In today’s food production world, it’s not uncommon for tens of thousands of animals to be crammed inside massive windowless sheds. This is considered “modern” factory farming. But what really happens behind these closed doors, and how can any human justify the cruelties involved in animal agriculture? In Speciesism: The Movie, Director Mark Devries takes viewers inside this hidden world while also exploring the human psyche to understand why our species chooses not to extend basic rights to all species. Mark took time recently to talk with us about the film (trailer embedded below) and the broader issue of speciesism.
Capable Crustaceans: New Research Shows Lobsters, Crabs Feel Pain
Did you know that the biggest lobsters on record are 3 1/2 to 4 feet long?
Or that crabs are considered to be excellent “team-workers,” acting together to find food and protect each other?
But what’s even
more fascinating about these marine animals and other crustaceans is that, according to new research, not only are they capable of feeling pain, it’s been shown that they actively try to avoid it. So much so, in fact, that in one study, crabs were
willing to leave a preferred shelter in order to escape potential suffering.
Inaugural Veg Dining in the Nation’s Capital
Whether you have the day off for the Presidential Inauguration, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, or are traveling to the nation’s capital to attend the Inauguration, Monday, January 21 will be a great day to enjoy delicious veg food in Washington, DC. Many restaurants will have special hours to accommodate the crowds and some are even offering special menus:
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WHAT: Delicious all vegan cafe offering soul food, raw foods, and a juice bar. WHERE: 2928 |
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel Promotes Plant Strong Diet
In the land of half-smokes and hot dogs, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel is making headlines by encouraging city residents to take charge of their health by eating more plant-based foods.
As a champion of healthy-eating initiatives, Mayor Emanuel has cracked down on junk food in school vending machines as well as worked to improve access to fresh foods in the city’s “food deserts.”
“Diet for a New America” Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Special Edition
Since 1987, John Robbins’ Diet for a New America has been a definitive source on the merits of plant-based eating. This year the classic celebrates its 25th anniversary, and an honorary edition has been released to educate and empower a new generation of people striving for better health, a cleaner environment, and fairness for animals on factory farms.
Vegan Actors Dominate Oscar Nominations
This morning, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced its nominations for the prestigious 85th Academy Awards. And who does Tinseltown consider its top talent?
Vegan Jessica Chastain earned a Best Actress nomination for her role as a relentless CIA agent searching for Osama Bin Laden in Zero Dark Thirty.
Cooking Channel Debuts New Vegan Show: “How to Live to 100”
Just in time to help you to stick to your New Year’s resolution to eat healthier, the Cooking Channel is premiering its brand-new, all-vegan cooking show, “How to Live to 100.”
Starting this Sunday, Jan. 6, at 8 p.m., celebrity chef and certified raw food chef instructor Jason Wrobel will introduce countless viewers nationwide to the nutritional—and flavorful—benefits of choosing fresh, plant-based foods.
Maryland Law Takes Effect: Arsenic Banned from Chicken Feed
Yes, arsenic. It’s a known toxin and carcinogen, yet it’s commonly used as an additive to chicken feed. Why? It’s been fed to chickens since the 1940s to promote growth and kill parasites.
Sound shocking and dangerous? Maryland Delegate Tom Hucker thought so, too. So in 2010, he introduced a bill in the state legislature aiming to prohibit poultry companies from adding this toxic drug to feed given to chickens who are raised for their meat.
5 Cities that Celebrate Meatless Mondays (And How You Can Too)
In the United States, there’s no question that consumers are getting it. Trends show that overall, Americans are eating less meat, and that’s good news for the animals, the environment and our health!
The Meatless Monday campaign has contributed significantly to helping people reduce their meat consumption as well as discover delicious meat-free meals to enjoy all week long.
And it’s not just consumers who are signing up for Meatless Mondays. Across the board, schools, hospitals, workplaces, celebrities—and even entire cities, are joining the movement!
Here’s how five US cities have embraced Meatless Mondays and are encouraging residents to participate: