Independence From Meat Day is observed all across the world on July 4. As you might have noticed, more and more people across the world are choosing vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. This is because both lifestyles promise increased health benefits by limiting meat from our diets. There are a few moral and environmental implications of these lifestyles too. Even if you do not want to give up eating meat, you could observe Independence From Meat Day as an opportunity to enjoy a different kind of diet. Give your palate a do-over and find out what life is like for vegans and vegetarians.
History of Independence From Meat Day
The Vegetarian Awareness Network founded Independence From Meat Dayn Knoxville, Tennessee. The reason why Independence From Meat Day is celebrated on July 4 is that it is also one of the most popular days in the world for grilling meat outside. Chicken, lamb, pork, beef: all kinds of meats are grilled and barbecued to celebrate American Independence Day. However, staunch vegans and vegetarians believe that eating meat does more harm than good and that it is terrible for our health and the environment. While science does not agree with this line of thought, it is true that eating fried and grilled meat regularly can be bad for health.The fact that consumption and harvesting of meat are bad for the environment is a well-known fact. Think about the sheer amount of water used in the production of commercial meat and animal products. Added to that is the amount of land needed to house all these animals. Scientists have also successfully proven that cow flatulence accounts for far more greenhouse gas emissions than every car in the world combined!Moreover, certain preparations of meat can be bad for our health. The char that forms on meat when it’s grilled has a significantly higher rate of carcinogens in it than meat prepared in any other way. Similarly, when we fry meat, the large amount of fat consumption can be especially bad for our hearts, negatively affecting our cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Independence From Meat Day timeline
This non-profit organization for animal rights is founded.
The first company to make plant-based meat.
It advocates for the vegan lifestyle.
It advocates for the vegetarian lifestyle.
Independence From Meat Day FAQs
Is it healthier to be a vegetarian?
Vegetarians appear to have lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and lower rates of hypertension and type 2 diabetes than meat-eaters.
What are the negative effects of vegetarianism?
Vegetarian diets and more stringent vegan plans can lead to stroke risk, harm to brain health, hair loss, and depression.
Is vegetarianism better than veganism?
Vegetarians only avoid meat, while vegans avoid all animal products, including dairy and eggs. Vegans may be more susceptible to nutritional deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, calcium, and protein.
How to Observe Independence From Meat Day
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Go vegetarian
There is no better way to observe Independence From Meat Day than by going vegetarian. Quit meat for a day and make sure to only eat plant-based products. Who knows, it might even convince you to make a permanent switch!
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Grill vegetables
Everyone you know is grilling meat today. Just because you choose to be vegetarian for the day doesn’t mean you can’t have grilled food. Celebrate Independence From Meat Day by grilling your favorite vegetables.
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Eat vegan
Take Independence From Meat Day a step further by eating vegan food only. This means no meat and no dairy! Try nut-based milk, greens, and fruits. It sure would be an interesting experience.
5 Facts About Vegetarianism
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It improves metabolism
It can improve metabolism function by 16%.
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It can feed more people
20,000 pounds of potatoes can grow on one acre of land.
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India has the most vegetarians
70% of all vegetarians in the world are from India.
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It has ample sources of protein
Greens and pulses are good sources of protein.
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It can prevent cancer
Especially colon and prostate cancer.
Why Independence From Meat Day is Important
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It’s pocket friendly
You can save up to $600 a year by eating vegetarian food and completely cutting meat from your diet. If you have been looking to cut expenditure, Independence From Meat Day shows you how to go about it.
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It’s good for the environment
Eating meat contributes to water and land shortage, and significant increases in greenhouse gases. A great way to do your bit for the environment is by pledging to go off meat on Independence From Meat Day.
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It’s good for you
Removing meat and animal-based products could do wonders for your health. Consult your doctor on Independence From Meat Day to find out what alternatives for meat would suit you best.
Independence From Meat Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 4 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | July 4 | Thursday |
| 2025 | July 4 | Friday |
| 2026 | July 4 | Saturday |
| 2027 | July 4 | Sunday |
