All vegans get asked some weird questions, some questions come straight out of left field
Every now and again I'll be asked a question that leaves me speechless. Sometimes it's because the answer seems obvious, other times it's a case of who would do that anyway. Then there are the questions that make you look really closely at the person that asked the question when you realise that they've just revealed something about themselves that you wish you didn't know.
Most often when I'm asked about veganism, it'll be about the temptation to eat meat, I've been asked if, when in a restaurant, do I choose a meat option. I always tell them no, I am vegan, not someone who is plant-based or flexitarian. But, when you get asked, "as a vegan, do you eat tomatoes" and they are genuinely interested, you have to take a breath and answer nicely. The questions below are like that. Take a breath and answer nicely, honestly and without judgement.
Can vegans eat avocados?
Yes, vegans can eat avocados. Avocados are fruit, a plant-based food, and they don't involve the use of animals in their production. Veganism avoids animal exploitation, animal products and by-products, avocados are a fruit and, therefore, fall into the category of plant foods.
Do plants feel pain?
Plants do not feel pain, at least not in the way animals do. Unlike animals, plants lack a central nervous system, and thus, the ability to experience pain. While plants can respond to stimuli, their responses are not indicative of pain but innate self-preservation. When plants are injured, they may exhibit reactions that resemble a response to pain, but these are often chemical or pressure-related responses.
For instance, plants have natural water pressure within their cells. When a leaf or stem is broken, the pressure is released, causing the plant to fold or move. It might appear as though the plant is in pain, but in reality, it's an observable consequence. The plant itself is not hurt; the adjustment in shape is a result of the decreased pressure within its cells.
If animals eat other animals, why shouldn't we?
Veganism embodies a moral and ethical stance that seeks to minimise harm to animals, promote sustainability, and reduce environmental impact. While certain animals in nature may consume others for survival, humans possess the ability to make choices guided by ethics, compassion, and the understanding that we can thrive on a plant-based diet. Also, the manner in which humans acquire meat from animals is a point of concern, as it involves unnatural and harmful practices.
Farming practices often entail manipulating animals to maximise muscle production. This includes forcing animals to breed, confining them, and feeding them an unnatural diet before slaughtering them - often prioritising profit over the welfare of the animals. This process stands in complete contrast to the natural behaviours of wild animals. Essentially, what humans do in the industrial farming system is fundamentally different from the behaviours observed in the wild, underscoring ethical concerns surrounding the treatment of animals in food production.
Is water vegan?
Water is a natural resource on our planet and doesn't involve the use of animals in its production. As such, water is deemed compatible with vegan principles. Veganism is centred on the ethos of minimising exploitation, encompassing both animals and the environment.
Can vegans breastfeed their babies?
Yes, vegans can breastfeed their babies. Breastfeeding is natural and is the healthiest way to nourish an infant. It is also compassionate, increasing the bond between mother and baby. Veganism is a lifestyle choice that seeks to avoid the use of animal products, but it doesn't extend to biological functions like breastfeeding.
Are tattoos vegan?
The vegan status of tattoos depends on the ink used. Some tattoo inks may contain animal-derived ingredients such as bone, so vegan individuals may choose inks that are certified vegan. It's essential to communicate with the tattoo artist and choose vegan-friendly products.
Can vegans swallow?
As hard as it is to take this question seriously, we must. The act of swallowing is a natural physiological function and not related to veganism. Veganism is primarily a lifestyle choice concerning the avoidance of animal products in diet and other areas of life. Moving on...
Are condoms vegan?
Not all condoms are vegan as some may contain casein (a milk protein) or other animal by-products. There are vegan-friendly condom options made from synthetic materials and anyone needing these products should look for products labelled as cruelty-free and free from animal-derived ingredients.
Do vegans kill bugs?
Veganism aims to reduce harm to sentient beings, and this includes minimising harm to insects. While it's challenging to completely avoid unintentional harm, vegans generally strive to live in a way that minimises their impact on all living beings, including insects. If an insect were to land on your arm to kill it would not be vegan, a better option would be to brush it away. However, if that insect is a mosquito and it starts chowing down on your arm, well...