TOP NEWS THIS WEEK

Labour Vows to “Eliminate” Fox Hunting: The UK’s Labour Party has vowed to eliminate fox hunting within its first five years in power if elected. Shadow Environment Secretary Steve Reed stated the party would close loopholes in the existing Hunting Act that allow certain types of hunting to continue legally. Reed insisted there is no majority support for fox hunting “in any part of the country.” The Countryside Alliance urged Labour not to bring forward new legislation, arguing it would be an “attack on rural communities.” However, Reed maintained that the policy aims to address the will of rural voters who want an end to the controversial practice. Read the story on The Telegraph.

Los Angeles County Implements Plant-Based Food Policy: Los Angeles County has enacted a groundbreaking plant-based food policy to tackle environmental, public health, and animal welfare concerns. Initiated by Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Hilda L. Solis, the legislation mandates a comprehensive shift towards plant-based foods in county food service contracts. It encompasses updates to nutritional standards, recommendations for plant-based procurement, and tracking greenhouse gas emissions. Learn more on Vegconomist.

Plant-Based Proteins Align with Food System Transformation Goals: A new report from Alt Protein for Good explores how plant-based alternative proteins can contribute to a more just and sustainable food system transformation in the United States. The report synthesizes viewpoints from various stakeholders, identifying challenges and opportunities for enhancing common-good benefits. It highlights areas where the alt protein industry aligns with transformation goals, such as climate benefits. The report offers solutions for policymakers, investors, advocates, and industry to deepen positive impacts. See the full report on Stray Dog Institute.

SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT

South Korea’s Opposition Party Pledges New Legal Status for Animals

South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party has pledged to revise civil law to define animals as “living creatures” rather than property if elected in April’s legislative elections. Party leader Hong Ihk-pyo stated that a society protecting animal rights is “also good for human rights.” The party has also vowed to ban “factory-like” animal breeding facilities and expand research into alternatives to animal testing. This progressive stance reflects a growing societal shift in South Korea, where dog meat consumption was recently banned. Read the full story.

QUICK BITES

Easy Vegan Flatbread: This no-yeast, 5-ingredient flatbread is incredibly easy to make and so much better than store-bought! Soft, chewy and delicious, it’s perfect for personal pizzas, serving with curries, or enjoying on its own. Get the simple recipe on This Savory Vegan.

Baked Apple Cider Donuts: Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with these baked (not fried!) apple cider donuts. Moist, warmly spiced and coated in crunchy cinnamon sugar, they make a perfect breakfast treat. Find the easy recipe on Lyza’s Vegan Life.

DID YOU KNOW?

Veganism’s roots in India date back to at least 250 B.C.

India has an ancient history of avoiding the consumption of animals and animal products, though the reasons were more closely tied to principles of non-violence (ahimsa) rather than the modern meaning of veganism, which emerged much later. One of the earliest influential advocates was the Mauryan emperor Ashoka, who ruled from 268-232 B.C. After a brutally violent war, he converted to Buddhism and its teachings of non-violence and compassion for all life. Ashoka advocated against animal sacrifice and hunting, and promoted a plant-based diet.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Can everyone afford to be vegan?

While a plant-based diet can be affordable with smart shopping, some argue it may be inaccessible for low-income individuals or those with limited access to fresh produce. How can we make veganism more accessible and inclusive for all? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Stay informed and keep advocating for a more vegan world. See you next week with more updates!

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