Madeleine Hull
Vegetarianism is a diet that excludes meat, and for some, it also means excluding eggs and dairy products. It has been a part of various cultures for centuries, with people adopting vegetarianism for ethical, health, political, environmental, cultural, aesthetic, economic, taste-related, or personal reasons. While vegetarianism has gained more visibility in recent years, there are still cultures that have been predominantly vegetarian for a long time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | India, Israel, Jamaica |
| Religion | Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Rastafari, Sikhism |
| Dietary considerations | Vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, pescetarian |
| Motivations | Ethical, health, environmental, cultural, taste |
| Barriers | Social isolation, lack of social support |
| Health benefits | Reduced risk of chronic and inflammatory diseases, lower rates of illness and death from degenerative diseases, increased lifespan |
| Nutritional considerations | Vitamin B12, iron, vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, iodine, zinc |
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What You'll Learn
India's vegetarian population
India has long been associated with vegetarianism, with the country's majority Hindu population considering cows holy and abstaining from meat. However, the notion that India is a largely vegetarian country is a myth. While vegetarianism is prevalent in India, it is not as widespread as often believed, and the country's meat consumption is on the rise.
According to various surveys and estimates, the percentage of vegetarians in India ranges from 20% to 40%. A 2006 Hindu-CNN-IBN State of the Nation Survey found that 31% of Indians are vegetarian, while another 9% consume eggs (ovo-vegetarians). The survey also revealed that vegetarianism was most common among certain communities, such as the Bishnoi, Swaminarayan, Brahmins, and Jains, while being less prevalent among Muslims and residents of coastal states.
The prevalence of vegetarianism in India has been attributed to cultural and religious influences, particularly Hinduism and Jainism, which promote non-violence and respect for all life. Additionally, the concept of ahimsa, or non-violence, is deeply rooted in Indian culture and has contributed to the widespread adoption of vegetarianism.
However, it is important to note that India's vegetarian population may be declining. Recent surveys, such as the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) in 2015-2016, suggest a decrease in vegetarianism compared to previous years. This decline has been attributed to factors such as urbanisation, increasing disposable income, consumerism, and cross-cultural influences.
While India has a significant vegetarian population, the country's meat consumption is also notable. Despite the presence of vegetarian traditions, a substantial number of Indians consume meat, and the proportion of non-vegetarians is increasing. This is particularly true for certain communities, such as the lower castes, Dalits, and tribespeople, who are predominantly meat-eaters. Additionally, the consumption of beef in India is higher than previously estimated, with a significant number of Indians, including Dalits, Muslims, and Christians, consuming it.
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Jewish vegan and vegetarian population in Israel
Vegetarianism and veganism are diets that have been adopted by people across the globe for centuries. Many cultures have traditionally embraced plant-based eating, with some of the most well-known examples being Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.
Israel has the highest percentage of vegans globally, with around 5.2% of the population being vegan and 13% being vegetarian. This number has more than doubled since 2010, when only 2.6% of the population was vegan or vegetarian. The country's food culture has changed significantly in a short period, with a growing culture of veganism and an abundance of plant-based options.
Jewish vegan and vegetarian populations have played a significant role in promoting meat-free and animal-product-free cultures within Israel. The strict food rules in Jewish culture, such as kosher dietary laws, have made it easier for Jews to adopt diets with restrictions, such as veganism. Some Orthodox rabbis have argued that eating meat and animal byproducts is no longer permitted in Jewish sources due to the cruelty inflicted on animals. Additionally, Jewish principles regarding animal welfare, environmental ethics, moral character, and health are often cited as reasons for Jews to adopt vegetarian or vegan diets.
The small size of Israel as a country has also played a role in its vegan revolution. With its small territory, trends and information move quickly, especially through social media. The city of Tel Aviv, for example, has over 400 vegan and vegetarian restaurants, and worldwide brands like Domino's Pizza and Ben & Jerry's offer multiple vegan options in Israel.
Israeli cuisine naturally includes a large number of vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes, including well-known dishes like hummus and falafel. The influence of Jewish culture and the openness to innovation in a young, immigrant country have contributed to Israel's position as a leading vegan nation.
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Taoist and Buddhist vegetarianism
Vegetarianism is a way of life for many people around the world, with some cultures embracing plant-based diets more than others. While true veganism and vegetarianism are relatively modern concepts, there are several ancient cultures and religions that have promoted plant-based eating. Here is an overview of Taoist and Buddhist vegetarianism:
Taoist Vegetarianism:
Taoism, also known as Daoism, is a philosophy and religion that originated in China. While vegetarianism is not a mandatory requirement for Taoists, some scriptures suggest that it is a fundamental aspect of the Taoist path. The "Ultra Supreme Emptiness Emperor the Heavenly Lord's Scripture of Forty-nine Chapters" (Orthodox Taoist Canon 0018) states that being a vegetarian is a bridge of truth, leading to liberation from the cycle of births and deaths. It further describes how meat-eating defiles both the body and mind, comparing those who indulge in it to hungry ghosts and flies scrambling for putrid things.
Buddhist Vegetarianism:
Buddhism, with its roots in ancient India, has a long history of influencing vegetarian practices. While there is a divergence of views within Buddhism, with some schools rejecting a vegetarian requirement, significant portions of Mahayana Buddhist monastics and laypersons practice vegetarianism. This is based on the interpretation of certain sutras, which suggest that Gautama Buddha instructed his followers to refrain from eating the flesh of any sentient being. Additionally, some Buddhists avoid meat due to the first precept of Buddhism: "I undertake the precept to refrain from taking life."
However, it is important to note that the Buddha himself accepted alms of all kinds, including meat, after his enlightenment. Furthermore, in ancient texts like the Vanijja Sutta, the Buddha instructed lay followers to avoid the meat trade, not as a dietary rule, but as one of the five wrong livelihoods. Despite these contradictions, Buddhist vegetarianism has had a significant influence on the diets of various cultures, particularly in Japan, where it contributed to a long period of vegetarian-style meals.
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Romanian Orthodox Church and veganism
Vegetarianism and veganism are diets that have been adopted by people across the globe for various reasons, including cultural, religious, and environmental factors. While there is no uniform definition of vegetarianism across Europe, many cultures have adopted plant-based diets as a way of life.
The Romanian Orthodox Church (ROC), one of the nine patriarchates in the Eastern Orthodox Church, has a unique relationship with veganism and vegetarianism. Followers of the Romanian Orthodox Church observe fasting periods during a significant part of the ecclesiastical calendar year. During these fasting periods, devotees adhere to a diet devoid of animal products, effectively following a vegan lifestyle temporarily. This religious tradition has resulted in a wide availability of vegan foods in stores and restaurants across Romania.
However, some sources suggest that Romanians may not widely view veganism or vegetarianism as a permanent lifestyle choice. Instead, they may perceive these diets as temporary adjustments during religious fasting periods. Nevertheless, the Romanian Orthodox Church does not mandate a specific diet, and individuals are allowed to make their own dietary choices.
Veganism and vegetarianism have been subjects of discussion within the Romanian Orthodox Church community. Some individuals within the church community have expressed interest in adopting vegan or vegetarian diets, especially those with environmental concerns or those influenced by certain music and cultural scenes. While some priests have advised making actual lifestyle changes instead of solely relying on vegan alternatives, others have acknowledged the consistency of veganism with the church's teachings.
The process of creating icons, an important aspect of the Romanian Orthodox Church, often involves the use of animal products, which can create challenges for those wishing to adopt a strictly vegan lifestyle. Overall, while the Romanian Orthodox Church does not require veganism or vegetarianism, it allows individuals the freedom to choose their diet while respecting the dietary choices of others.
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Rastafari and vegetarianism
Rastafari is a religion, a movement for justice, and a holistic way of living. Followers oppose oppression and authoritarianism, and seek peace and community in an anti-capitalist world. The Rastafari religion and political movement was born in Jamaica in the 1930s. It promoted an African-centric way of looking at the Bible. The Rastafari founder, Leonard Howell, was fascinated with Hindu practices and was instrumental in promoting a plant-based diet in the Rastafari community of Pinnacle.
The Rastafari movement’s strictly plant-based diet goes far beyond veganism. Rastas consider non-manufactured, raw, plant-based, and organic food the most suitable fuel for the human body. Therefore, it is named “Ital” as it is “vital” for a person’s physical, mental, and spiritual self. The expression of Ital eating varies widely from Rasta to Rasta, and there are few universal rules of Ital living. The primary goal of adhering to an Ital diet is to increase liveliness. The life energy that Rastafari generally believe lives within all human beings, as conferred from the Almighty, is referred to as Livity.
Rastas commonly say, “Ital is vital,” pointing to how the diet got its name. The word Ital is derived from the English word "vital", with the initial "v" removed. This emphasis on the letter "I" is common in the Rastafari vocabulary to signify the unity of the speaker with God and all of nature. The Ital diet does not rely on animal products, processed foods, or food items that are mass-produced and sold within—and for the benefit of—the capitalist system. Its focus is on natural, healthy, plant-based foods that are homegrown (wherever possible) and home-cooked.
Some Rastafari grow their own coffee, sugar, and cocoa. The strictest interpretations also avoid the consumption of rock salt (sea salt can be substituted), and food that has been preserved by canning or drying, and even prohibit the use of metal cooking utensils. In this case, only clay and wood cooking pots, crockery, and cutlery are used. Some Rastas take their commitment to natural and non-manufactured products as far as avoiding potential contaminants throughout the cooking process, eschewing materials such as plastic and aluminum.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several cultures with a traditionally vegetarian diet, including:
- The Rastafari movement, which developed in Jamaica in the 1930s. Most Rastafari are vegetarian and eat "Ital" foods, which are natural, organic, unprocessed, and free of additives, chemicals, and meat.
- India, where a 2006 survey found that 31% of Indians are vegetarian, while another 9% also consume eggs (ovo-vegetarian).
- Israel, which has the highest percentage of vegans globally, with around 5.2% of the population identifying as vegan and 13% as vegetarian.
- The Mediterranean, which includes Italian, Greek, Spanish, Israeli, and Palestinian cuisines.
There are many reasons why someone might adopt a vegetarian diet. Some common motivations include:
- Ethical concerns about animal welfare.
- Health benefits, such as reduced risk of chronic diseases.
- Environmental impact, as plant-based diets generally have a lower environmental impact than animal-based diets.
- Cultural or religious beliefs, such as in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.
Some traditional vegetarian dishes from these cultures include:
- Callaloo, a popular Caribbean vegetable cooked with onion, garlic, tomatoes, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper.
- Hummus and falafel, which are common vegetarian dishes in Israel.
- Indian dishes such as dal, sabji, and paneer, which are typically vegetarian-friendly.
Yes, there are several variations and restrictions that can be incorporated into a vegetarian diet:
- Ovo-vegetarian: includes eggs.
- Lacto-vegetarian: includes dairy products.
- Vegan: excludes all animal products, including eggs and dairy.
- Flexitarian: mainly plant-based but includes small portions of meat and seafood.
