Vegetarian Living NZ – Spring 2025 Issue Out Now
EDITORIAL
I’ve just returned to New Zealand from a trip to Europe, visiting Bulgaria, Turkey, and stopping in Dubai on the way. It was wonderful to reconnect with family in Bulgaria, where I was born, and to soak up the vibrant culture of each destination. One of the highlights was an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia – truly a bucket-list moment.
Travelling was also a reminder of how dominant the meat culture still is in many parts of the world. In busy markets, restaurants, and even home kitchens, meat remains the unquestioned centrepiece of meals. While plant-based options are becoming more widespread, it’s clear that much more work lies ahead to bring these choices into the mainstream.
I believe this awareness will become more deeply ingrained with each new generation. That’s why I’m especially inspired by the creativity and passion we see in young people through initiatives like our annual student competition, Think Kind. This year’s entries have now closed, and we’re excited to present the finalists for public voting on 1st October – World Vegetarian Day and the start of World Vegetarian Month. The winner will be announced a month later, on World Vegan Day, 1st November – so make sure you cast your vote and check our website for the results.
COVER CREDIT: Image of Ella (@the.crueltyfree.chronicals) taken at the Butterfly Effect Competition by All Shots Media/Jack Bouvier
In this spring issue, we start with Decoding Food Labels: A Guide for Vegetarians and Vegans – Part 2 (pages 2 & 3), the second instalment in our two-part series. Part Two focuses on the new allergen labelling rules, common marketing claims, trademarks, and foods that may contain hidden animal products. It’s an essential tool for navigating food labels while we wait for the government to make a decision on our labelling petition, which calls for standardised guidelines on vegetarian and vegan product labelling.
On pages 6 & 7, Live Well and Stay Well – How Lifestyle Habits Can Transform Your Health by Doctors For Nutrition, explores the power of lifestyle medicine in preventing, treating, and even reversing chronic disease. Then, on pages 8 & 9, Fuelled by Plants, Powered by Purpose shares the journey of a plant-based fitness coach who rebuilt her health after surgery, combining recovery, fitness, and a mission for guiding others to be their best selves.
Read further on pages 16 & 17 with Can Better Food Make Better Kids?, where we explore compelling research linking nutrition to brain health, behaviour, and development. And don’t miss page 18, where Feeding the Future dives into how students are reshaping campus food culture, challenging the status quo and pushing for more sustainable food options.
This issue’s articles highlight how change happens – one conversation, one choice, one meal at a time. Wherever you are on your journey – whether you’re just beginning or have been plant-based for years – I hope this issue leaves you inspired to keep making choices that nourish both you and the world around you.
- INA BABIC
editor@vegetarian.org.nz
Grab your copy here or become a member of NZVS and receive the magazine FREE, plus exclusive perks like discounts on Vegetarian Approved and Vegan Certified products.
