December 2008

Christmas is coming and the geese are getting fat.

Have a compassionate meat-free festive feast this year.

Every year around ten million turkeys are killed over the Xmas period. This week the BBC is broadcasting a Kill It, Cook It, Eat It Christmas Special which examines our attitude to festive food and the mass slaughter of these animals. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Millions of people in the UK choose to enjoy a compassionate meat-free Christmas.

Liz O’Neil, Head of Communications at the Vegetarian Society commented, “Christmas is a time for giving, so give the turkeys a break this year. A turkey’s natural lifespan is around ten years, but at 9 to 21 weeks old they are shackled, hung upside down by their feet, stunned, bled, de-feathered and gutted. The majority of birds are killed in large, semi-automated slaughterhouses. They don’t have to go through this just to make your day special. Make a compassionate choice and opt for a delicious alternative for your main course. If you’re stuck for ideas get our free set of festive recipe cards by calling 0161 925 2000 or visit our website www.vegsoc.org. We can’t save you from the sprouts, but we can help make your festivities flavoursome and cruelty free.”

The Vegetarian Society has created two brand new menus for this year’s Christmas festivities called Novice and Nouvelle. Each has a starter, main and dessert. They each use similar ingredients such as leeks, chestnuts, oranges, raspberries, white marzipan and are packed with gorgeous flavours.

NOTES TO EDITORS

· For more information and interviews please contact: Su or Liz on 0161 925 2000, email su@vegsoc.org or liz@vegsoc.org

· Tips and hints on a meat-free Xmas are available. Both menus are dairy and egg free.

· Outside office hours the Vegetarian Society Press Office can be contacted on 07973 108 165/7. Alternatively visit the website for information at www.vegsoc.org/press