This is the online version of the Vegan Slate newsletter, w/e 23rd June. You can join us here and please share this with your friends ...
Hey Fellow Earthling,
How are you doing? Hope all is well with you. Thanks for checking out our offering this week 🙂
I’ve had a bit of a rough week having come down with some horrendous flu-like bug. I think it might even have been Covid, which ties in quite neatly with today’s top story below!
Anyway … nearly back to 100% now and the sun is shining so let’s crack on … enjoy!
As always, we ask you to share and comment if you like this week’s newsletter. We are nothing without you and your engagement is hugely appreciated!
Please do ping us over your news – We read every email!
… and without further ado.
Thank you for being with us!
– Rohan 🙂
This Week’s Top Story
The coming bird-flu pandemic … have we learned nothing from Covid?
The threat of bird flu evolving into a human pandemic is becoming ever more real by the day and experts are sounding the alarm.
Former CDC director Robert Redfield recently stated that bird flu might spark the next global health crisis. With the first human death reported in Mexico and the virus found in US cattle, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
As someone deeply connected to the realities of our food choices, I can’t help but reflect on how disengaged many are from the impacts of these choices. Our consumption habits have far-reaching consequences, all too often overlooked in daily life.
Bird flu, scientifically known as H5N1, primarily affects birds but can infect humans who have close contact with infected birds or surfaces. The virus’s potential to mutate and spread among humans is what has health officials increasingly worried.
So what are the specific concerns? …
The World Health Organization has flagged the ongoing escalation of the threat, and we should heed these warnings seriously.
Think of bird flu as a ticking time bomb. The virus spreads rapidly among bird populations, and outbreaks have led to the culling of millions of birds worldwide. This not only disrupts food supply chains but also poses a direct threat to human health.
Our reliance on animal-based food products exacerbates the risk, making it crucial to reconsider our dietary choices. Especially when the mortality rate of bird flue in humans can be 50% plus.
The rate for Covid was around 0.6% so if the next pandemic is borne from bird flu we’re looking at a major culling of the human race.
Redfield is of the opinion that it’s not a case of if, but when …
Imagine a scenario where bird flu mutates into a form easily transmissible between humans. The healthcare system, its limits already laid bare by COVID-19, could be overwhelmed. Vaccines and antiviral drugs are limited in their effectiveness due to the virus’s ability to change rapidly.
So how can we mitigate this very real risk?
Well, meat-eaters don’t want to hear it but prevention through dietary changes is well known as a practical solution. It really isn’t your own personal choice … unless you couldn’t care less about your fellow human.
Adopting a plant-based diet can seriously reduce the threat. Eliminating animal-based foods reduces the likelihood of zoonotic diseases spilling over into human populations. It’s not just about personal health; it’s a step towards safeguarding global health.
A poignant quote from the CDC underscores the urgency: “The greatest pandemic risk now is from H5N1 avian influenza.” This isn’t fear-mongering; it’s a call to action. We need to shift our perspective on food and its broader implications.
Embracing veganism isn’t merely a lifestyle choice; it’s a proactive measure against future pandemics. By reducing demand for poultry and other animal products, we can decrease the risk of zoonotic diseases. This simple yet profound change can have a significant impact on global health.
So as I wrap this up, I want to reiterate that the potential for bird flu to become the next pandemic is a stark reminder of how interconnected our choices are with the planet’s health. Staying informed and making conscious food choices can help us navigate these challenges.
Let’s not wait for another crisis to spur action. If we learned anything from Covid it is that the time to act is now, for our health and the health of future generations.
Will our continued selfish arrogance lead to our downfall?
As always I’d love to know what you think? Let me know …
Thank you for reading 🙂
Have a great week from all at Vegan Slate …
– Rohan McAvee
Recommend us to your friends …
Quick Links:
- Deadly Heatwaves are 35 times more likely in Mexico and the US due to global warming.
- Plant Based Innovation: A space for Swiss start-ups to grow and flourish with Sproudz.
- The Emotional Lives of Animals – A seminal exploration of animal emotion & sentience.
( paid link ) - Supersize Me! Oatly launches extra large Barista oat milk cartons amid growing demand.
- Free Course – Vegan nutrition essentials.
- 10% Off Code for Vedge Nutrition Store-wide (use: VEGANSLATE)
( paid link )
(To help with running costs, Vegan Slate is a member of the Amazon Associates Program and as an Amazon Associate, earns from qualifying purchases.There’s no extra cost to you if you use a paid link)
Around The Vegan Web This Week Ending 23rd June 24
Roquette Champions ‘Plant Positivity’ at IFT 2024
Roquette is set to showcase its innovative plant-based protein solutions at IFT FIRST 2024 in Chicago, promoting their ‘Plant Positivity’ theme. Highlights include a sugar-free, fiber-rich Paloma mocktail and a protein-fortified coconut milk beverage featuring their new NUTRALYS Fava S900M. Anke Golde, Head of Customer Technical Services, emphasized, “Plant-based ingredients are key to fostering positive nutrition.” By spotlighting these versatile, high-quality ingredients, Roquette aims to inspire more plant-based food innovations, highlighting the growing shift towards veganism and sustainable living. IFT is happening from July 14-17 at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago.
New Study Reveals Popular Excuses for Eating Meat
A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals the common justifications people use to keep eating meat despite recognizing its environmental impact. Researchers found that participants often ridicule veganism, calling it “extreme,” and deflect by criticizing avocados or processed vegan foods. “People quickly derail the topic,” said co-author Kia Ditlevsen, noting how excuses like blaming other environmental issues are used to avoid changing meat-eating habits. Embracing plant-based diets can mitigate climate impact, making the lifestyle a practical solution for addressing the troubling problems we’re storing up in the environmental pipeline.
Ahimsa Companies Expands Plant-Based Portfolio
Ahimsa Companies, a US-based investor group focused on plant-based businesses, is actively pursuing more acquisitions following their purchase of Wicked Kitchen. CEO Matt Tullman revealed they are in talks with several brands, aiming to finalize deals with a few by year’s end. “There’s a lot of opportunity. These are great companies, they have great products,” he stated. Ahimsa’s commitment to supporting plant-based innovation aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable food systems, highlighting the potential of veganism to drive positive change. By fostering plant-based living, Ahimsa aims to support a more sustainable future.
Royals Stepping Up in Vegan Footwear Fashion
The British and Spanish royals are stepping up their fashion game with a love for vegan trainers. Brands like Veja, endorsed by Princess Catherine, Meghan Markle, and Princess Eugenie, lead the pack with sustainable materials. Queen Letizia of Spain sports eco-friendly Royal Green – Project 080 sneakers. “These royals are setting an example by treading lighter on the planet,” notes Becky Donaldson, the author of the HELLO! article. By embracing vegan footwear, the royals highlight a stylish yet sustainable option that begins to align with the principles of plant-based living. Now if they could just stop breeding racehorses too, we’d be getting somewhere!
Microalgae Market Soars Towards $1.3 Billion by 2033
The health and medical microalgae market is set to skyrocket to $1.3 billion by 2033, driven by rising demand for plant-based and vegan products. Growing health awareness and the need for sustainable, nutrient-rich ingredients are key factors fueling this growth. “Microalgae offer a rich source of nutrition and minerals,” the report notes. The expanding pharmaceuticals and nutraceutical sectors are also boosting the market. Microalgae’s role in plant-based living underscores its potential to promote healthier and more planet-friendly dietary choices.
THIS Secures £20M to Expand Plant-Based Meat Range
UK-based startup THIS has landed £20M in a Series C funding round, spearheaded by Planet First Partners. This investment will fuel new product launches and enhance profitability. “Our partnership will be key as we continue to lead a revolution through our plant-based food to protect animals and the environment,” said CEO Mark Cuddigan. The funding underscores the rising demand for sustainable, health-conscious food options. With this boost, THIS is set to further innovate in the plant-based sector, as we see more and more consumers embracing the obvious global shift towards plant-based and veganism for a healthier planet and happier animals.
You can help support Vegan Slate by engaging with our content. Please check out the post below and leave us a comment or share on your favourite socials. It will help us more than you think!
Thank you 🙂
Blog Post: Previously on Vegan Slate …
Vegan vs Vegetarian vs Plant Based – The Differences Fully Explained
Let’s get straight to the answer here … no fluff 🙂 Vegans and vegetarians make their lifestyle choice based on ethical concerns for the welfare and the rights of animals. Plant-based is just a diet. There’s no morality involved apart from maybe wanting to do the right thing for the environment. Everyone talks about the ‘vegan diet’ but you …
Thanks so much for reading Vegan Slate and have a non-violent day 🙂
– Rohan
Vegan Slate