Is Vitamin D3 vegan?

Good Morning and Welcome to the VedgyVoice! This week we have news of exciting new supermarket product launches, tips for incredibly tasty tofu, our favourite BOSH! recipes and a look at Vitamin D3 and it’s vegan status.

What’s Happening?

THIS and Planted Launch Plant-Based Chicken Shawarma & Tikka Skewers in UK

• THIS and Planted have launched new vegan chicken products in the UK, targeting the rapidly growing plant-based chicken market projected to expand significantly by 2032.

• THIS introduced "THIS Isn’t Chicken Shawarma," boasting hyper-realistic shapes and textures, available in ASDA, Waitrose, and Co-op from May. Planted launched Chicken Tikka Skewers, exclusively in selected Tesco stores, emphasizing environmental benefits.

• The launches reflect strategic brand development in the vibrant UK market, focusing on quality, innovation, and sustainability to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Another Sustainable Alt Protein Source: Bamboo Shoots Found to Contain Proteins Similar to Cow’s Milk

• Bamboo shoots have been identified as a novel source of alternative protein, containing essential amino acids and nutrients comparable to cow's milk.

• They offer health benefits including antioxidant, antimicrobial properties, and potential in preventing obesity and diabetes, highlighting their versatility and nutritional value.

• Despite challenges such as toxicity and sensory aspects, bamboo shoots are seen as a sustainable food option that could contribute to global food security and nutrition.

Flora aims to disrupt cream category with new vegan cream

• Flora has launched its professional plant-based cream products, Flora Plant Cream, in UK supermarkets, aiming to revolutionize the creams category with a dairy-free alternative that chefs in prominent restaurants and cafes highly regard.

• The product, which cannot be overwhipped and does not curdle or split, is part of Flora's ambitious "Skip the Cow" campaign designed to appeal to young consumers and stimulate growth in the category.

• Flora's marketing efforts for the cream include a national TV campaign and collaborations with chefs and influencers, highlighting the product's environmental benefits, such as a potential 65% reduction in climate impact if UK shoppers choose it over dairy alternatives.

Copenhagen Fashion Week bans exotic skins and feathers, setting a new standard for sustainability in fashion

• Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) has announced a ban on exotic skins and feathers, building on its previous prohibition of fur, to enhance sustainability in fashion.

• The ban, effective from next year, positions CPHFW as a leader in ethical fashion, with hopes that other fashion weeks will adopt similar practices.

• CPHFW also mandates participants make eco-conscious material choices, with at least 50% of their collections meeting specific sustainability criteria, promoting animal welfare and environmental responsibility.

Waitrose Introduces Oat Milk Coffee Machine

• Waitrose has introduced an oat milk option in its in-store coffee machines, starting with a trial in its Wimbledon branch, offering a dairy-free alternative for hot drinks.

• The initiative reflects the increasing demand for plant-based milk options among consumers, aligning with sustainability trends and dietary preferences.

• The supermarket chain encourages customers to bring their own cups for free hot drinks, supporting environmental efforts to reduce single-use coffee cup waste.

Let’s Talk About Vitamin D3

I’ve realised from a few recent discussions I’ve seen on social media that there’s a bit of confusion around Vitamin D. Specifically Vitamin D3 and whether or not it can be vegan (Vitamin D2 is sourced from plants and is vegan). So thought it was worth clarifying that for anyone that’s unclear.

Traditionally, Vitamin D3 is sourced from animal products, primarily lanolin which is a wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep (I guess you could call it sheep sweat… Ewe. OK that was a baaad joke.) However, advancements in science and a better understanding of alternative sources have paved the way for vegan-friendly Vitamin D3.

Vegan Vitamin D3 is derived from lichen, a unique plant-like organism that grows in symbiosis between algae and fungi. So there you have it, Vitamin D3 can indeed be vegan. When you are looking for a Vitamin D supplement or a multivitamin that contains Vitamin D, make sure the labelling confirms that it’s vegan D3 or D2.

Watch & Learn

How to Make Tofu Taste 10X Better!

Personally I love tofu now but completely understand the initial struggle of trying to figure out how best to make use of it. Here’s a few fantastic and varied options for super tasty tofu.

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What’s Cooking?

It might officially be spring but the weathers still cold and wet enough to warrant indulging in some hot and tasty comfort food. We’re big fans of BOSH! recipes as they are generally super simple and mega tasty. Here’s a few of our favourites:

Cauliflower Tikka Masala You can’t beat a good curry and it’s such an easy (and tasty!) way to increase your veg intake.

Teriyaki Tempeh This is a great takeaway alternative when you need something speedy and satisfying.

Ultimate Vegan Lasagne A healthy and tasty family favourite. Who doesn’t love a lasagne?

Sticky Orange Tofu Really simple and deliciously tangy Chinese style dish. The only issue is that it’s over too quick!

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