Veganism is on the rise! A vegan diet excludes all animal products, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs, as well as products that contain animal-derived ingredients like gelatin and honey. Instead, a vegan diet is based on plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
Some people choose to be vegan because they believe that it is wrong to use animals for food, clothing, or other purposes, while others believe that a plant-based diet is better for the environment.
A well-planned vegan diet can provide all the necessary nutrients that the body needs. However, it’s important to ensure that the diet includes a variety of plant-based foods to ensure that all essential nutrients are being obtained, such as protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Online grocery shopping for a vegan diet can be a bit different than shopping for a non-vegan diet, as it requires avoiding animal products and choosing plant-based alternatives. Here are some tips to follow when you are vegan shopping at your closest grocery store:
Make a list
Before going to the grocery store, remember to prepare a detailed list of vegan goods to avoid confusion at the store. Choose your favorite Vegan brands and research the quality they offer.
Shop the perimeter
The perimeter of the store usually contains fresh produce, grains, and legumes that are staples of a vegan diet. The center aisles typically contain processed foods and snacks that may not be vegan-friendly.
Check labels
Many packaged foods may contain animal-derived ingredients, such as dairy, eggs, or gelatin. Make sure to check the labels to ensure the products are vegan.
Look for plant-based alternatives
Many traditional animal-based products now have plant-based alternatives, such as veggie burgers, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese. These can be a great way to transition to a vegan diet or add variety to your meals.
Buy in bulk
Buying grains, legumes, and nuts in bulk can be a cost-effective way to stock up on vegan staples.
Don’t forget about snacks
There are plenty of vegan snacks available, such as fresh fruit, veggies and hummus, popcorn, or nuts. It’s a good idea to keep some healthy snacks on hand for when you’re on the go.
Bring your own bags
To reduce waste and environmental impact, bring your own reusable bags or use bulk online grocery delivery.
A vegan diet can help to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. This is because plant-based foods are generally lower in saturated fat, and higher in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals compared to meat alternatives.
Going vegan can also have environmental benefits. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution, and switching to a plant-based diet can help to reduce the impact on the environment. Vegan food can also be very diverse and delicious. With the rise in popularity of veganism, there are now many plant-based alternatives to traditional animal-based products, including burgers, cheeses, and even ice cream, that can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike.
