December 2006

Use your nut, go veggie for 2007
And turn over a new ‘leaf’!

Top tips for a Veggie New Year

As the New Year rings in many people will be making resolutions. From giving up cigarettes to doing more for charity, it is a great time of year to take stock and think about what we consume and why.

If you have never given vegetarianism a try, why not give it a go in 2007? It is a lot easier (and more delicious) than you think and plus, the benefits outweigh anything a bacon sandwich or beef-burger can offer!

So, whether it’s a decision based on your love of animals, a concern for the environment or a health boost – the Vegetarian Society’s Top Tips will guide you. For information on going veggie please visit www.vegsoc.org/lifestyle or call us in the New Year when we re-open on 2 January: 0161 925 2000.

Top Tips

Evolution or revolution – it’s up to you how fast you become veggie. Whether it's a gradual or overnight change remember to stick to a pace that suits you.

Love the limelight – be prepared to be the centre of attention. Everyone will usually want to know what you eat, why, how you cook it and sometimes if you are from Mars.

Read all about it – find out about nutrition - it’s important to everyone not just veggies. For the full picture visit www.vegsoc.org and get informed.

Get fruity - have a glass of orange juice with your meal to help with iron absorption.

Fishy business – there’s a weird idea going around that veggies eat fish. They don’t! Whichever way you look at it veggies don’t eat animals and fish are animals.

Dust off your apron – adapt favourite old dishes and use meat substitutes instead, visit the library and look at veggie cookbooks or visit www.vegsoc.org for fab tasty recipes.

Label lover – look out for products which contain gelatine or other hidden ingredients. Better still look out for products approved by the Vegetarian Society, this means they’ve already checked.

Get shopping –look around your usual supermarket you’ll be surprised how much is veggie. Visit your local health food store. Remember to buy vegetarian cheese and free-range eggs.

Collette Walsh from the Vegetarian Society commented: “Go veggie is a pretty smart decision, especially with vegetarians officially having higher IQs than meat eaters! On a serious note, learning about the benefits of vegetarianism could really open your eyes and if you do want support and advice, we are here to help.”

Notes for editors

• For information, media enquiries and images contact: Collette Walsh in The Vegetarian Society Press Office on 0161 925 2012

• Email: collette@vegsoc.org

• Out of hours: 07973 108 165/7

• The Vegetarian Society defines a vegetarian as a person who eats no meat, poultry, game, fish, shellfish or crustacea. Vegetarians also avoid the by-products of slaughter such as gelatine or animal rennet in cheese. The Society only approves products containing eggs when they are free-range.