa Clarke

Vanessa Clarke considers how EU and UK legislation on equality treatment is offensive and unacceptable whether it is from a and diversity and the new Commission for Equality and Human restaurant, an airline or any other public outlet, it is Rights can help to ensure proper treatment of vegans in all downright dangerous in situations where people have no areas of life. choice but to eat what is provided on a regular or long-term basis. Again, the most numerous victims are the young, who ost vegans spend a great deal of time working for are still developing and need proper nutrition, the sick who Manimal rights – and rightly so, since non-human stand little chance of speedy recovery on an unbalanced, beings are the least favoured and most abused group of unappetising and unvarying diet – and, as ever, the old. all. But indifference and disrespect do not stop there. The very old and the Prospects for the future very young, people with disabilities, gays, women, people from minority At last, however, there is light at the ethnic and cultural groups all risk ‘if we get together end of the tunnel: the European being treated with less respect than Community has proclaimed that those those more able to speak up for with all the other with deeply held beliefs such as themselves. And vegans are no veganism are as much entitled to exception. groups at risk of respect and equality of treatment as any other group – and quite right too, The situation now since for many of us our vegan diet dietary disrespect – and lifestyle is more important than From the cradle to the grave, we are beset the culture or religion we happen to with examples of disrespect and ignorance. Adventists, have been born into because it is a Vitamin K is routinely administered to new- moral choice we have made for borns, but the vegan option was recently Buddhists, Hindus, ourselves. discontinued without consultation or notification, leaving vegans, Hindus and Jains, Jews, But there’s many a slip between other groups to remonstrate as best they acquiring a right and actually getting could about the bovine bile that now Muslims, it respected at the point of use. comes as a compulsory part of the Thanks to the Vegan Prisoners Support package. At the other end of the Group, much progress has already spectrum, I was appalled to find hospital Rastafarians, Sikhs, been made on behalf of those staff trying to get my 93-year-old mother detained in Her Majesty’s prisons, to eat ground beef despite the large sign the lactose though it can still be a long step from over her bed stating that she was a getting rights accepted in principle to lifelong vegetarian. Would they have fed intolerant and ensuring that the soya milk and ground pork to a Muslim or a Jew? Quite cruelty-free soap actually reach the possibly, so far as I could see. Yet there the ethical intended recipient. And we shall need was no intention to upset or harm anyone all the allies we can get if we are to – just overwork and failure to appreciate ensure proper respect for our diet and the fundamental importance of dietary vegetarians lifestyle in schools, hospitals, care practice to so many groups in our society. homes, canteens and all the other – we become a institutions where food is provided as Most of us have had the unpleasant and part of the service. unsatisfactory experience of asking for a force to be vegan meal and being given a standard How many Votes in Vegan? meal minus the meat, fish or dairy reckoned with.’ component, and going away hungry So – how best to use our new-found having been charged the same price as legal rights? As always, numbers everyone else. Whilst this kind of count. Until that happy day when

1016 The Vegan l WAutumninter 2003 2006 vegans constitute a majority of the n Do your work colleagues or college friends population, we have to accept that the enjoy the benefits of a canteen at average politician won’t have a lot of time lunchtime? What is the attitude to vegans? to devote to securing our rights. But if ‘It should not be a What would you like to see on the menu? we get together with all the other groups at risk of dietary disrespect – Adventists, struggle to ensure n Have you ever been in hospital? How Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, Jews, Muslims, did you fare as a vegan? Rastafarians, Sikhs, the lactose intolerant that people who and the ethical vegetarians – we become n Many people spend the latter years of a force to be reckoned with and in many their life in a retirement home and some constituencies a factor in electoral have spent their eventually move to a nursing home or a calculations. hospice. Have you any experience of lives campaigning this, whether first hand or through a A new Commission for Equality and vegan friend or relative? Human Rights is to replace the current Most institutions work to a very tight bodies dealing with race, sex and for veganism and budget, so we can’t expect celebrity disability. Among its duties will be to treatment. But many of the ingredients consult with the various interest groups animal rights routinely used could easily form part of and eventually to require all kinds of tasty and nutritious vegan meals. We institutions and authorities throughout should have their already have guidance available for the society to draw up plans showing how prison service and are working on similar they intend to meet the requirements of information for other areas. the new law, which covers the provision beliefs respected to of accommodation and catering as well Making sure that our views are as employment. The Commission will the end.’ known and respected also be able to offer information, advice and training on how to put this into It should not be a struggle to ensure that practice – always a crucial factor, since people who have spent their lives ignorance all too often begets campaigning for veganism and animal rights should have their defensiveness and even hostility when people simply don’t beliefs respected to the end. Nor should a vegan involved in an understand the needs of the diversity of groups whom they accident be tube fed unacceptable substances because no one serve and therefore have no idea how to meet them. understands (or cares?) about their views. A medallion or wristband engraved with “O positive – and VEGAN” might do the The way forward – and how everyone can help trick, or at least get people thinking. But what if you’re no longer able to take decisions for yourself? Unless you have made your In addition to ensuring that the new Commission consults the beliefs and wishes very clear, whether in a living will or by other Vegan Society from the outset, we need to have guidelines means, a non-vegan with power of attorney may fail to regard and even recipes ready for those doing their best to your veganism as important – or simply fail to think of it at all. implement the new rights. The Society is therefore embarking on a major advocacy campaign approved by Thanks to the detective work of Kirsten Jungsberg from Denmark, Council earlier this year. We shall be seeking to get the a number of us were privileged to meet Vegan Society Patron and subject raised in Parliament as well as liaising with a variety activist Serena Coles in the last couple of years of her life and of other interest groups. We shall also be gathering to witness her joy at being surrounded by vegans and enjoying information on the current state of play in various areas and vegan food with admirers of all ages at her 94.5th and 95th preparing advice and guidance to make it easier for those birthday celebrations. But it took a lot of effort by a lot of responsible to treat us with the respect to which we are people to achieve this. And it will take a lot more effort by entitled in every aspect of our lives. even more people to ensure that all vegans are accorded the respect and the equality of treatment to which we are entitled But we shall need a very great deal of help, so do have a at every stage and in every area of our lives. think and see what you can contribute. Cash is always very welcome, but information is equally crucial – and virtually Further (rather heavy) reading: every member is in a position to offer that. For instance, The text of the Equality Act n Are your school dinners dead awful (dead as well as www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2006/ukpga_20060003_en.pdf awful)? Tell us whether you get vegan food at school and if so, what it’s like, and if not, what excuses they give. The Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003 What would you like them to serve? www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2003/20031660.htm

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 17 ANIMAL LIBERATION: AN INTERVIEW WITH PROFESSOR PETER SINGER

Rosamund Raha

eter Singer is Professor of Bioethics Given that you are a utilitarian But what about a long term Pat Princeton University and is one philosopher who believes that it is scenario where animals are no of the world’s best known living the consequences of our actions longer bred for human use, and philosophers. His book ‘Animal that are important, do you accept natural (i.e. not selectively bred or Liberation’ is taught as part of the that treating other animals as genetically modified) breeds of ethics curriculum in universities human property usually leads to animal are allowed to roam free? worldwide and has caused many more suffering for them than if they people to reconsider their relationship were given their freedom? Tragically, we’ve destroyed so much with other animals. His latest book habitat that for some species, this is co-written with Jim Mason The Way not a great option. Chimpanzees, We Eat: Why Our Food Choices bonobos, gorillas and orang-utans, for Matter was published in the US in example, have few safe havens now. May by Rodale, and will be published ‘speciesism So – in the real world, anyway, rather in the UK, in September by Random than in some utopia – it might still be House. best for some species to live under refers to human control and protection. Rosamund Raha puts a few questions to him: discrimination I have read that you are vegan as far as you consider practical given You have written a great many your busy lifestyle. However, in philosophical books on a wide on the basis the book you have just written variety of subjects from Hegel to with Jim Mason, on food, you Practical Ethics. Do your books on of species, not discuss whether it is acceptable to animal liberation have a special eat humanely raised meat; what is interest for you? to discrimination your position on this? Definitely. It’s the cause I most strongly Sorry, but you’re going to have to identify with, although I’m also wait until the book comes out! That’s particularly concerned about global on the basis not just to tease you, but also because poverty. And it is also the cause to I don’t want to try to answer a which I feel I have made the greatest of cognitive complicated question in a sentence or personal contribution. two. The discussion of that question . in the book is quite extensive, and it Yes, and I believe that you tithe capacities ’ gets philosophically complex. For 20% of your earnings to charity. Is instance, we consider the argument this something you believe we that if animals have good lives, then should all do? even if they are killed to be eaten, that is better for them than not I think that all of us who have money to I don’t see those as the only options. existing at all. I don’t think you can spare on luxuries – and remember that Giving most animals in human captivity reject that claim as just absurd or silly, buying a can of Coke is a luxury beyond their freedom would be a disaster. The but discussing it gets into tricky the reach of more than two billion people great majority of them are young philosophical issues. on this planet – should be giving a chickens, and most of them would significant portion of it to the cause or simply starve. Nor do I favour releasing causes that, in their judgment, stands pigs and cattle into the countryside. If or when laboratory grown meat the best chance of reducing suffering or But that doesn’t mean that they have to (i.e. meat grown from a few making the world a better place. I won’t remain property. They could have the animal cells) becomes available, put an exact figure on it, because that status of humans who are unable to would you eat it? varies with everyone’s circumstances. look after themselves. We appoint But those who don’t have money to guardians to take care of them, and the If it were cost-effective, and produced spare can often give some of their time guardians are required to act in the best by methods that did not harm the to work for such causes. interests of the wards. environment, yes, I’d eat it.

18 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 Especially if no animal would have In your work you say that a human animals to suffer (i.e. by selectively suffered to produce it. new born baby is not a person breeding cows for high milk yield, because it is unaware of itself taking their calves from them at an Yes, of course, that is what I was assuming. existing over time and therefore early age etc). What are your views has no real sense of self. Many on this? Conservationists often believe that animals that are farmed for meat it is more important to preserve such as pigs, cows, sheep and even It all depends on what you mean by “a species than consider the needs of birds demonstrate behaviours that viable scale”. For people seeking self- individual animals. Where do you suggest that they are aware of sufficiency on a few acres of land, there stand in this debate? themselves existing over time: does is no problem of scale. In any case, dairy this make them people? products may not be the best case for I’m largely on the side of the individual those who want to produce animal animals. I do think species preservation is products on a large scale without causing important, but if it came to a choice suffering. What about eggs? Obviously between the suffering of millions of the male chicks are going to be killed, as animals, or the loss of a species, then, ‘if it came to a are hens who are no longer laying well, difficult as the choice would be, I would but that can be done without causing say that, regrettably, we have to lose choice between the suffering. So I don’t see why free range the species. egg production need involve the infliction of suffering on nonhuman animals. In her article From Speciesism to suffering of millions But given that high welfare free Equality in the Summer 2005 edition range egg production could produce of The Vegan magazine, Joan Dunayer of animals, or the only a fraction of the eggs currently accuses you of being a ‘New produced, and given the added Speciesist’ who favours the loss of a species, complication of Bird Flu (which if protection of certain select animals restricted to wild birds, scientists such as primates and dolphins over expect would mutate back to a less other sentient animals such as rats, then, difficult as the virulent form), in practice a vegan birds, reptiles, amphibians and world is surely the only solution? fishes. How would you defend choice would be, I yourself against such an accusation? Bird flu might prove to be a temporary would say that, scare that fades away. We don’t yet know. I do think that there are morally relevant But undoubtedly, to avoid inflicting differences between various species, suffering on animals – not to mention the because the cognitive capacities of beings regrettably, we have environmental costs of intensive animal are relevant to, for example, the wrongness production – we need to cut down of killing them. I think it is worse to kill to lose the species.’ drastically on the animal products we a self-aware being, that is, a being who consume. But does that mean a vegan is aware of its own existence over time, world? That’s one solution, but not and is able to have desires for the future, necessarily the only one. If it is the than a being who may be conscious, but infliction of suffering that we are is not self-aware and lives in a kind of If the behaviour really does concerned about, rather than killing, eternal present. (It’s the difference, as the demonstrate that they are aware of then I can also imagine a world in which philosopher James Rachels put it, between themselves as existing over time, then people mostly eat plant foods, but a biographical life and a biological life). yes, they are “persons” in the sense in occasionally treat themselves to the which I [following philosophers in luxury of free range eggs, or possibly Of course, people can reasonably earlier times, like Boethius and Locke] even meat from animals who live good disagree about what characteristics do use the term. But a lot will depend on lives under conditions natural for their make a difference. But to take such what you count as evidence of species, and are then humanely killed differences, or other features of a awareness over time. There is ample on the farm. As I said, you’ll have to being’s mental life into consideration, evidence for chimpanzees and other read the book to get the full version of isn’t speciesism. The term “speciesism” great apes, and very strong evidence for my views, and those of my co-author, refers to discrimination on the basis of elephants. For the species you Jim Mason, on this. species, not to discrimination on the mention, the evidence seems to me to basis of cognitive capacities. Once you be variable, and often suggestive rather I am sure that we will receive plenty say that giving greater protection to any than conclusive. of letters about your last answer, beings over any other beings is but thank you very much for “speciesism” you’ve reduced the value Many vegans believe that it is only generating debate on this subject. of the term to zero, because then possible to produce meat, milk and giving greater protection to a cow than eggs for human consumption on a The Way We Eat: Why Our Food a cabbage also becomes “speciesism”. viable scale by causing non-human Choices Matter is reviewed on page 33.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 19

AN INTERVIEW WITH WENDY TURNER-WEBSTER

Rosamund Raha

he author, TV presenter, actress and Vegan Society hypocrital at wearing leather. I must admit that saying Tpatron Wendy Turner-Webster has done a great deal goodbye to cheese was the hardest thing so was thrilled to raise public awareness of animal welfare issues. when Redwoods brought out their super melting vegan Rosamund Raha caught up with her to see what she is cheese! working on at the moment ……. Are there any foods that you would like to be vegan I have heard that you have written a novel that will be but aren’t? published next year. Could you tell us a bit more about it? Yes, eggs! I wish someone would come up with a vegan substitute for a boiled or fried egg! And all those sweets My literary agent has given me a deadline of September to which have gelatine in them! I’m convinced there is an finish the novel I am currently working on so every day at the animal-friendly alternative and wish the manufacturers moment is spent slaving over a hot would do something about it. It would computer! It’s called The End of Roxanne be great if Guinness were animal North and draws on my own experience friendly, too. of domestic violence during my first marriage. It’s an exciting venture but has ‘I have been a What do you consider the greatest also been rather depressing to work on achievement of your life so far? at times. I really enjoy writing and indeed vegan for about 15 my first job in the media was as Having our two children, Jack and Commercial Script Writer for local radio. Freddie. Jack is 6 and Freddie is three years when I found and a half. Finishing my book will be What other projects are you currently my second greatest achievement! working on? out more about the How has it been bringing up your I film for a satellite station called The children as vegan? Baby Channel…everything you ever dairy industry and wanted to know about babies and Jack and Freddie are vegetarian. When parenting! I have also written some began to feel rather we had Jack, Gary was a meat-eater children’s books which I am keen to get and we agreed that a veggie baby was published after I have finished writing the hypocrital at a good compromise. Since then, aforementioned novel. however, Gary has stopped eating meat. Jack and Freddie both thrived on Gary and I were honoured to be at The wearing leather.’ soya milk formula as babies and enjoy House of Lords last week to celebrate the all the meat and dairy substitutes I life of Lord Stratford (Tony Banks) and we stock in the fridge. Both boys are are both looking forward to doing all we brought up to respect all animal life – can to support Sally Banks’ Seal not the usual notion that some animals Campaign, aiming to stop the annual seal cull in Canada. are for petting and some are for eating! We have four fish, two rescue guinea pigs and a pony and they love spending I am Patron of the Born Free Foundation, Parrot Line, Viva!, time with them all. The Humane Research Trust and Animal Lifeline and like to get involved whenever possible with their campaign projects. I also What message do you have for people who are work with Animal Defenders – most recently on the Animal considering becoming vegan? Welfare Bill to stop the use of animals in circuses. Live with a clear conscience! You won’t miss out on any How long have you been vegan and what motivated tastes or flavours (apart from the fried egg!) and you may you to make this ethical stand? feel fitter and healthier in the long term, too. Animal- friendly shoes, clothes and food are all out there for the I have been a vegan for about 15 years when I found out taking and enjoying. And finally, if you think you love more about the dairy industry and began to feel rather animals – don’t eat them!

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 21

VEGANISM – THE NEGLECTED ENVIRONMENTAL ARGUMENT

Stephen Fenwick-Paul, Network Contact

t long last concern for the If we take the above meat-eater and Changing from a 4-litre 4x4 to a Aenvironment is now an entrenched change their diet to a mainly imported typical saloon car would save 0.9 part of the vocabulary of all the and processed one, their food footprint hectares and changing from that major political parties. The question alone climbs to 1.9 hectares, a figure 4x4 to a hybrid would save about our impact on the planet has that is beyond the 1.8 hectares available around 1.7 hectares. Moving to moved on from discussing if there is to every citizen of the planet. If we now a vegan diet is similar to a problem to what we should do change the vegan diet to mainly replacing one of the most and who should do it. imported and processed food the land thirsty cars on the market to a requirement stays at 0.5 hectares. Air hybrid. I recently attended a public meeting run miles are not a significant factor for by Friends of the Earth where we asked vegan food. The adoption of a vegan At the Friends of the Earth our local politicians if they were doing diet is far more beneficial for the Conference 2005 a motion was enough to stop climate change. All environment than choosing to adopted to ‘consider recognising present said what was required of them, follow a local, unprocessed meat- the need to promote plant-based we only had to judge the commitment based diet. diets and encourage a reduction behind their statements. It became in meat, fish and dairy obvious that the environmental concerns Is changing your diet significant consumption on environmental highlighted most by large environmental compared to other factors in your ground’ but the response from campaigning organisations were the lifestyle? the Board of Friends of the Earth issues the politicians had most knowledge watered down the implementation and concern about. Typically, these were 25 hours of flying a year adds 1.5 to an ‘idea of less but better transport issues based around car and hectares to your footprint. Moving to a meat, plus information and air travel. One issue was absent from the vegan diet is similar to saving 25 advice.’ discussions, and that was diet. hours of air travel a year. Environmental organisations The Earthday Network is a non-political Giving up the average car and replacing often accuse politicians of organisation whose goal is to educate all the journeys with public transport would lagging behind the public in parts of society on what they can do to reduce your footprint by just 0.7 respect to environmental help the planet. Their website, hectares. Adopting a vegan diet is far concerns yet it seems those www.earthday.net, provides an more important than abandoning organisation may at the same environmental footprint calculator from your car, though both are good moves time be struggling to keep up which you can calculate the number of for the planet. with their own members. hectares required to sustain your lifestyle and hence how many planets would be required if everyone lived like you. In the UK the average environmental footprint is 5.8 hectares. If we divided the planet among the world’s population and each was given an equal part we would all get only 1.8 hectares.

The Earthday calculator is of special interest because it asks questions about diet. I spent some time isolating the effects of different lifestyle choices on the calculator. The results will surprise not only meat-eaters but environmentalists too and should make them reconsider the lifestyle changes they are asking of the UK population.

If you eat meat and diary every day but your food is mainly local and unprocessed you will require 1.6 hectares to sustain your eating habits. If you are vegan you will require just 0.5 hectares.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 23 RECIPES

Helen Edwards

SCRAMBLED TOFU Serves 2

This wonderfully light scrambled tofu works well with almost any vegetables. Serve as brunch with potatoes, as breakfast or supper on toast, or take out for lunch in a wrap.

1 Tbsp olive oil 1 medium white onion, chopped finely 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 ⁄4 (40g) green capsicum pepper, finely diced 4-5 (50g) mushrooms, sliced 1 tsp tomato puree 340g (1 pack) firm silken tofu, drained 1 tsp dried mixed herbs

Heat oil in a frying pan or large saucepan. Add the onions. Cook for 2 minutes, over a low heat, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula. Add garlic and green pepper and continue to cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously. Add mushroom and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously. Add tomato puree to pan and mix well. Add block of tofu to pan. Break down into small pieces resembling scrambled egg using a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix into vegetables. Add the herbs and mix. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

GREEN AND GOLD STAR BURST SALAD Serves 2

In this stunning salad, dark green 1 lime spinach leaves are brought to life 100ml white wine vinegar with exotic golden-yellow papaya. 2-3 tsp caster sugar The sharpness of the dressing is 75 ml olive oil tempered by the sweetness of the 2 medium papaya papaya. Broken papaya seeds add 2 tbsp reserved papaya seeds a peppery flavour to the dressing. 150g baby spinach leaves

To make the dressing, squeeze the lime and place the juice with Add the the vinegar and the sugar in a blender and mix. reserved papaya seeds and blend Continue blending while slowly adding the oil. Do not worry if until the seeds are you still have two separate layers at this point. broken into small pieces. Taste the dressing with a small piece of papaya flesh for Cut the papaya into quarters. Scoop out the black seeds with a sweetness. (If tasted alone, it will appear sharp, but this will be spoon. Reserve 2 Tbsp of the seeds, discarding the rest. Slice countered by the sweetness of the papaya when served.) each quarter of the papaya into 3 or 4 slices, and cut off the skin with a sharp knife and discard. Add 75g of flesh (or about a For the salad, lay the spinach leaves on a serving plate. Arrange quarter of one of the papayas) to the blender and blend until the reserved papaya flesh on the leaves, like the spokes of a smooth. Reserve the rest of the flesh. wheel. Drizzle as much of the dressing as required on top.

The dressing may be kept for 1-2 days in the fridge. If the dressing separates into 2 layers on standing, recombine by stirring or shaking gently.

24 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 PECAN AND ORANGE COOKIES Makes 10 cookies REVIEW

125g plain flour Eat n two Veg appeared different 25g soya flour from other veggie restaurants we’d 1 ⁄2 tsp ground cinnamon been to: an upmarket diner with a 1 ⁄4 tsp bicarbonate of soda vibrant atmosphere. We sat at one of the intimate American style diner 60g pecans, chopped booths that lined the walls. 100g caster sugar Unfortunately we were informed 90g vegan margarine there were no vegan wines available that evening so we opted for a jug of Pimms instead, which came packed with fresh fruit; 4tsp malted brown rice syrup very refreshing. 1 tsp vanilla extract grated orange zest from 2 oranges On first glance at the menu there seemed to be a reasonable choice of vegan-friendly dishes. Toby is wheat-intolerant, which we thought might make things a little trickier but luckily there was at least one vegan, gluten-free option for every course. For starters I chose the Crispy Aromatic Luck, crispy veg protein served with pancakes, hoi sin and plum sauce, spring onion, cucumber and coriander. This was beautifully presented with the pancakes arriving stacked in a bamboo basket ready to be filled with sliced vegetables and a very authentic tasting sauce. I enjoyed the novelty of ‘rolling my own.’ Toby opted for the Thai satay, which consisted of Thai soya skewers and a spicy peanut sauce. Although it wasn’t quite as nicely presented as my dish, the texture was good but a little salad wouldn’t have gone amiss.

For mains we had ‘Eat V Kebab,’ grilled marinated skewers served with fresh greens and puy lentils in gravy; very tasty but remarkably and rather disconcertingly like lamb! The Lancashire Hotpot consisted of hearty chunks of (extraordinarily beef like) soya in truly delightful gravy, fresh vegetables and a creamy mash; perfect for a chilly damp evening. Preheat the oven to 180˚C. Despite there being only one vegan dessert featured on the Sift the plain flour, soya flour, ground cinnamon and menu (fruit crumble), we discovered there were more possibilities bicarbonate of soda together into a large bowl. on offer. I opted for a cinnamon pear, which was beautifully Add the pecans and caster sugar to the bowl and mix. poached and served with vegan caramel and nut ice cream. Heat the margarine gently (in a saucepan on the hob, or Toby retained a childlike grin throughout his large bowl of in a suitable dish in the microwave oven) until it has just chocolate and caramel & nut ice cream. started to melt, and reaches a pourable constituency (avoid overheating as it will split). Stuffed with good food and Pimms we somehow managed to Add the malted brown rice syrup, vanilla extract and find room for a conscientiously crafted Mojito and Capirinha. grated orange zest to the melted fat and mix. Pour the liquid into the dry ingredients and mix well to create a In terms of firm dough. adventurous food Divide the dough into 10 equal portions (of about 2 and vibrant Tbsp, or 45g, each). Shape each portion into rounds, ambience we felt and place on a baking sheet lined with baking Eat n Two Veg parchment. Bake for about 12 minutes, until just turning offered something golden. different from the Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes average vegetarian on the baking sheet, then transfer the baking parchment eatery, suitable for and cookies onto a rack to cool. any clientele at Remove from the baking parchment and store in an any time of day. airtight container.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 25 DIRECT ACTION: RIGHT OR WRONG? Dave Palmer

very protest or act of civil Certainly the mass media is not going to This action did not lead to mass public Edisobedience carried out in the positively promote any philosophy which condemnation, in fact the activist filmed name of Animal Rights (AR) is is detrimental to the majority of their with the brick was interviewed by many extremism, if the media and advertisers. news organisations, including such UK government are to be believed. stalwarts as Newsnight. If anything, this Without doubt there are extremist example of direct action led to more actions carried out (as there are in people becoming involved in the protest, many struggles for social change) not just at Shoreham, but all other ports but the majority of actions carried ‘Certainly the too – the unbiased media reporting of out for AR fall into two categories – the time showing that mass public liberation of captive beings and mass media is protest could achieve something (live economic sabotage against those exports were soon banned from all ports who profit from the enslavement not going to and airports in the UK, though they later and killing of sentient beings. resumed through Dover alone) and that if enough people make a stand, then a It is often stated that actions such as the positively difference will be made. firebombing of vivisectors’ cars have a negative impact on the movement as promote any Aside from the media, there are also the media focuses on these extremist concerns from within the movement minority actions rather than on the philosophy which that high profile direct action is harming arguments for our recognition of the case for animal rights. Often it is nonhuman animals as fellow beings, not is detrimental to argued that liberating a few hundred commodities. This image is then animals from a laboratory animal assumed by the public to be representative the majority of breeder or battery hen unit achieves of AR/vegan protesters/activists despite nothing when looked at from the being referred to as ‘a minority element’. perspective of the billions of animals their advertisers.’ that are killed each year by these The opposing view is that both the industries – and that more animals will government and the media have be bred to replace those taken. financial and other beneficial links with companies which either carry out animal For those of us who can remember the experiments or commission them (and highs of the eighties and nineties, one certainly profit from them) so without of our most discerning memories must the extremist actions, there would be be that of a convoy of live export trucks very little reporting of the Animal Rights at Shoreham being held up by masses of movement, if any at all. Evidence of this concerned citizens, whilst a group of is the hysteria over the assault on the activists climbed onto the cab of one of Managing Director of Huntingdon Life the trucks and smashed the windscreen, Sciences but the complete lack of media etc. Images of an activist, brick in hand, coverage of the hundreds of assaults leaning over the top of the cab and which have been carried out against AR damaging the windscreen were campaigners (a significant majority being broadcast not just across the UK, but assaults against hunt saboteurs) over the the whole world as mass protests of the last three or four decades, including live export campaign had captured the three deaths. imagination of many countries.

26 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 The ‘breed more’ argument is unjustified Balanced conclusions on the effects of simply because more animals are bred AR actions can only be drawn when all than are deemed necessary, so aspects of the situation have been taken thousands – perhaps millions – of into account – the suffering of the animals are killed each year by the animals, the extent of the damage breeders because they are not needed caused to save the animals from pain by the animal torturers or the meat and suffering, the resultant hysteria in eating public. Saving a tiny percentage the press, etc. As campaigners/activists of animals from such establishments it is not our duty to cast judgement on may seem an insignificant act, but it’s a those who choose to risk their freedom very significant act to each individual Acts of liberation also act as a to save sentient beings from imprisonment animal who is taken from a life of psychological boost to the movement; and suffering; it is our duty to ensure deprivation, pain and suffering and successful liberations increase morale the public have all possible information given a loving home/family/life. and serve as a reminder that though the relating to animal suffering so that those end to industralized animal abuse may who are not blinkered by the biased not be in sight, a difference can be (and media reporting can make up their own is) made on an individual level; each individual minds. liberated being is symbolic of the aims ‘...whilst grave of the AR movement.

robbery may be What must be done, when engaging in discussions of ‘direct action’ with considered a members of the public, is to differentiate the various acts which are part of the all-encompassing term ‘direct action’. disgusting act For instance, whilst grave robbery may be considered a disgusting act by many, by many, these these people would probably not have the same abhorrence to an act such as people would breaking a padlock to rescue tortured or suffering beings. probably not have the same abhorrence to an act such as breaking a padlock to rescue tortured or suffering beings.’

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 27

CURIOUS VEGETABLES: A QUESTION OF COLOUR

Bill Laws

Although nutty, purple Brussels sprouts are rumoured to beautie as in goodness’ (the crushed root was a healing saviour be a favourite of the Prince of Wales, we are a when applied to an infected wound or insect bite). Cider- conservative crowd when it comes to brightly coloured makers like to add a beetroot or two to their apple pressing veg. I passed around some free crudités, including the because it gives the cider a golden, autumnal tint. dramatic blue potato, Salad Blue, at Abergavenny Food Festival a couple of years back. The entire audience But you can’t beat beet for sweetness especially fresh from the refused the potatoes. allotment or veg. plot, (avoid those cold, bland, pre- cooked, pre-skinned and pre-packed One fearsomely coloured vegetable, which most of us are happy beetroot). Here’s my favourite recipe: to eat, is Beta vulgaris, the beetroot. The plague of those with wrap fresh, washed beetroot in foil, slip wooden sink drainers (remove beet stains by sprinkling them them into the oven to bake for 15 minutes. with salt and rubbing vigorously), beetroot was once known as When they’re done, slide the skins off by ‘Roman beet,’ because it was the Romans who first cooked the hand (a hopping-hot job), drizzle with swollen root. The Greeks were perfectly satisfied with the leaf balsamic vinegar and serve dressed with alone and these days even supermarkets are slipping tender, red- baby spinach leaves. Delicious. veined beet leaves into their micro-salads. Bill Laws is the author of Spade, Skirret and The great sixteenth-century gardener John Gerard declared ‘the Parsnip - The Curious History of Vegetables beautiful roote .... is to be preferred before the leaves, as well in (Sutton Publishing).

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 29 GROW VEGAN Rob Jackson, a student at the Welsh College of Horticulture, relates his experiences

ince October 2005 I’ve been INVEST IN THE FUTURE! A MESSAGE Svolunteering full time at the Welsh Grow Vegan Puzzler FROM THE VEGAN-ORGANIC NETWORK College of Horticulture, working on their 3-hectare farm that is certified What will increase bio-diversity? The present students of Stockfree-Organic under the new stockfree-organic Send your answers on a agriculture are the people who will be standards. I work five days a week but postcard to: The Vegan farming using these methods in the future. take one day out during term time to Society (address details on Those who support vegan principles should st study for an HNC in organic horticulture, page 1) by 31 August 2006 surely help to promote this. To do everything which takes two years. We supply and you may win a copy of possible to encourage students and to produce for a local box-scheme and sell Animal Equality by Joan Dunayer. advance our general aims, VON has set up directly to retailers and wholesalers. the Growing Green International Student Answer to Summer Grow Vegan Puzzler: So far I’m really enjoying my time here Bursary Fund. This permanent fund has the dent-de-lion, literally ‘lion’s tooth’ on account and learning a lot. of the sharply lobed leaves of the plant. support of the Movement for Winner Debbie Deboo from Essex Compassionate Living and the Vegan I often had dreams of self-sufficiency, Society. inspired by my own grandparents’ back- garden growing but it seemed these desires Green manures are a crucial addition to Your own support for the fund will help would go unsatisfied. However, once I these rotations: they allow for the soil to ensure that potential vegan and vegetarian finished university I sensed it was time to rest and to feed, protect it from erosion students of Stockfree-Organic who go for it. Being in no financial position to and nutrient leaching, and increase the undertake to grow and/or promote these purchase land or property, in fact being amounts of organic matter. The inclusion methods are not discouraged by lack of quite in debt after years of study, voluntary of wildlife features to increase biodiversity financial resources. Please help by sending work was the only way I could get into helps to keep pest species in control and your donations to the fund, payable to farming and growing. The Vegan-Organic makes the land more productive, while also VON, to the address below; this could be Network (VON) helped me to find my making the farm a more pleasant place to be. the best investment you will ever make! current placement and I have since become Further details will gladly be provided. the co-ordinator of the VON farm list and volunteers, helping others to find If you are interested in finding practical placements too. experience on Stockfree-Organic holdings you should obtain a copy of VON’s Farm On the course we follow four modules in List, free to VON members. the first year and three in the second. So far we’ve studied plant and soil science, Bursary Fund donations & information: plant protection, organic practices and [email protected] principles, and habitat management. This Tel: 0161 860 4869 of course means coursework and exams, something I thought I had left behind! The Or write to: VON, ‘Anandavan,’ 58 High organics class is small and cosy, meaning Lane, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester we get plenty of chance for bonding and good debate, though we join with other M21 9DZ groups for some modules. We are presently Vegan-Organic farming is a wholly more trying out different types of commercial sustainable form of crop production. For VON membership details write to the animal-free organic composts and will let Animal farming is not only cruel, it is above or email [email protected] readers of The Vegan know the results. unnecessarily wasteful. The amount of land, water, labour and energy necessary to Farm list details, membership & general Out on the land I get to see all I learn in keep, breed and farm domesticated enquiries to 0845 223 5232 (local rate) class put into practice and I’m gaining animals could be put to much better use valuable experience for the future. growing food for direct human consumption. The Vegan-Organic Network (VON) Rotations are one of the most important This is one of the main ways that veganism registered charity 1080847 will help you to aspects of growing food at this scale: has been proved to me to be the only real ‘grow your own’. Join VON and help our moving groups of crops around from year answer for the future. Environmentally movement to grow! to year means that the soil is worked at friendly, efficient, sustainable, compassionate: different depths and stops pest and there is no reason to differentiate between Visit the VON website at disease problems from building up. these; they quite easily go hand in hand. www.veganorganic.net

30 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 N NUTRITION NEWS Stephen Walsh

cience and the media are uncomfortable partners. FELICITY LAWRENCE ON SOYA SScience proceeds by gradual accumulation of interrelated evidence, while the media seek novelty or Soya was thoroughly reviewed in the last issue of The Vegan, dramatic messages. Two striking examples of this so I shall not belabour this point save to illustrate how myths appeared in The Guardian recently. can be sustained on the flimsiest of bases and to stress the importance of a healthy scepticism. GEORGE MONBIOT ON FISH On 25th July, Felicity Lawrence presented a long article On 20th June, George Monbiot bemoaned declining fish suggesting that soya should carry a health warning. stocks and claimed that lack of long-chain omega-3s from fish (EPA and DHA) heralded a collapse in human intelligence, The alleged toxicity of soya was carefully reviewed in 2002 by which could be redeemed only by exotic (and expensive) the Government Committee on Toxicity (CoT), who found little algae-derived substitutes. Plant omega-3s were dismissed: evidence of toxicity but also limited evidence of any special health promoting properties. Despite the lack of direct evidence, ‘Some plants - such as flax and hemp - contain omega-3 the committee adopted precautionary recommendations on the oils, but not the long-chain varieties our cell membranes use of soya by infants, women with certain types of breast need. Only some people can convert them, and even cancer and individuals with impaired thyroid function. Felicity then slowly and inefficiently.’ Lawrence, however, seized on some comments about possible adverse effects and made them sound like a clear and present This claim, which is in danger of becoming an urban myth danger. and even promoted by some vegans, is highly misleading. The article offered no new information but did attempt to Independent trials in human volunteers have shown the main resuscitate some old myths. Japanese consumption of soya plant omega-3 – alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) – to be was dismissed with the assertion that ‘Asians did not actually consistently about 10% as effective as fish oil omega-3s in eat that much.’ In fact, for the past half century Japanese raising blood levels of EPA. This means that you need ten consumption has averaged 10 grams of soya protein per day times as much ALA as fish oil omega-3s to get the same (equivalent to about 100 grams of tofu). Few people in the effect. However, average UK intake of ALA is almost ten UK, including vegans, will eat much more than this. While times (0.5% of calories) that of the longer chain omega-3s Japan’s top position in the world health stakes does not prove (just 0.07%), so the net contribution to blood EPA is that soya is a wonder food, it makes it highly unlikely to be a comparable. More natural diets, centred on wild vegetables threat to health. and fruits, would provide about 3% of calories as ALA - more than sufficient to give healthy blood levels of omega-3s. Soya oil was condemned by Ms Lawrence as ‘one of the reasons our balance of omega-3 to omega-6 essential fatty Blood levels of EPA are reduced by consumption of the most acids is so out of kilter’. In fact, with an omega-6 to omega-3 common omega-6 fat – linoleic acid (LA) – which has increased ratio of 7 to 1, soya oil has a better ratio than the average in in recent decades due to increased use of predominantly Western diets and therefore acts as a moderating influence omega-6 oils such as corn and sunflower oil. The ratio of LA (though rapeseed, hempseed and flaxseed are all better for to ALA has therefore increased from a natural level of around restoring a healthy balance). 2 to 1 to more than 10 to 1. This, rather than any lack of fish oil, is the dietary change that requires correction. The article also claims that soya is a threat to healthy thyroid function. In common with similarly ‘dangerous’ items such as The imbalance is easily remedied by cutting high omega-6 oils cabbage, soya is a goitrogen and in the presence of low iodine to reduce LA intake to more natural levels and adding a intake may impair thyroid function. The cure, however, is not heaped tablespoon of ground flaxseed (or a teaspoon of to avoid cabbage and soya but to ensure an adequate iodine flaxseed oil) per day. As flaxseed has more omega-3 than intake and follow a reasonably varied diet. omega-6, small amounts are sufficient to shift the overall balance to a more natural level and thus provide Almost any food can be made to look dangerous by adequate omega-3 levels in the body. Alternatively, high peering at it closely enough. If it is genuinely omega-6 oils can be replaced with rapeseed oil, which is harmful there will be good direct human evidence mostly monounsaturated and has a 2 to 1 ratio of showing this. In the case of soya, the evidence leans omega-6 to omega-3. the other way. It can therefore be consumed in moderation with confidence. We can therefore safely join Albert Einstein in recommending a meatless and fishless diet without For further information on good health from plant worrying that we are somehow missing out on ‘brain foods, see Plant Based Nutrition and Health, food’. available from the Vegan Society.

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32 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 Reviews

Johanna Best, Vanessa Clarke and Rosamund Raha

Spicy Vegan The Animals’ Lawsuit Against Humanity Growing Green By Sudha Raina by Ikhwan as-Safa – Organic Publishers: published by Fons Vitae Techniques for Athena Press Cover Price £12.99 a Sustainable ISBN Available from The Vegan Society Future 1-84401-249-2 Jenny Hall Cover Price This beautifully illustrated Muslim Sufi tale of and Iain £10.99 animal rights and human abuse is as relevant Tolhurst today as when it was first written in tenth century Iraq. Published by The As the weather When things start to go wrong on the idyllic island of Tsagone Vegan Organic Network cools down and autumn makes – which bears a striking resemblance to the Garden of Eden ISBN: 095522250-8 Cover Price: £18.99 her presence felt, spicing up our – and humans begin to exploit, abuse and even eat their mealtimes is a great way to warm fellow inhabitants, the animals elect representatives to plead Growing Green is an essential the body and soul. Spicy Vegan is their case at the court of the King of the Spirits. The humans reference guide for all organic a collection of over 130 delicious in turn claim that they were given dominion over the planet growers, researchers and Indian recipes including exciting and all its inhabitants and can therefore do as they like. students. The book introduces vegetable dishes, breads, pickles After much to-ing and fro-ing and some very modern argument the concept of stockfree-organic and sweet dishes. Based on North – as well as some richly comic episodes -– the King finds in growing, and illustrates with Indian home cooking, Spicy Vegan favour of the animals and warns the humans that if they don’t the use of case studies that by offers a very accessible road to the mend their ways they will destroy not only the planet and abandoning the use of Indian kitchen with handy tips and their fellow creatures but themselves as well. All’s well that slaughterhouse by-products helpful explanations of the ends well, however, and the repentant humans are allowed and manures growers can be required ingredients making it easy to return to their previous state of grace (and their vegan diet!) rewarded with healthier crops to create the dishes yourself - a celebrating their new relationship with the rest of creation. with fewer weeds, pests and great consolation for us vegans diseases. Suitable for growing An entertaining and enlightening read for all ages and a super who have to forgo the dairy-laden novices to the experienced gift for anyone wishing to promote animal rights and human naan bread and kulfis in Indian professional, the book provides understanding both within and between the different faiths restaurants. Of course, whipping of the wealth of animal-friendly material in the Islamic a step-by-step guide through up a plate of samosas, paalak tradition and even in the Koran itself, there is also an each stockfree-organic standard aaloo or coconut fudge will also appendix giving further information on sources – a useful and instructs the reader how seriously impress even your non- resource in its own right and a valuable addition to a to grow and sell 60 different vegan friends. charming tale. vegetables with confidence.

The Way We Eat: Why Our Food Choices Matter Peter Singer and Jim Mason Published in the US in May by Rodale Will be published in the UK in September by Random House ISBN 1-57954-889-X Price: £12.99

Well argued and beautifully written, this book illustrates the cruelty of factory farming and its detrimental impact on people, non-human animals and the environment by comparing the diets of three families: one standard American family with a predominantly meat, eggs and dairy-based diet; one family who eat mostly locally produced organic food (including some animal products) and one vegan family.

Their food is traced from the start of the food chain to the plate. In the process cruel factory farming practices are described, worker exploitation is exposed and the environmental impact of meat-based diets is explored.

The book is full of well-researched information, for example they argue that imported produce in season is often more environmentally friendly than out-of-season home-produced food which may have been grown indoors with lights and heating.

This is not a book that presents veganism as the only option for sustainable and ethical food production, but it certainly leans in a vegan direction and is well worth reading.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 33 DEAR VEGAN SOCIETY...

B12 is produced by bacteria and Unfortunately many of them do contain no animal can produce B12 for animal derivatives. The only way to be themselves. Land animals therefore sure is to buy products carrying the Our canine teeth are called that obtain the vitamin either directly Stockfree Organic Standard which has because they look a bit like the or indirectly from bacteria living in been developed by the Vegan Organic canine teeth which cats and soil or water or, in the case of Network (VON). At the moment only dogs have (although obviously ruminants such as sheep and three companies sell certified Stockfree not so long and sharp). cattle, in their stomachs. Organic produce through box schemes: Factory-farmed animals do not Tolhurst Organic Produce near Reading, However, they are blunt and you always have access to these Northop Organics in Wales and Sow and could not give a killer bite with sources and are sometimes given Grow Organics in the Wigan area. If you them or tear raw flesh from a B12 as a supplement. In an can’t get hold of Stockfree Organic carcass. In fact our so-called overcrowded world, food must be produce then you can grow your own, canines are just like extra hygienically prepared and handled using the advice provided by VON. incisors, perfect for slicing and benign natural contamination www.veganorganic.net through fruit and vegetables. is eliminated along the way. The B12 used to fortify or supplement The Soil Association say that their certified You might also point out to your vegan foods is made by specially products may occasionally have a colleague that the human grown bacteria in fermentation connection with blood, fish or bone. So capacity to reason means that vats (somewhat akin to beer you are better off sticking to the Stockfree we no longer have to give in to brewing). As in a more natural Organic Standard or growing your own if our more base drives, even if we environments, the source is bacteria. you want to be sure. did have the killer instinct, which we don’t.

Vitamin Please Is B12 is essential the Stockfree can you One for good health, Organic Standard tell me of my meat- but from what same as the whether eating colleagues source is our vegan Soil Association’s pesticides has said to me that the food supplemented, UK 5 and fertilisers fact that we have canine and is the source certification? used to grow teeth indicates that we natural? fruit and are designed to eat vegetables meat. What’s a good contain animal counter-argument derivatives? to this?

34 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 µ Postbag Contributions to Postbag are welcomed, but accepted on the understanding that they may be edited in the interests of brevity or clarity

STAR LETTER HEALTHY EATING µ I have been vegan for some years The author of this issue’s Star Letter wins a copy of the DVD Truth or Dairy now. But not in a good way! I made the transition from vegetarian to NEWLY VEGAN vegan by taking out all the animal products but I didn’t actually change Eric was a BIG meat-eater, he The psychological benefits: my diet. As a result, over time I found turned vegan for a bet, and this myself eating the same ‘processed’ is how he feels two months on: (1) I feel less tense and high-strung ready-made vegan foods over and in general. For a while I tried to over again. Was this laziness or lack I have to tell you, in all frankness, this figure out why. I couldn’t. So I let it of imagination? You choose. year’s diet has changed my life in ways go (one less thing to worry about, I hadn’t even imagined. And it’s only you see). In any case, I’m feeling Recently I took out a vegan cookbook been 2 months so far! better. from the library and started experimenting. It goes without saying The physiological benefits: (2) Most of my cooking is now from scratch. Thus, the food that I that my diet is now so much more (1) I’ve always had difficulty with consume comes wrapped in far less varied and interesting. However, what regularity. I find discussing this topic voluminous packaging. Far less I did not realise was that for all the not the least embarrassing, because cardboard, plastic, metal goes into time I was eating an unbalanced diet I my new-found experience with the recycling bin in our house, and was missing out on the feeling of ‘joy regular, frequent, and well-formed far less perishable waste goes into for life.’ bowel movements has been extremely our rubbish. In turn, I feel that my liberating. I’ve never ever known this existence is less of a burden on this The new diet is just as fast to prepare sensation in my adult life. planet’s resources now than before I and has so much more taste and adopted a vegan diet. (2) For years, I have battled a persistent texture. Just by making the change to a well-balanced and varied vegan diet skin condition, commonly referred to (3) I’m starting (not completely so, I feel like a new woman. I no longer as rosacea (which afflicts millions of but starting) to empathize with the people including former President Bill animals whose deaths and feel tired. In fact I have boundless Clinton among other notables). I’ve subjugation are an integral part of energy. I never realised I felt ‘down’ tried creams, ointments, and prescription our culture of consumption. This but the change is so noticeable – I feel meds during flare-ups, and nothing may take a little more time. I’m still so upbeat and happy! I had no idea seems to hold this irritating facial menace not quite clear on vegans’ eschewal how dramatic an impact it could have at bay for more than a couple of weeks. of honey. I don’t eat it, but I still on my mental as well as my physical But, oddly enough, after adopting a don’t quite get it. However, my wellbeing. vegan diet for only two months, my attitude is definitely changing. rosacea has virtually vanished. I can’t I’m sure all your readers know exactly believe it. I’m beginning to wonder Other benefits: whether this skin condition is brought what I’m talking about, but if there are any out there not really getting on by meat, dairy, processed foods, or a (1) Our grocery bill is down by 50%, the most they can from their vegan combination of them. Perhaps it doesn’t at the very least. matter, because I don’t miss these diet, I urge them to take the things in the least any more. (2) We’re thinking of growing a small challenge. It can, quite literally, vegetable garden this spring. Never change your life for the better. (3) I’ve lost 12 lbs of fat weight and did that before. kept it off (and can again wear several Aundrea O’Neill pairs of pants long relegated to (3) Did I mention the poop? Newark storage). That’s no small feat, given how little time I have to exercise in Eric Waggoner my busy schedule.

µ The Vegan l Autumn 2006 35 AN INTERVIEW WITH ANIMAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGNER JOAN COURT

Charis Bredin photo ©SPEAK

“I’m so lucky all my dreams have She tells me about her work with come true” Quaker Concern for Animals, about how she convinced a sophisticated ‘Whether it’s the “Yes, I suppose it looks as if I’ve been barrister to dress up as a monkey for pioneering things for a very long a demonstration and how she has human race, the time,” says Joan Court, pouring strong been arrested four times (“though I tea into my mug, “though I get think being arrested is a bit of a planet or the trees, annoyed when people label me simply waste of time,” she confesses). Last as an animal rights pioneer when most year she sailed with Sea Shepherd to you should always of my life has been spent helping Nova Scotia and Newfoundland to humans as well.” Her small house is help stop the seal slaughter. try to make the filled with books, pictures, and “Whether it’s the human race, the mementos of a life full of adventure planet or the trees, you should always world a better and excitement. try to make the world a better place. People are too caught up in place. People are A large Siamese cat sprawls on the consumerist society and climbing the wooden kitchen table where we sit, property ladder, but they’ll eventually too caught up in another cat purrs loudly on the seat get to forty, be married and then beside me and a third prowls along the divorced with two children and a consumerist society top of the worktop. In fact, there mortgage and they’ll look back and seem to be cats everywhere. think, ‘Is that really what it’s all about?’” and climbing the After a traumatic and often abusive childhood, Joan left school at fourteen. Joan’s life is a testimony to her property ladder, but As soon as she could, she headed for principles. She could have achieved India and set up a midwifery clinic in almost anything, but she chose to they’ll eventually Calcutta. She later worked in become a nurse and travel to some of Kentucky, then in Lahore with the UN. the most poverty stricken areas of the get to forty, be She is still active and sharp, defying her world with no other motive than to eighty-seven years. “The only trouble have adventures and “help other married and then with me,” she comments, “is that I’m sentient beings.” “School and getting a bit old: my eyes are no society drill a much too measured divorced with two good, neither are my ears or my legs, idea of success into us: getting good but apart from that I’m fine!” grades, getting the right job, earning children and a lots of money.” Joan’s home reflects “It’s very important to be fighting for this belief: there is nothing mortgage and a good cause,” she smiles, and pretentious or grandiose about it. indeed she regularly makes news There are certificates for adopted they’ll look back and working against cruelty to animals. animals on the walls, animal rights She recently went on a 72-hour leaflets everywhere and an think, ‘Is that really hunger strike against a new animal atmosphere of dedication to a worthy testing centre in Oxford and has been cause. On the kitchen window ledge what it’s all about?’ barred from Heffers bookshop in is an award from the Jains “for a Cambridge for setting off a stink bomb lifetime dedicated to following at a pro-foxhunting book signing. Gandhian principles”.

36 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 This brings me to the subject I’ve She is always promoting direct action been most anticipating: Joan’s time and says, smiling, “Sometimes I get with Mahatma Gandhi in India. I ‘I’d always been bored with vegans. If you get two or can’t help plying her with questions three together, all they talk about is about her experience of him. “He preoccupied with recipes. I’m more concerned with was an absolute knockout!” she action”, though she also assures me, “I says decisively. “I’d always been Gandhi, but he was enjoy fighting the Establishment, but preoccupied with Gandhi, but he not everybody wants that and it doesn’t was more than I could have mean their life isn’t worthwhile.” She dreamed of. He was enormously more than I could loves adventures and is always keen for impressive.” I ask whether she has the next one, but is practical about that any anecdotes about him, anything have dreamed of. too: “I feel like I need a new other people wouldn’t know. She adventure, but it’s hard to know what pauses thoughtfully. “He was He was enormously I’d be useful for any more.” always worried about how to keep his feet clean and whether to use impressive.’ That Joan Court is a revolutionary in Lux soap or not.” She describes every sense of the word and has lived how the Hindu women would an incredible life is beyond doubt. complain that they had to work “I’m so lucky,” she smiles, “I must much harder when Gandhi came to I’m exhausted but exhilarated by my have a guardian angel watching over visit: “He’s quite a nuisance,” they time with Joan. She is so interested me because everything I’ve wished for would say, “Looking after a saint is and enthusiastic about everything has come true.” not easy”. Again, she refers back to that the short interview I was animal suffering. “He was deeply expecting turned into a five-hour visit [For more about Joan’s adventures, concerned about women’s education complete with a vegan curry for see In the Footsteps of Mahatma as well as the abuse of cows in lunch. She is practical, yet a Gandhi, the first part of her India. His main focus seemed to be romantic, and more focussed on the autobiography. The second part is in women and animals.” fight for animals than anyone I know. preparation and eagerly awaited.]

photo ©SPEAK

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 37 events Updated diaries and events information can be viewed at www.vegansociety.com

AUGUST Sunday 10th – Saturday 16th n World Vegetarian Congress th Saturday 26 Aug – Monday (Goa, India) th 4 Sept 37th International Vegetarian Camp for Climate Action Union Conference, Goa, India. Bringing people together to All catering will be vegan. provide information on climate T. 020 7928 7459, change and its causes, take action www.ivu.org/congress/2006. against climate change, share practical solutions and network Saturday 30th 10.30am - 4.30pm with other people campaigning on Teaching Compassion Event and all the aspects of climate change. Autumn Fair (Free Admission) For more details: With talks and films on animal www.climatecamp.org.uk issues and speakers from Animal Aid, the Captive Animal Protection n SEPTEMBER Trust and the Dr Hadwen Humane Saturday 9th Research Trust. Viva! Veggie Roadshow, Bath Also cruelty-free and fair-trade The Guildhall, High Street, Bath. goodies, stalls and a vegan café. 10.30am to 4.30pm. Admission free. The Friends’ Meeting House, Hill A brilliant family day out, there will Street, Coventry, CV1 4AN. be food tastings, cookery For further information visit: demonstrations, talks, free diet www.coventryveggies.makessense.co.uk and health advice, stalls, or contact Julie Roberts: 07811 400215. competitions, vegan fashion and footwear, beauty products, books, n OCTOBER vegan food products, information Saturday 28th and campaign news. If you want Vegan Society AGM 2pm to get involved please contact Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, Angie on 0117 944 1000 London WC1 (nearest tube Holborn) or email [email protected] Vegan Society members only. th Sunday 10 Followed by Donald Watson London Vegan Festival memorial event and presentation A wealth of information, cruelty- of the 2006 vegan awards. free goodies, inspiring talks and delicious vegan food. Kensington This is also the beginning of Town Hall, Hornton Street, London National Vegan Week. World W8. 10am-7pm. Contact CALF Vegan Day is 1st November. Last T. 020 8670 9585 year the theme was Typical Vegan www.londonveganfestival.org.uk. (there’s no such thing!). This year’s theme will be: the environment. http://www.worldveganday.org/

For further information please contact Rosamund Raha, Head of The London Vegan Festival Information Services, at the Vegan Photo Competition 2006 Society, or Dave Palmer, General Manager All u fabulous fans [email protected] Of fo-tografy [email protected] Get clicking & email Your best shot 2 me n NOVEMBER Coz the LVF annual comp Wednesday 1st Is now here World Vegan Day. To find out That’s September the 10th what is going on in your area, talk VEGAN FESTIVAL, dear! to your local contact or for ideas visit: www.lcat.makessense.co.uk Just capture the flavour Of this special day n DECEMBER And a prize and great fame Sunday 3rd 10am – 5pm Will be speeding your way Christmas Without Cruelty Fayre Admission £1, children (under 11) free See the website for details Kensington Town Hall, Hornton And get yourself down Street, London W8 (opposite High With your foto machine Street Kensington tube station) To the best gig in town! Full event details at: http://www.animalaid.org.uk/xmas/fayre Bernie Laprade .htmL www.LondonVeganFestival.org.uk Or phone Animal Aid: 01732 364546

38 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 VEGAN SOCIETY NETWORK CONTACTS

The Vegan Society Network

These people are here to help. Simply get in touch. Send an SAE if posting.

i - for local vegan information and support F - family contact with parenting experience Y - for young vegan support G - group (social and/or active) N - New entry

Thinking of getting active or starting a group? Take a look at the wealth of advice at www.activeg.org then email Sophie [email protected], or phone 0118 946 4858 if you don't have Internet access.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 39 VEGAN SOCIETY NETWORK CONTACTS

40 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 LISTINGS

Patrons VEGANISM may be Freya Dinshah defined as a way of living

Maneka Gandhi which seeks to exclude, as far as possible and practical, Rebecca Hall all forms of exploitation Dr. Michael Klaper of, and cruelty to, animals Moby for food, clothing or any Gordon Newman other purpose. In dietary Cor Nouws terms it refers to the Wendy Turner-Webster practice of dispensing with all animal produce — Benjamin Zephaniah including meat, fish, poultry, eggs, animal Council milks, honey, and their Alex Bourke (Vice Chair) derivatives. Chris Childe Vanessa Clarke Abhorrence of the cruel Sophie Fenwick-Paul practices inherent in an agricultural system based (Network Contacts on the abuse of animals is Co-ordinator) probably the single most Laurence Main common reason for the Ian Nicoll adoption of veganism, but George Rodger (Chair) many people are drawn to it for health, ecological, Subra Sivarajah (Assistant resource, spiritual and Treasurer) other reasons. Patricia Tricker (International Co- If you would like more ordinator) information on veganism a Stephen Walsh (Treasurer) free Information Pack is Jay Ashra (co-opted) available from the Vegan Vanessa Payne (co-opted) Society in exchange for two first class stamps.

Staff THE VEGAN SOCIETY was formed in England in General Manager / November 1944 by a Head of Marketing & IT group of vegetarians who Dave Palmer had recognised the ethical compromises implicit in lacto-vegetarianism (ie Head of Information dairy dependent). Today, Services the Society continues to Rosamund Raha highlight the breaking of the strong maternal bond Information Officers between the cow and her new-born calf within just Johanna Best four days; the dairy cow’s Clare Persey proneness to lameness and mastitis; her subjection to Business Development an intensive cycle of Officer pregnancy and lactation; Colm McBriarty our unnatural and unhealthy taste for cow’s milk; and the de- Sales Assistant oxygenation of river water John Rawden through contamination with cattle slurry. Office Manager / Finance Officer If you are already a vegan Jody Hazell or vegan sympathiser, please support the Society and help increase its Volunteers influence by joining. Michaela Altman Increased membership (proofreader) means more resources to Erica Wilson educate and inform.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 41 CLASSIFIEDS (UK) HOLIDAY DORSET SUSSEX HOLIDAYS ABROAD

ACCOMMODATION KERALA, SOUTH INDIA a veganís paradise. Tours, accommodation including self- catering. Brochure: Tel: 01892 722440, CORNWALL Voice Mail/Fax: 01892 724913. E-mail: [email protected] Website:www.keralaconnect.co.uk

ALPUJARRAS - ANDALUCIA Attractive townhouse. Sunny, roof terrace. Excellent views, birds, walks. Wholefood shops and restaurants serving veggie food in town. Sleeps 2 - 6. £280 pw. Available all year. Tel: 01736 753555. email: HAMPSHIRE WEST CORK- vegetarian self-catering NEW FOREST Veg*n guest house (‘The apartments for singles, couples and ST. IVES - Self-catering accommodation in Barn’) - perfect for walking, cycling etc. families in peaceful wooded surroundings. great location. Vegan café/restaurant in B&B from £24pppn - ensuite, n/s - Organic vegetables, bread & vegan same complex opening soon. Close to evening meals. 023 8029 2531 or wholefoods available. Reasonable rates. beaches, harbour, shops and Tate Gallery. www.veggiebarn.net WALES Green Lodge, Trawnamadree, Ballylickey, Tel: 01736 795255 or e-mail Bantry, Co. Cork, Ireland. Tel: +353 2766 146, 00353 0861955451. SOUTH WEST WALES tranquillity, natural Email: [email protected] or website ISLE OF WIGHT beauty and friendliness. Self-catering http://homepage.eircom.net/~greenlodge cottages only metres from sandy beach CUMBRIA and lovely walks. Heated outdoor FRENCH PYRENEES: Vegan B&B in swimming pool and excellent facilities. beautiful old stone farmhouse run by Eco-friendly owners. Tel 01267 241654 English organic vegetable farmers. Two www.innisfreeholidays.co.uk large en-suite rooms. Optional three course evening meal. Set in quiet wooded POWYS - Machynlleth. B&B overlooking valley, ideal for walking, cycling, bird spectacular mid-Wales scenery. Centre for watching, relaxing. Contact Trevor or Sue, Alternative Technology nearby. Delicious Le Guerrat, 09420, Rimont, France. Tel.: organic veggie / vegan breakfasts. 01654 (0033) 561963703. E-mail: 702562 www.dyfiguest.co.uk [email protected] Website: www.leguerrat.org

ANDALUCIA - remote mountain village 40 mins sea - walking, wildlife - from £100 per week - 2 persons - £180 4 persons. LANCASHIRE Tel 01202 431867 www.orgiva.org/alfornon

DEVON

SCOTLAND

GET STUFFED THIS WINTER!

Spend Christmas with Sue and Trev at Le Guerrat this year, in the YORKSHIRE French Pyrenees.

ARTICLES AND ADVERTISEMENTS WHITBY B&B FALCON GUESTHOUSE. Copious amounts of vegan fayre, Vegan/vegetarian Quiet location, seven organic wines, log fires, holly, TO BE SUBMITTED BY mistletoe and party games…. minutesí walk from centre and harbour. 31ST AUGUST 2006 Lounge and sunny breakfast room. Book early to avoid FOR INCLUSION IN THE WINTER Teamaking facilities. No smoking disappointment: (0033) 5 61 96 37 03, or send an e-mail: 2006 ISSUE OF THE VEGAN WALES throughout. Ample breakfast, with organic fare. £20 p.p.p.n. (for couple). [email protected] Tel 01947 603507

42 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 ATTRACTIVE, intelligent lady (young 44): PUBLICATIONS tactile, affectionate, spiritual, an animal INTERNET SERVICES lover without children. Now based in Exclusively vegetarian & vegan 3 bedroom Scotland (but without ties to anywhere) holiday cottage in the picturesque I’m seeking my soulmate , a veggie/vegan DIVINE FROG web services. A vegan VEGAN VIEWS - informal quarterly for countryside of SW France. Combine the gentleman for a lifelong romance. business. Website design, implementation, Vegan Opinion. Sample copy £1. 4 issues privacy & freedom of a traditional French development, maintenance and hosting. cottage with the luxury of a vegan breakfast £4 inc p&p. Harry Mather, Flat A15, 20 Please contact Ian : Tel : 07981 057697 service provided by neighbouring owners. Dean Park Road, Bournemouth BH1 1JB Close to the village of St Claud (cafes, Email : [email protected] market & open-air pool) & within easy reach ITEMS FOR SALE www.divinefrog.co.uk of low cost airports/TGV station, the non- SUNSHINE AND SHADOW. Autobiography smoking cottage suits couples, families or of Wilfred Crone, well-known groups of friends; intimate enough for two vegan/fruitarian. £7.50 inc P&P. Harry 1 PAIR ‘Freeranger’ Jess boots. As new. but offering generous space for 6 adults. Mather, Flat A15, 20 Dean Park Road, ACCOMMODATION Size 4 1/2 £55 Tel: 01980 630601 Vegan Society Member’s Discount Bournemouth BH1 1JB Jocelyn & Trevor Bridge Le Fayard, 16450 St Claud, France VEGAN VOICE magazine promotes a Tel: 0033 545 89 03 45 nonviolent lifestyle beneficial to the planet ORGANISATIONS E-mail: [email protected] and to all animals. For the latest on Web: www.lefayard.com veganism and animal rights, subscribe now to Vegan Voice, Australia's celebrated and singular quarterly magazine! www.veganic.net

PRACTITIONERS MISCELLANEOUS

VEGAN BUT STILL SICK? Vegan health GREEN/DIY FUNERALS Eco-friendly practitioner available for consultations, inexpensive coffins, memorial tree- personal health retreats, iridology, fasting planting. Please send £1 in unused supervision, emotional healing, etc. stamps with A5 size 35p SAE to Box 328 Contact /http://www.vibrancy.homestead.com/pag HOMEOPATH. Aubrey Burge LBSH. eone.html or telephone (01626) 352765 RSHom. Treating you towards good for free brochure. health. All remedies carried on a vegan base. Clinic in Wiltshire or reasonable ‘Jesus also was a vegetarian’ distance home consultations welcome. To place a personal ad please send your www.donoteatus.org wording (max 35 words) and £6 payment, Tel 01980 630601 for more information. specifying in which section you would like your ad to appear. Please add £2 if you DRIVEWAYS, pathways and patios. 18 would like a box number. year veggie/vegan and paving! Very COSMETICS experienced, works regularly UK, USA and France. Professional, high quality work and very reliable. References. Michael at

FRANCE Brittany (56) Vegan B&B 20E pp Enjoy a warm welcome & good food in our comfortable PERSONAL old farmhouse.Relax in peaceful gardens, walk/cycle in beautiful countryside, explore the many places of interest.Nearby FELLOWSHIP of vegan/vegetarian lake for swimming, sailing; canal Christian believers. Not a dating agency. for canoeing.Dinner available with CONDITIONS OF ACCEPTANCE: vegan wine.75 mins St For details please write to VCR, 55 Long Street, Wigston, Leicestershire, LE18 2AJ Advertisements are accepted subject to their satisfying the condition that the products advertised are entirely Malo. Vegan Soc 10% discount. free from ingredients derived from animals; that neither products nor ingredients have been tested on animals; TEL: 0033 297 93 00 61 and that the content of such ads does not promote, or appear to promote, the use of non-vegan commodities. or Email [email protected] Books, records, tapes, etc. mentioned in advertisements should not contain any material contrary to vegan principles. Advertisements may be accepted from catering establishments that are not run on exclusively vegan PENFRIENDS sought by female snail-mail lines, provided that vegan meals are available and that the wording of such ads reflects this. enthusiast, 27. Into healthy living, books, language, experimental cooking. Seeks EATING OUT M/F vegans, any age, platonic only, to trade recipes and thoughts. DISCOUNT CARD

HUMAN WRITES is a non-profit humanitarian organisation offering support to death row prisoners through letter writing. Please make someone’s life better with your This card entitles the DISCOUNT CARD letters. For details, SAE to: 343a Carlton bearer to discounts at Hill, Carlton, Nottingham, NG4 1JE. Thanks! a range of outlets, THE VEGAN restaurants and hotels. VEGAN mum, 39, home-educates 3 children, VALID FROM also cares for 5 rescued cats. Interests A full list of discounts AUGUST 2006 include homeopathy, flower remedies and is available from crystal healing. Looking for thoughtful UNTIL The Vegan Society. and sincere penpals from anywhere, must NOVEMBER 2006 have a sense of humour. REFERENCE CODE VEGAN MALE SOUGHT BY FEMALE - Passionate about veganism, animal rights, Ref:WFR 006 justice, walking my dogs, cycling, and line dancing. Hates noise and ignorance. 59, though still feel 30. Norwich area, but could relocate.

The Vegan l Autumn 2006 43 44 PRIZE CROSSWORD Kate Sweeney

ACROSS DOWN

6 Avocado or prickly (4) 1 Edible plant roots, stems 7 Stem of a runner, perhaps (9) and leaves (10) 9 Groundnut, monkey nut (6) 2 Consuming liquid (8) 10 Kitchen utensils with thin 3 These may be perforated flexible blades (8) and contain tea (4) 11 Very hungry, ravenous (8) 4 Developed, ripe (6) 5 Look! Radish hides lady’s- 13 Raising _ _ _ _ _ e.g. finger (4) baking powder (5) 7 Loaves baked at the same 15 Gastropod which eats time (5) lettuces (4) 8 Coarse seasoning (3,4) 16 Grain - cracked or whole (5) 12 Usual food items; restricted 17 Rosemary, basil or food intakes (5) angelica (4) 14 Round, stuffed, boiled 18 Bundle (of 16 Across) (5) pasta (10) 20 Wine mixed with sparkling 16 Cakes made from batter, water (8) cooked with an iron 22 Pancake; Spanish utensil (7) Solution to omelette (8) 17 Conservatory, greenhouse (8) The Vegan Prize Crossword 25 Cooks over a fire, grills (6) 19 Dine away from home (3,3) 26 Broth or chowder is eaten 21 Friendly garden bird (5) with this (9) 23 Kiln for drying hops (4) 43 24 _ _ _ _ vera (4) 27 Kitchen basin (4) CONGRATULATIONS Rachel Joseph of London, who wins a Typical Vegans T-shirt and bag. Congratulations to Mark Ryder from London who won the Beanies Prize Hamper. Send in a photocopy (or original) of the solution to this crossword, together with your name and address by the 31st August 2006

Prize this issue: A Funk Bubble box of goodies worth £20.00

Solution in next issue.

people animals environment

Donald Watson House Tel: 0845 45 88244 7 Battle Road Fax: 01424 717064 St. Leonards on Sea [email protected] East Sussex TN37 7AA www.vegansociety.com

THE VEGAN DISCOUNT CARD

44 The Vegan l Autumn 2006 D