When did the term vegetarian first appear in writing?
The first written use of the term vegetarian appeared in 1839. This earliest known instance appeared in a journal entry by Fanny Kemble, though the original manuscript has never been located.
Common questions about Vegetarianism
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who founded the Vegetarian Society and when was it established?
The Vegetarian Society was founded in Manchester on the 1st of August 1847. This organization crystallized the modern concept of vegetarianism and helped the word gain general usage after being coined in the mid-19th century.
Which religious traditions advocate for meat abstinence and why?
Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity contain sects that advocate for meat abstinence based on principles like ahimsa and compassion. Hindu followers often avoid beef because the cow is a holy animal, while Mahayana Buddhism encourages vegetarianism to develop compassion.
What are the primary health risks associated with a vegetarian diet?
Vegetarian diets may lack sufficient vitamin B12, which is naturally found only in animal products. Strict vegans risk hyperhomocysteinemia, a condition that increases the risk of anemia, neurological deficits, and cardiovascular disease.
How does the livestock industry contribute to environmental degradation?
Animal agriculture is responsible for 18 percent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions. This industry contributes to air and water pollution, land degradation, and loss of biodiversity worldwide.
When did the first city implement a weekly meatless day for environmental reasons?
Ghent, Belgium implemented a weekly meatless day in 2009, making it the first city in the world to go vegetarian at least once a week for environmental reasons.