The number of vegans in Britain skyrocketed in 2020, according to a recent survey. However, while making the switch by incorporating foods like all natural nut butters into your diet is a great way to start on the path towards veganism, many people are unaware that the choice to be animal friendly can go well beyond diet. From revamping your collection of everyday products to taking a closer look at your home décor, here are just a few ideas worth considering.
The issue with many everyday products
As a vegan, you’re likely aware of the many plant-based alternatives when it comes to diet. However, it’s important to realise that a number of other products that play a role in your daily life might not be vegan at all. Shampoos and body washes are just two examples of products that may contain animal-derived ingredients (like gelatine) or rely on animal testing. However, by revamping your grocery list and seeking out reputable vegan and animal-friendly brands, you can ensure you’re getting a worthy substitute.
Problematic products don't exist only in the bathroom, however: other household products that often aren't vegan include bleach, furniture polish, and laundry detergent. Surprisingly, some laundry detergents contain processed animal fats, or even enzymes from animal organs — such as lipase, which is often used to improve the cleansing effect. This proves just how important it is to not only read the labels of your favourite products, but how doing so can help you to make the animal-friendly changes you're looking for.
Animal-friendly home design?
In addition to simply shopping vegan on a regular basis, many people choose to execute the vegan lifestyle by ensuring that their homes are as eco-friendly as possible — something that is possible as early as the construction process. However, if you aren’t planning on moving or building a new home, you can still eliminate animal products in your home design. For example, faux fur has been found to contain trace amounts of real fur, and gloss paints or general emulsions often contain casein (a milk protein used to help paint adhere to walls). Opting to cut out furs and choosing casein-free paint brands can offer a more eco-friendly alternative, and bring you one step closer to a more vegan home design.
Committing to a vegan diet is a large endeavour on its own, but committing to the lifestyle is an even bigger project. However, it can be achieved over time. Whether it's through refining your grocery lists or fully committing to investing in a completely eco-friendly home, there are several ways that you can extend your definition of being vegan.
Article by Cassidy French