As Veganuary gets off to another great year, we wanted to share our tips and tricks from all of us at Animal Justice Project. Changing your lifestyle to align with vegan ethics can seem like a daunting task, but many of us have taken those steps already and can hopefully offer some useful advice.

Whether it is diet-related, clothing, cruelty-free household or toiletry products, there are many changes that you will make. Understandably, diet is a huge part of anyone’s life so this is usually a key focus, especially during Veganuary. There’s lots of great information out there, which can make these changes much easier, including shopping guides, local groups, YouTube channels, etc.

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“My first Veganuary tip is to head to your local supermarket and spend a good hour or so familiarising yourself with vegan food. So much food on shelves is ‘accidentally vegan’ and if you read labels, you’ll realise there’s much more you can eat than you initially thought! Secondly, check out Facebook to find your local animal rights group. There is bound to be an active group in your area so get in touch! Veganism is much more than a diet and getting active for animals is the best motivation, in my mind, that there is. Finally, if you make a mistake, don’t fret. Do the best you can. I’m proud of you for making that all-important, and literally life-saving, change.” – Claire, Founder

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“My biggest tip is that this is not an overnight change to become the perfect vegan. You may make a mistake but don’t let that dishearten you. As long as you are concentrating on creating a better world for animals and ending the use of animal ‘products’, you will get there. Really look into the truth behind animal agriculture, the fur and leather industries, animal experimentation and others, to solidify why you want to become vegan. It may feel difficult for a few weeks with lots of changes, but I can assure you it’s worth it and the animals will be forever grateful.” – Ayrton, Senior Campaigner

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“The best advice I can give to any new vegan is to join your local vegan Facebook group! Your local community group can provide information on vegan eateries in your area, supermarket finds, activism and more. They will also be on hand to answer any questions you may have about vegan products and ingredients, and where you can find them.” – Aimee, Campaigner

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“Being vegan isn’t about sacrifice, it’s about celebrating all life! For the foodies out there, it’s never been easier to ‘veganise’ your favourite meals – simply replace the animal ‘products’ in the recipe with cruelty-free versions. Easy-peasy. Nowadays, every major supermarket stocks a large variety of vegan-friendly items, from mince to ice cream! And the best part? No animals will have been harmed in the process. Give it a go, it’s easier than you think!” – Aura, Designer

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“My tip would be to read up on the answers to the awkward questions that you are likely to get asked as a new vegan. Such as ‘where do you get your protein?’, ‘is honey vegan?’ and ‘but cows need to be milked, don’t they?’. The Vegan Society have a wealth of information on their website that will enable you to educate others, and yourself!” – Krysia, Fundraising and Supporter Care Coordinator

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“For me, becoming vegan is a great way to vastly reduce the amount of unnecessary violence we pay for – so my best tip for Veganuary is to keep this ethical perspective in mind as you begin to change your consumer habits. Centring non-human animals in your decisions – as well as considering the wider ramifications of your consumption, such as the impact on other humans and on the planet – is a great way to practise anti-oppression in your day-to-day life.” – Peter, Social Media Coordinator

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We hope that this can give you some inspiration and calm any nerves for making these changes in your life to help create a better future for all.

As always,

For the animals.

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