Traffic jams: annoying. A sudden rain shower when you just left the hair salon and have no umbrella: annoying. Chatty talkers when you are trying to relax at a spa: annoying. The takeout delivery guy forgetting something in your order: annoying. Loving animals, saving the planet, enjoying yummy vegan food: not annoying. Vegans are Not Annoying: Here are 10 Reasons Why.
So, why this post instead of a recipe today? Today I listened to this awesome interview on NPR about how a new breed of boys, including two of my faves, Joshua Katcher and Dominick Thompson, are claiming their masculinity by embracing veganism.
After I listened to the audio, I started reading the webpage comments and was shocked to read such negative replies after such a rockstar, easy-going interview .. and on NPR. I would expect as much on say, BuzzFeed or even YouTube. But NPR? One of the oddest comments was how someone insisted that vegans are annoying. Why? Well his google search suggestions confirmed it for him. Well OK then. I was so mind-boggled that people are STILL so discriminatory towards vegans, calling them (me) annoying, that I decided to comment back here on my blog.
(This seems like such an obvious thing to me, but I guess I live in my happy Los Angeles, vegans-are-super-cool bubble. So for everyone outside the bubble, lets go..)
These are the comments that kinda inspired this... from the NPR article linked above:
Hi, my name is Kathy. I am vegan. And my friends and family will vouch for me, I am not annoying.
Annoying is a tricky word to use to describe an entire group of people. Because "to annoy" someone is really a relative feeling. What annoys me may not annoy you. But without specifics, and without using singular cases or people to describe an entire community (because you find some annoying people in every group) lets take a big picture look at veganism so that I can lay down to truth, hopefully once and for all: on average vegans are not annoying.
But before you delve into this post, maybe check out my 5 reasons for why I am vegan so you can understand the why of this story.
10 Reasons Why Vegans Are Not Annoying
1. We are Nice. Vegans care an extra special amount for animals. They care. They have emotions. They are responsive to the pain of others. Animals and (in most cases I have seen) humans too. So give them a big glossy, sunshine white smile because they will most likely return the grin and give you a friendly nod. Nice people should not annoy you.
2. We Bring You Food. We are often offering to bring you food. Seriously. We will bake you cookies, make you appetizers for parties, share our recipes and make you cupcakes on your birthday that you will swear were "just like your mom used to make." Vegans LOVE to share vegan recipes and so if you want us to make you food, just ask. We know that the BEST form of unobtrusive/non-annoying advertising for the vegan lifestyle is to get people to try the yumminess. Example: My non-vegan friends are always asking me to bring some vegan goodies to parties, both so I will have stuff to eat (just in case) and also so they can try out the food and taste what all the vegan buzz is about. Free food = not annoying.
3. We Were Probably Just Like You. I used to dunk my McDonald's chicken nuggets in barbecue sauce and honey. I used to eat pork chops (well maybe one bite until I cried to my mom). I used to slather A1 sauce on my steak. I used to smother my baked potato in dairy sour cream. I used to break eggs for my omelets and gobble down slices of dairy cheese pizza. I used to be just like you. I respect the old me and the new me. Obviously after living in both worlds, I choose the vegan me. But that also means that I respect you, whatever you eat. I know that non-vegans can take 180 turns and suddenly want to go vegan. I know that your view of food can change in an instant or morph slowly over time. I know all this. I was you. Now I am me. So just remember, when you think I do not know "how amazing!!" bacon tastes. I do. And I do not miss it for even a second.
4. We are Cool. I hate to have to go here, but it is true. Veganism is trendy. And in the superficial part of life, being on top of trends and knowing what is "hot" can help with your coolness appeal. And in case you have missed the boat, a giant, huge amount of "cool" celebrities and people are either going vegan, trying vegan, secretly leaning towards "vegan-ish" or are 100% waving their vegan flag. Warning, name dropping alert here. For starters, JLo recently went plant-based. No matter what her reasons, she did it. And looks amazing. Same for vegan-ish Beyonce and JayZ. More dedicated plant-based eaters include James Cameron, Toby Maguire, the coolest girl in school a la Clueless fame Alicia Silverstone, Ireland Baldwin (she was trying to be vegan and follows FindingVegan.com on Twitter), Carrie Underwood, Ellen Degeneres, Jared Leto, Rooney Mara, Moby, Jessica Chastain, Joaquin Phoenix, Casey Affleck, Bill Clinton = veganish (as are many celebs) and more and more and more. Coolness smashes annoyingness in the social game of life. If you are standing next to Jared Leto and Carrie Underwood at a party and thinking "OMG these two! How annoying." You best be re-evaluating life.
5. We Get It. Lets get real folks. You know what? We get it. You like to eat meat and eggs and cheese. That is fine. I actually do respect that and I do not think I am better than you. I understand that being 100% vegan is not for everyone. Yes, most vegans totally wish with our shiny pink hearts that everyone was vegan, but we know that is not the case. Most of us love you just the way you are and will not judge you for your meat-eating ways. Though, when asked, we will go into long rants and lengthy explanations as to why we think you should at least try veganism, or eat more vegan versions of your favorite meals. But again, WE GET IT, most of us do not rant unless specifically asked. Do not ask and expect us to be shy. We get the differences between you and me and we respect them.
6. We Have Non-Vegan Friends and Family. No, vegans are not born in a vegan bubble. Most vegans I know nowadays were brought up in non-vegan households with meat eating parents and siblings and hang around plenty of non-vegan friends. We are not in our own little vegan worlds, Although yes we are a very friendly bunch so we make vegan friends easily, and love swapping salad and vegan cupcake recipes with our vegan buddies. But I love my non-vegan friends and family just as much as my vegan friends and family. No bubbles here, we live in the same world, and deal with the same annoying sh*t in life. We are actually on the same team. The team of life. Lets share in life's REAL annoyances together.
7. We are Actually Really Amazing at Restaurants. If you think "you cannot take vegans anywhere," think again. I am actually a freaking PRO at dining out at ANY restaurant. I have ordered vegan meals at steak houses. I can veganize menu items in a flash, like a swift unicorn. I know every specific question to ask the waiter to make sure my order is plant-based, and I do it all with a quiet voice that I promise you won't even be able to hear on the other side of the table. I am basically just like someone with a food allergy, or gluten intolerance. I take a bit more love and care, but after the ordering is done I am just like you. And no, you do not even have to ever ask me this question: "Did you find something you can eat??" Yes, yes I did. And if the restaurant is not easy to customize, I will be happy with whatever I eat because you know us vegans, we are a happy bunch. And I can totally make myself something amazing when I get home. I chose this lifestyle, and eating light at one meal is no big deal to me, I just love hanging out with YOU. And if you are grabbing the bill, guess what, the "veg" option is usually the cheapest thing on the menu. Winner. And ps: There are some mind-blowingly delicious vegan restaurants out there, so take a chance and come dine with me. I'm talking about you, Pure Food & Wine, Real Food Daily, Gracias Madre, Veggie Grill, Native Foods, M Cafe, Blossom, Babycakes, Flore and on and on. So seriously, chill out at the table, I totally have my meal plans covered.
8. We Do Not Shout Things at You. You know those shout-y protesting vegans? I am sorry if they annoy you, but get over it. I know some of them and they are actually really cool people. Like amazing, in fact. I love them for sticking up for animals in a loud way. But I also realize that shouting, no matter what you are protesting, is going to have to possibility of being annoying to some. In the words of Elsa, let it go. There are ALL sorts of shouters and activists out there, many of whom are not vegan. Sometimes people need to scream, even non-vegans, and that's ok. There is all sorts of noise in this world, it shouldn't bother you if you have an inner calm in your soul.
And ps. most vegans are not even the shout-y type. We have strong values for why we do not use animal products, but if you do not want to hear it, most of us will let you chomp on your meat in peace.
And although sometimes all I want to do is shout and scream and cry and SHOUT about how much it saddens me that animals are treated so inhumanely. But I know that once people start shouting, most people stop listening. So when asked, I will carefully, respectfully, passionately discuss with you why veganism is something that I am proud of and adore in my life. But no, I do not shout at you.
9. We Spread the Positive Happiness. As a vegan, I eat amazing food, I feel happy about it and I feel great about the glow I have inside and out. I feel great about saving animals at every meal and embracing compassion. My vegan diet makes me feel amazing. It also makes me feel all glow-y inside. So instead of a grump, with most vegans, you get a cheer-filled person to interact with. I am enthusiastic about the food I eat and overall I am one big positive proton to hang around. Hanging around positive people turns you into a more positive person. And the happy lovefest rolls on and on. (I mean really, most truly annoying people I have met are very grumpy on the inside and share their grumpiness with everyone else.)
10. We Can Take a Punch without Unleashing Drama. Vegans know how to take punches with grace. Go on, insult us. Make fun of our rabbit food diets. Tell us we look like Olive Oil and need to eat some protein, aka a big fat juicy beef burger. Because we all know plants have ZERO protein. (Wait, tempeh has 24g of protein, lentils have 18g per serving??? No way.) Tell us we look anemic. Tell us we are weak and wimpy and in need of nutrition, all while we run marathons, power through our days and explore the big beautiful world in front of us. Tell us that you have no idea where we get our protein, what we eat when we are traveling and how in the world we survive without REAL ice cream, all while we spoon-lick our creamy full-fat coconut milk ice cream. Tell us we are "the vegan" in the room, and greet us with a chuckle by saying, "Oh you are THE VEGAN." Tell us we are SO sad for not being able to eat bacon and hot dogs and cheese. Tell us we really are not helping the world because we feed our cats meat. And that plants have feelings too. And do we know how many bugs are killed in the farming of spinach? Tell us we are annoying. A million times, say it. I promise you, we have heard worse. We have experienced meaner glances and dirtier looks in our days. Whispers and groans, fake smiles and glances. We have heard it all. And beyond. But through it all, through all the bullying and strife we STAY VEGAN. Why in the hell do we do it? Why do we allow ourselves to be bashed so much? We stick it out. Through the punches. Because this vegan thing is pretty darn cool. Pretty darn amazing. And totally life-changing.
If annoying means, proud, happy, blissful, enthusiastic, animal-loving, Earth-loving, people-loving, sharing, food-generous, analytical, empathetic, passionate and understanding ... well maybe you should google "annoying." Wait, I will do it for you..
an·noy [uh-noi] verb
1. to disturb or bother (a person) in a way that displeases, troubles, or slightly irritates.
..So, "annoying" is really all relative, isn't it? What annoys me may not annoy you. So if kind, cool, progressive, animal and Earth lovers annoy you, maybe you should take a look at YOU before judging me.
My bottom line: "There are annoying people out there. And some of those people are vegan. But I do not think it is the vegan part of them that is annoying, more the people part of them." - Me
And if yucky food just annoys you and you think that is what vegans eat, well just take a looksy at my recipe index or FindingVegan.com
Or just gawk at 18 vegan toast recipes, because that really should get your mind off all of this..
photo credit, Kathy at top: my BFF Jen Loo
More Vegan Topics to Browse:
- 15 Tips for Going Vegan
- Protein on a Vegan Diet
- When Did you Realize You Were a Veggie Eater?
- Finding Vegan Meals - meal plans
- Vegan for the Animals
- My Philosophy: Vegan Food + Life
- 5 Reasons Why I Am Vegan
- Vegans are not annoying: 10 reasons why
- Doc to Watch: Before the Flood
- For the kids: 105 after school snacks
- Gallery browse my vegan recipes
Carl says
I can deal with vegans and vegetarians, but not when they are annoying.
Carl says
My colleagues say I am very nice and I am not Vegan or Vegetarian.
Carl says
How do you think plants feel when you eat them?
Jeffrey Parker says
Glad to know. So do I. (A self admitted omnivore, myself.) Also, my stepbro is vegetarian. Might not be the same thing, but I respect his choice. He's a good guy, and a great stepbrother. I honestly respect him. I get it as well. It is your choice, and I will do my best to respect it.
Guest says
You wrote "I know every specific question to ask the waiter to make sure my order is plant-based". Can you please list these questions? It will be much appreciated. Anyway, thanks for a great blog.
Casey Lee Anderson says
now why don't i believe this bullshit, oh wait, it's californians(the people who live in california) are vegans only well, only the celebrities at least. to be honest with y'all, and in the future in or around holidays, i would make a neat little rule once my children leave the house. 1. if you are coming to visit for the holidays, you are going to eat what i cook end of story so leave your vegan attitude or appetite at your house, otherwise don't bother on coming for a visit until 1 week after thanksgiving and 1 week after christmas, i know this might seem mean but this is a rule i stick by for the rest of my life, true vegans have options but there are better things to eat out there than giving up animal products entirely. it's called organic "meats" not soy-based meats i'm talking about organic raised means, like grass-fed beef and other stuff found at your local foodstore, and technically being a vegan means you would have to buy supplements pills or powder form to eat to make up for the missing nutrition or buy a hell of lot of can foods. or fresh veggies. and ask your doctor for prescription supplements. I don't think i would be able to give up meat entire but i gave up or partially gave up one type of meat, i mean i gave up or partially gave up pork or any type of pork-based products(like pork rinds and all that stuff) it's more partially than entirely because i allow my self to have 3 pork-helpings( or 3 meals) per Jan, Feb, Mar, April, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, and Oct, and increased the helping to 4 helpings(or 4 meals per Nov. and Dec. and I've tried the health milks, soy-milk and almond milk, i've tried the chocolate soy-milk(if you are going to drink soy-milk then you have to drink it like coffee in other words sip it until the cup is gone, and for almond milk i don't mind the original i buy the vanilla flavored 90 calorie almond milk.i've tried the orignal though, and it's disgusting, so i'm sticking with vanilla almond milk. because almond milk tastes a hell of alot better than soy milk thats' for dang sure and i'm still drinking regular milk as well just so you know the almond milk is just to help balance out my moods and I'm 25 yr old heterosexual(straight), genetic(xy chromosome), adult male and I still present myself as such just so you know.
loving omnivore says
Remi had a great point, it's a very valid article and anyone who says all vegans are annoying is obviously making a huge generalization, but not an invalid one due to the fact that, like Remi said, the only ones we hear are the incredibly vocal ones who do judge people and call omnivores murderers and they make life harder on the rest of the vegans because they're what people think of first when the term vegan comes up. Sorry but there are a lot of veganazis out there who seem about ready to commit mass murder to get people to stop eating meat and ours unfortunate that they have become a large voice in the vegan movement
Jutta Gyllichsen says
I agreed and respected you until point 4......seriously? If i see leto or underwood i would prob. not even recognize them nor think them anything special. Coolness is just lame.
Remi says
I am vegan and even I find most vegans annoying. I was told I wasn't vegan because I live with meat eaters. I also get told I am not vegan for feeding my dogs a diet of raw meat and owning a snake. How is anyone meant to take veganism seriously when we are fighting within the movement?
Kathy Patalsky says
There are definitely "annoying" moments in any class of diet. I find it annoying when meat eaters post "it needs bacon" or something stupid "jokes" on my blog of social media. I also fine it annoying when vegans are overly "vegan police-y" online. Moments of annoyance are unavoidable. But basically I am trying to say that vegans are good hearted people in general. Their dietary values show that on some level. And to cast a blanket statement of "vegans are annoying" is just poor propaganda from the anti vegans.
But I totally agree with your point. There are some annoying people. But vegan or not, they are annoying people, not annoying vegans. If that makes sense 🙂
People who say you are not vegan bc you feed your pets or kids or whoever animals products are indeed annoying people. I agree!
Remi says
I think it is because a few bad apples spoil the bunch. A lot of us vegans are 'quiet' about our diet and only really talk about when asked or when ordering food or whatever but the annoying vegans are loud and outspoken and very in your face. It is all people really see of people who are vegan and it makes it easy to forget that the our diet doesn't 'define' most of us and we are just like everyone else.
One thing that annoys me every time when speaking to meat eaters is when they ask "do you even enjoy food?" or my favourite "you need some protein" "What would you do if I fed you some cheese?" "How would you know if I snuck meat in your food?" they would never say any of these things to meat eaters "what would you do if I fed you broccoli?". I answer politely of course but in my head I am murdering them with a head of cauliflower .
That being said I understand that my diet is 'different' and expect questions and answer most of them happily!
Kanna-Chan says
You have a weird definition of "nice". Nice people are not constantly judging other people's eating habits, nor implying they are murderers and throwing red pain on people who wear fur.
Kristi says
This is the one of the greatest posts I've ever read! You're awesome! 🙂
Kathy Patalsky says
🙂
Sascha says
I LOVE this post so, so much! I have been vegan two years and a half, and was a vegetarian for 18 years before that. In ALL these years, I have never met an annoying vegan. I know they do exist: the vegan who thinks 'fake meat' is bad because it looks like meat, the vegan who things faux fur is bad because is 'promotes' the use of fur and the vegan who will hassle the vegetarian about still eating cheese. But let me tell you something: boy have I met a few annoying omnivores.
Before cracking down on vegans for being 'annoying', ask yourselves how tolerant you really are. Newsflash: making vomit noises as we open our lunch box, going 'bleargh' every time we mention tofu or broccoli or talking about how 'plants suffer' is very annoying. Fact.
After countless omnivores moving away from me at lunch because of my Brussels sprouts ('eewww!!'), while I diligently stayed put as they munched on their stinky cheese, after so many omnivores going on about protein while eating ham and mozzarella (where are your vitamins dude?) I would be inclined to come to the conclusion that omnivores are annoying.
But I will not. Because I don't judge an entire group based only on the people I've met. And I think it's sad that so many other people do. But hey, if you're ever in London, come by my house, have my husband's vegan lasagne and see if you really find us all that annoying.
Kathy Patalsky says
thank you Sascha! <3
Covfefeghost says
Vs vegans pulling up a pulpit over how evil I am for eating meat, and doing the exact same things you describe? Barging in on someone else's overheard conversation when someone else asks if I'm cooking a turkey or a ham for thanksgiving, and loudly proclaiming "OMG! Why would you feed on the carcass of a dead animal!! You murdering sicko!" "Omg! Do you KNOW! how much that "insert animal" suffered for you to consume it you, you're evil!"
Tom Swayer says
LOL What have I just read! HAHA! Is this a troll?!?!
Chuck Robinson says
Clearly you have not seen the bad part of veganism. I can't count the times I have been called scum for not being vegan.
Covfefeghost says
I've been called hitler before by vegans lmao
Vincent Forrest Tippens says
This entire post is "Why I don't think *I'M* an annoying vegan", as almost everything you've stated here is from your viewpoint as an activist vegan.
The entire reason why people think "Vegans are annoying" is related to them being extremely aggressive and hateful, bashing anybody who doesn't subscribe to the mindset. You have vegan extremists and evangelicals who refuse to accept that others won't convert, and who insult others for eating meat. It becomes a religious thing at that point.
After the first fifty or so vegans insulting you, you stop seeing differences between people who claim to represent a viewpoint and the negatives are (perhaps unjustly) attributed to the entire group.
Kathy Patalsky says
where are you having 50 or so vegans insult you? Seriously, I am curious.
You have to realize that the loud and obnoxious vegans will always have the LOUDEST voice, so take their loud and annoying words with a huge grain of salt and remember for every one loud person, thousands of non aggressive vegans sit compassionately in the wings.
Thank you for chiming in though -- and seriously, where are these 50+ obnoxious vegans?
🙂
Covfefeghost says
There are some who take it to the violent level even.
Katherine Ann Stevenson says
The hilarity here is that you took time out of your day to seek out a vegan website just to say you don't like vegans. Perhaps you should focus on what you do like instead. Ps: I'm not vegan, but I respect most vegans (and I like this lady's recipes).
Tom Swayer says
im guilty of it too, i was just wondering why i found vegans confusing and a bit overly preachy
GAIL says
WHY WOULD ANYONE WANT TO BE MEAN TO SOMEONE FOR THIER CHOICES IN FOOD?
Ashley says
I disagree with #5 for myself. I in fact have lost respect for a few people in my life because they care more about "mm bacon" than the countless reasons I give them to start going cruelty-free. No, I do not "get it" that people can turn a blind eye time after time (I get that everyone has to start somewhere, but when you refuse to start then yes I'm judging you).
Tyas says
You went wrong on reason #2. Omnivores always have to adapt to your lifestyle while we never get the same treatment in return. Only few vegetarians actually serve meat to carnivores, if you impose rules on others don't feel offended if people don't like it.
Guest says
They Kinda Are :/
Yasemin Akdemir says
And in addition: I think every cook should be happy about the challenge to create something different from the monotone everyday menue. And for the waiters: You're working more or less in the service sector, so your job is to please the guest wishes, or imho it should be. Please don't moan... its so annoying :3
Yasemin Akdemir says
I think i really adore you! <3 This blog just makes me smile. Selfironic, honest and exposing stereotypical thinking. Thank you. And i have to admit that vegans, vegetarians or people who just care about their environment are indeed mostly nicer persons, because they know that their behaviour affects the world. I would not say that non-vegans are not nice - don't misinterpret, please - but statistically vegans are calmer, mainly because of the 10.point mentioned above and therefore non-violent. But yeah exceptions are everywhere.
Marquez73 says
Oh my god, vegans are so much nicer than me just because they don't eat animals! Oh my god. I am just as nice as you, only I am as nature created me, an omnivore, not some fucked up "superior" person. It's nature, vegans, HUMANS EAT MEAT. Look at your teeth. See those pointy teeth? Now look at animals. Which animals have those teeth? OMNIVORES. There are vegans who don't give their children meat and then those kids have health problems. GUESS WHY.
Kathy Patalsky says
Well then that makes you guys big jerks. Karma is a bitch.
registerthis says
Number seven is exactly WHY vegans are so annoying for restaurant staff. You generate tons of extra work. Every time I'm told a customer who is about to order is vegan I am filled with dread.
Ludo N says
that is pretty sad.
Purplicious says
Hahaha. This post is worth reading just for the part that says...like a swift unicorn. <3
Kathy Patalsky says
I'll take that 😉
natiann123 says
Great post. I am not vegan but I do eat clean, and BOY do I get SO MANY negative remarks. I don't comment on what others eat, they need to stay out of our business too! 😉
Heather McClees says
Kathy, I think this is my very favorite post you've written. I shared it on my blog today in fact!:) (Hope ya don't mind:)
I deal with this issue so much because people want to actually argue with me about eating this way even though they'll often say, "Well no wonder you look so healthy or have so much energy", yet they can't seem to understand WHY most of us are vegan or that you don't have to eat plates of beans and rice each meal to get your protein.
I live in a household full of meat eaters and as hard as it is for me NOT to beg them to eat the foods they eat, I respect their choices even though I watch them suffer health issues I know would change if they would just open their eyes. Sadly, they're animal lovers but have chosen to "stay in the dark" as they put it because they can't imagine giving up traditional foods to live this way.
They don't see me as annoying but I do think they (and most other non-vegans) believe being vegan isn't feasible or possible. I know we can't change others but I appreciate you being such a positive impact for the world (and for me) about how being vegan can be completely delicious and easy in the blink of an eye.
Sorry for the lengthy comment but I really loved this post and agree with you 100%.
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank you Heather! I am so glad you loved this post. I hope many more people can read it and get a sense of where vegan waters are truly coming from. I get so sad whenever I hear someone casually call vegans annoying. It's not fair and it's not right. So I hope everyone can stand up and say, hey guys, nope you have it wrong, vegans are AMAZING people and here is why. 🙂
AK says
SOME vegans are amazing people. Others are not. It's the bad apples that make the rest of the group look bad.
I myself eat a healthy diet of everything. I have amazing vegan friends but I also have ones who judge people for what they eat and even go as far as calling them "murderers" or wishing death upon them. And that is obviously not cool.
But of course it goes both ways. Some non-vegans are amazing while others are not...
Lisa Appleton says
I LOVE this post. Makes me happy and proud just to read it 🙂
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank you Lisa!
Mandy Tirado says
I love this post! We are ovo vegetarians, on our way to veganism. We've been taking steps to full on vegan over the last few years. Most of our family members don't get it and they say we're eating strange foods. How strange is it really to just eat fruits and vegetables, beans, rice, lentils and whole grains? It's what people ate before processed foods came along! We just refrain from meat and dairy. It's not weird. It's healthy. It's weird to me that my parents eat out at fast food places 4/7 nights a week and weigh over 300 lbs each. That's weird. I've lost 100 lbs thanks to my "weird diet."
designby says
Thanks for this post. I have pretty thick skin and can let the smart-ass remarks slide by with ease. However, thank you for reminding me what a blessing it is to have chosen this life. I feel that being being vegan is a gift of grace. I agree, there is a time & place for the 'hard-sell' vegans - bless their hearts. I tend to win the hearts & minds (and stomachs) by cooking for whomever I can. My next step is to infiltrate the mainstream - I'm going back to school for my R.D. and work with cardiac patients. I absolutely love this life!
Mary Preston says
I just want to say something as a primal/paleo omnivore. I do not think all vegans are annoying. I love my vegan friends, my vegetarian friends and my SAD diet friends alike. What gets me is that I looove animals and I am also trying to save the planet. I believe that some of our crop farms are killing the planet just as much as the CAFO animal farms. I am worried when people think that simply going vegan is going to save the planet, if they are not also paying attention to where their food is coming from. One reason I do eat my meat and my veggies from locally sourced farms, is that I want to vote with my dollars. I want them to stop over planting corn and soy and stop ruining our farmland as much as I want animals to stop being tortured. We are destroying this planet. And *sometimes* I get angry arguments from *some* vegans about my choices. We are all trying to save the planet and reduce suffering in our own ways. I really wish we could all work together.
Notyourbuisness says
Annoying when you cannot eat their food due to allergies and they try and sneak you avocado anyway. If you cared so damn much you would listen when people tell you NO.
Stephanie C says
"Their" food? How about the many many times when people try to feed vegans meat or dairy to sneak it into them, because they think it's funny or their diet is stupid, or they feel they "need" animal products in their diet? This happens all the time, and can actually make them really sick since their bodies are not used to these items. It goes both ways.
Íris Santos says
I'm still a vegetarian but this was a damn good post 🙂
Lisa @ The Meaning of Me says
This is a wonderful post, Kathy. I am not vegan, but my family eats more vegan meals in a week's time than I would ever have imagined. The recipes you have here on your blog are wonderful so thanks for them! I really like the comparison you made to someone with a food allergy or sensitivity - very true! Our daughter has very negative reactions to food dyes and sometimes when we are out people look at us like we are crazy for asking about what's in a particular menu item. But overall, we have found that people are very willing to listen and help - it just takes a quite minute to explain.
Jennifer M Parra says
I love this post Kathy! You said everything Ive been feeling since Ive gone vegan. What Ive started to do is indirectly comment on a comment that goes against me, not in a mean way just in a humorous passive aggressive way, i find that gets my point across when someone is being intentionally mean. I am in love with my new found vegan-ness and i find that people can sense it in me, and thats what makes people want to try it too... i do my best not to get offensive, or weird at restaurants so that people can see how easy it is, not because im pretending, but because i honestly love this lifestyle, the food, and how i am the healthiest ive ever ben in my life. My only regret is not having done this sooner!
Hope says
I'm not vegan, but you, along with some other awesome vegans have inspired me to really decrease the amount of animal products my household uses/consumes. On behalf of omnivores, I am sorry for all the negativity. I think vegans are amazing, and who knows, I may end up making the switch completely one day.
RockMyVeganSocks says
Love this post!!! I am always super annoyed at people who are anti-vegans without even personally knowing any.
Berenice says
I respect vegans but I really do not see how milk and eggs can harm animals. Some do not even eat honey, which is something bees leave in the hives - they do it anyway and are not harmed at all if one eats it (BTW, I don't). Please, explain it to me.
Ledboots says
Calves are removed from their mothers shortly after birth, and the sad crying from the calf and wailing from the cow will break your heart. The male calves are killed mere months after birth after being held captive in the dark, for veal. Females are artificially inseminated over and over, their offspring and milk taken. As far as eggs go, the male chicks are often tossed right into a grinder because they jave no value. Hens are kept in tiny cages, beaks cruelly cut off, with other cages on top of theirs, the chicken feces covering everything. They have short, tortured lives.
Cynthia Ellsworth says
If you enjoy a form of bee vomit and chicken periods go right ahead. I am baffled as to how I was so blind to how disgusting that was for so many years.
Ludo N says
I recommend documentaries such as "Earthlings" and "Meet your Meat". The dairy and egg industries are incredibly cruel, and really just part of the meat industry because once the cows and chickens are milked or have layed to capacity, they are sent to the slaughterhouse. Baby male chicks are ground up alive because they have no use. It goes on and on.
Epp says
Bees don't leave honey as a residue, it's the food they're storing for the winter and to feed their babies, usually when people take it away they'll have to give them sugar as a replacement but it has little nutritional value, it's not the same, and because this leaves them weak it eventually makes it easier for any enviromental effect to destroys entire colonies. Also, the taking of honey is not as clean as you think, a lot of bees die in the process. Also beekeeping is actually one of the factors that is reducing the amount of bees and placing them dangerously at risk of extinction.
7iThor says
Some people are just more sensitive to criticism or perception of criticism. I live in the bible belt and the south and I get teased/lectured about not being religious or not eating meat every now and then. But I don't think all meat eaters or religious people are annoying just because some people have tried to tell me what to do. I don't even think the people lecturing are annoying as a whole, just engaging in an annoying behavior.
But I think some people's lesson in life is getting over their sensitivity to feeling judged. If I say, "I don't eat meat" to someone offering me meat based food, I am not making a judgement on the other person but sincerely expressing information about me (I don't want people to think I am always declining their food for no reason so it seems like the considerate thing to do to explain why I decline). But I think some people think it is a way of passing judgement. I don't get it but it is what it is and that is an issue they have to work on, not me. I have my own issues! 🙂
Also, learned something new! Had no idea unicorns were swift at veganizing meals! That is an awesome takeaway from this article!
Emily K. says
Dont let all the hating on vegan eat ya kathy (pardon the pun). Some people are morons and just dont get it. All the haters can eat their words when they are diagnosed with clotted arteries. We love ya!
smihilist says
the fact that you conflate morality with your identity is the problem. Cultural background is different, but of course I am critical of people who base choices solely on religious identity.
Katherine B says
Hahaha. I love this! I think we have very similar spirits. Especially loved the comments about the shiny pink hearts and swift unicorns. 🙂
Lauren (@PoweredbyPB) says
Love this!
Dana Roberts says
This is awesome - I hope now if "vegans are annoying" ever comes up in google those lucky people click on this article instead : ) You're the best and thanks for sharing! xxx Dana
amykristen says
Kathy, you ROCK! I don't have anything more to add to this discussion because you said it all. Well done!
USKiwi says
Great article Kathy. The one part I have trouble agreeing with is:
"We are actually on the same team. The team of life. Lets share in life's REAL annoyances together.”
I appreciate where you’re coming from on this, but I think when most vegans are asked - animal suffering is one of the life’s real annoyances. As is the human suffering (Heart disease, cancer, etc) that’s the result from a lifetime of eating animals and their bi-products.
I think vegetarians / vegans have to be careful not to become too passive. I agree shouting isn’t the way to get the message to travel the furthest. It just seems like vegetarians / vegans are ridiculed so much that we stop standing up for ourselves.
Yes we have to pick our fights, but important issues like this deserve a calm assertive voice, not a submissive passive one.
Just my opinion of course - everyone has to chose what works for them. I’m probably one of the ‘annoying' ones 😉
AK says
I agree with your point about being assertive. Just remember it's how you present the information. Pay close attention to that, I know MOST vegans mean well but a lot of times they come off as annoying and aggressive without necessarily meaning to do so.
I am an omnivore. But that does not mean, I am for animal cruelty or that I agree with what goes on with processed meat. But too many times I have seen vegans presenting things in an off putting way that makes even the nicest people shy away from the idea because of the people involved in presenting the message and you don't want that.
Perla Farias says
Love this! On top of the fact that this was in response to someone hating on vegans, it was also very refreshing to be reminded to not let people get to you and to be calm and graceful in our healthy ways. There have been times when I feel so snobby talking about being vegan/vegetarian (my passion of course being miscommunicated) but really, if I allow myself to flexible, accepting and not boasting about my healthy life, then people tend to be more loving and receptive. Plus, I like the reminder that we were all there once loving meat and processed foods. Everyone is on a different place in their path and that is okay.
Denice says
I second Kayleigh! What are those specific questions to ask the waiter to make sure my order is plant-based?
Kayleigh says
Please make a post about ordering in a restaurant! I have been vegan for a year, and I still really struggle with this.
Izzy Marsden says
Great list and great recipes Kathy . More than 30 years ago I became vegan because of dairy food allergies, but you know what ? I am so, so pleased and proud to be a vegan. I have found people to be more curious than annoyed, and some people even enjoy the challenge of cooking for me. Even here in France, vegetarianism/veganism is slowly becoming slightly less "odd", and that's a massive shift. Even if I could eat dairy (and I could actually eat eggs now if I wanted to), I wouldn't because Veganism is so cool. Long live Vegans I say !!! and Vegetarians of course !! I love you all !!
Marta Paciorkowska says
Yes! The food! I always bring stuff with me to social gatherings because I know otherwise I might have nothing to eat, and I always make more stuff, to share with others. Nevertheless, I haven't thought about it like that until now. Thanks!
Natalie says
Yes, exactly!! I totally agree. I'm sick of the stereotype and crap that goes along with choosing a plant-based diet. It's really not that much of a big deal! I don't want another soul to die for me to eat a meal. It's that simple.
Chel @ http://chelrabbit.com/ says
I think an individual's identity informs their choices, so yeah, especially since most vegans see food choices doubling as moral choices. You may as well call someone who makes choices according to their religious or cultural beliefs "annoying" or "divisive" according to the same logic.
LIndsey at TheGreenPenn says
I love this list, Kathy! I don't know how many times I've been asked "how do you live without cheese/bacon?!" Easy... Compassion tastes way better! Thanks for sticking up for us. 🙂
jane says
Wow, I feel sorry for you, smihilist! You DO have annoying friends who happen to be vegan. I'm a proud vegan and I agree some are just so loud, opinionated and annoying as f$ck but then they are just annoying, PERIOD. Maybe you need new friends! My vegan friends are caring, compassionate and very accommodating. 😉
What should I eat for breakfas says
hahaha, awesome list. And I know that vegans are not annoying, they're great!
Carl F says
WE BRING FOOD. Truth.
Guest says
Wow, so well said. I'm vegan and I was reading along just thinking "Yes! Yes! and Yes!" to each of your points. Wish my family would agree:)
Angela says
Love this Kathy! Thank you for putting it all out there... and so eloquently!
Ashley M. says
You gave me chills and made my heart so happy with your empowering, optimistic words, Kathy! So well-stated and accurate. Thanks for setting the record straight in a compassionate and awesome way 🙂
Veggiegirl says
Kathy you are amazing!!! I LOVED this! You are an inspiration and powerful voice for all of us vegans everywhere. Thank you for all of your incredible insight and recipes! xox
Kathy Patalsky says
interesting! It is hard for me to fully take a critical perspective on vegans because I have never looked down on vegans, since I always had vegetarian tendencies. But I do remember having many misconceptions about them in the beginning. Like that they were all super healthy wellness obsessed tree huggers. (And I love all those things!) But the EXTREMIST part scared me! Anyone with THAT much discipline seemed scary and odd to me. But the truth is, being vegan is easier (and more enjoyable) than I ever imagined back then and the "discipline" isn't that strict at all. But that is a WHOLE other conversation.
I struggle to agree with the statement that all non-vegans feel guilty inside. I have met some non-vegans who really truly could care less about animals and the environment and their own health. Sad but true. But I know everyone can change too. I did!
To try and bring this comment to some closure: YES veganism is just that: A GREAT IDEA. And I agree that many accepted, genius ideas that exist today were once laughed at. I am guessing that the first person who started guzzling a giant glass of GREEN juice looked a little odd. wait, he is drinking smashed lettuce? Really? But now there are juice shops all over the country bragging about their amazing green juices and charging $5-10 a bottle 🙂
Kelly says
You ROCK!
Kathy Patalsky says
thank you Kelly for the love!
Igor Mozzilli says
So funny! You get it!
Kathy Patalsky says
thanks Igor
Vegan Richa says
this is fantastic post Kathy! the love fest rolls on and on!
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank you Richa! Ya, I think positive people and love fest-ing is pretty darn awesome.
Evolotus PR says
I'm way more annoying than you. 🙂
brittany says
LOVE this Kathy! So fresh and so you and I wanna share all these things with the WORLD! I have been down lately on my veganism cause I'm the only one for miles and miles, but this is definitely how i feel about being vegan! You have renewed my love for being vegan all over again. I needed to hear this. You GO girl!
Kathy Patalsky says
oh good. good. good. That makes my day. If you want to be vegan and feel challenged day-to-day, all I can say is to KEEP GOING. And overall, no need for worry, just do the best you can and embrace what feels amazing and right and happy for you.
brittany says
Thanks, Kathy! Keep up the good work!
jessicaboscarini says
Loved this! All is sooo true!! Thanks 😉
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank you Jessica!
Mai says
LOVED this.
Kathy Patalsky says
🙂 TY
Amanda - Create N Plate says
Love this!! Great post!
Kathy Patalsky says
thank you Amanda!
Claire Elizabeth says
You sound like such a beautiful person Kathy. You're so inspiring and you do shine with a lovely, gentle, and kind joy. Don't let the vegan-haters bug you. You've inspired me to deal with my sister's non-vegan habits (which are actually annoying to me *sniffle*) in a more compassionate way. Hopefully one day she'll come around *sigh*. Also my grandparents glaringly disapprove of my veganism, so I just can't let it get to me anymore. None of the hate could make me stop being vegan anyway! So why let it bother me? Thanks Kathy! God bless you dear! Keep making totally rocking vegan food! Hahahah! ;D
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank you Claire! That is so sweet of you to say, I am SO glad that I have inspired you in any little or big way.
And yes. I have been blogging long enough to learn to ignore/delete the haters and not let them effect my attitude, actions or my day. (Though I love a REAL two-sided debate/discussion, it is pretty easy to tell the difference between discussions and hating.) Keep on hating, I'll keep on loving. (Oh my gawd, I am SO positive! .. wait is that annoying?? If so, remember that is just ME being annoying, not my veganism.) 🙂 🙂
And I always remember this too, "your negative comments say a lot more about you than they do me" .. my fave line ever, from my Veggie Girl Power interview with Sarma M.
Claire Elizabeth says
Your positivity is far from annoying! It is a JOY! That quote is wonderful by the way! Thanks for sharing! Have an amazingly wonderful day!! 🙂
Ginger Meier says
Fabulous post!! Each one of your reasons are right on the money. I am so glad to know that I am not the only one who has experienced some of them. Thank you.
Kathy Patalsky says
Thanks Ginger!
TheMagicLemur says
Generally speaking, if you're going to write an article about why vegans aren't annoying, it's best not to ooze smug self-satisfaction.
nik_m says
Really? Well, perception is all relative...you say "smug self-satisfaction", I say, spot on analysis.
TheMagicLemur says
Really. You don't think "Vegans aren't annoying because we're cool" is smug or self-satisfied? Even a little?
I really don't have a problem with veganism or vegans inherently; I respect others' rights to live how they want to live. I do have a problem with people who are up their own ass.
Gigi says
I think this article was really more intended to make vegans feel better about being called annoying than to really change anyone's mind.
Chel @ http://chelrabbit.com/ says
Yeah. It's hard being hated on all the time. Ain't nothing wrong with a little regroup once in awhile.
7iThor says
She used the word correctly. She even specifically stated that veganism is trendy. Not sure how you get smug or self-satisfied with this. Many people shun trendy things. Embracing trends or shunning them is neither absolutely good or bad. It is just a matter of perspective.
informal
fashionably attractive or impressive.
"I always wore sunglasses to look cool"synonyms:fashionable, stylish, chic, up-to-the-minute, sophisticated; informaltrendy, funky, with it, hip, big, happening, groovy, phat, kicky, fly, styling/stylin'
The Veg Abides says
This rocks so hard, it's actually hard to describe how hard. I may print this out and frame it above my bed. Being a newbie vegan has been eye-opening and daunting, but no one will shake this truth: that being vegan is awesome, amazing, and wonderful. Thanks for this!
Kathy Patalsky says
yes. yes. agree. 🙂 thank you!
Elvita Kondili says
I LOVE this!! Thank you.
Kathy Patalsky says
Thank YOU
kllmaca says
Hi Kathy! I love #7 especially- It made me think, since I often get that comment ("Oh, can you find anything to eat here?!")- I may have missed it, but if you haven't already, I think a "Tips for eating Vegan in ANY restaraunt" might be a great post! It'd show people it's not really that hard... and also give us vegans some of your pro tips on how to best word things, choose healthiest options, make it easy for the restaurant.... just a thought! Great post and beautiful pic too! Way to stay positive in the face of negative comments.
Angybone says
I was thinking the exact same thing! Would love to see some tips.
Kathy Patalsky says
great, will plan on one!
Kathy Patalsky says
great post idea!! I will absolutely put that on my list of posts-to-do 🙂 So glad you liked it!
Polina says
Thank you for a beautiful post - it's a great example how to be tolerant even when someone isn't as tolerant to you. There are many strangers in web and you never now if they really mean what they had said or they just want to make buzz. But there are still many misconcerns about vegans (and sometimes because it's a "trend" now - there are always those who are "in trend" and those who are "against trend"), and this topic is really calm but reasonable. Thank you!
Kathy Patalsky says
thank you Polina! 🙂 Glad you liked it
Audrey says
Wow, great post. Everything you wrote is absolutely true!
P.S: Just to let you know, in reason #6 you wrote "...I love my non-vegan friends and family just as much as my non-vegan friends and family"
Kathy Patalsky says
thanks will correct! haha Thank you
Natalie @ Feasting on Fruit says
So well said! I'm going to have to try to remember all of this next time I'm in one of those sticky vegan-meets-non-vegan situations.
Kathy Patalsky says
Perfect! Or just text them the article if they give you disgruntled looks 🙂
saniel says
What is your take on all these bloggers straying from a vegan diet, vegan blonde and Carrie on vegan? Claiming vegan diet has made them suffer illness and are now eating animal products but still love the animals. One person told me I wasn't vegan if I didn't embrace the lifestyle not just food but clothing, household cleaners, beauty, rain barrels, composting etc.
Guest says
Well yeah if you use leather, wool, fur, products tested on animals...you aren't getting the point of being vegan, non violence. Buying that stuff means you are still paying others to harm and kill animals, same as meat eaters and vegetarians do. You are just on a vegan diet. Not the same thing.
Rain barrels etc is more tenuous, if they mean protecting the environment so as to keep animals from losing habitat etc, then yeah its all part of veganism.
Lisa | The Viet Vegan says
There is a difference between eating plant-based and being vegan. Diet is only one part of a vegan lifestyle because it's more than physically eating meat that contributes to animal harm and suffering. Honestly, it is pretty much impossible to be ABSOLUTELY vegan because you need manure to fertilize crops, you need bees to pollenate trees and plants, and you are probably taking meds that were once tested on animals or components of which were tested on animals.
Essentially, you do what you can, as long as you're working towards a world safer for animals. It bugs me when people say things like "You're not being vegan enough" because I don't boycott restaurants or brands that aren't 100% vegan, but that's only a minuscule portion of people who do that.
Clare says
I think it's good to work towards making better choices like not buying wool or products tested on animals, but it can be overwhelming. I wish there was less of a black and white, you are either vegan or you're not mentalilty. I think any effort towards harming fewer animals should be welcomed. If someone tells me they could give up all animal products except cheese then I say do it! I realize that is not vegan but it's better then doing nothing is it not? If people are ready to make small changes or give up some animal products I think that is a good thing... and who knows they could easily move towards a full vegan diet in the future... but becoming totally vegan is not realistic for everyone. I think we get too caught up in the labels and it can be harmful to the overall goal of harming less animals.
tonyasibu says
Love this!!
John Hartil says
Yeah...so cool ^_^
Kelsey Steele says
This is wonderful! Thank you for writing this. I often needlessly worry that I am annoying other people for being vegan, so it's great to read such a happy and inspiring post about being vegan. 🙂
geraldshields says
Come y'all. Of course I know I'm annoying. For me, being a vegan is about eating to live, not the other way around. Though I don't hype my veganism, whenever I see a story about E-Coli or some pathogen in red, or processed meat or hear a story about how researchers are working to cure diabetes or some autoimmune issue, it's like "Come on folks, the 'cure' is already known ; just stop eating the stuff that's causing the disease!" The truth is that vegans ARE annoying, but for their honesty for we harbor an inconvenient truth: That the consumption of animal protein of any kind can hurt us. The haters can't handle it, but we got to keep saying it and we have it live it.
Jaelle says
This is wonderful to read! Thank you for brightening my morning!
Joanna says
Love this post!!!
Sheelagh says
Great post! Thanks for sharing your positive thoughts on the awesomeness of being vegan! Also, if you have (or decide to write) a post on which questions to ask and alterations to make to always find something to eat at a restaurant I would love to read it! I often travel for work for long periods of time in small towns where greasy-food joints are the only meal option and find creating a whole, healthy, enjoyable meal a challenge sometimes. Would love to hear how you do it!
bex says
Kathy, all you've done is generalize an entire group which is no different from making a statement such as vegans are annoying. Certainly, some vegans will be like the list you've provided but others won't. That said, the real issue here has nothing to do veganism. What the poster is really complaining about is an issue stemming from insecurity which elicits the need to control the thoughts, feelings and/or actions of others. Sometimes this is due to feeling like their own life is out of control so they unconsciously try to fix it by controlling everything and everyone around them. There are people like this in every walk of life. If the individual the poster found annoying wasn't vegan but instead was an enthusiast of sports, knitting, sewing, accounting, religion, politics, etc., it would rear its head there. Sometimes you'll find it rearing its head in multiple areas. In this case, the poster may have found the experience especially vexing because eating is such an intimate experience.
I've been around individuals who are vegan who are like this. For example, several years ago, I had dinner with a group of people who either identified as eating a plant-based diet or as vegan. (I identify as eating a plant-based diet but at the time I identified as vegan.) One of the people lectured me throughout the dinner because she felt that I was cheating by choosing to eat seitan and other faux meats. In her mind, this was promoting eating meat so she spent the dinner trying to prove to me that I wasn't a vegan. Let me tell you, it was an insufferable experience. This person was definitely annoying. But I've also run into people who are the same way about dog training, knitting, yoga, various religious denominations, etc.
My advice to you is to do away with lists refuting such statements. You'll just fall into the same trap of generalizing that they do. Instead, either take the time to explain to them what's really going on or best yet, ignore their statement and continue to live your life. The best way to win over someone who's made a decision like this is to let them see that not all vegans are like this. Actions in this case speak louder than words.
Just my 2¢.
Sayward Rebhal says
Love this post! You are awesome and make an awesome case, so thank you for sharing. VEGANS ARE AWESOME!
Anonymous says
Kathy, you go girl! Thanks for speaking this out for me. I am not 100% vegan (mostly vegan but sometimes lacto vegetarian), but I face the same kind of questions/comments. More power to you, keep rocking!
Kathy Patalsky says
🙂 TY. I needed a "you go girl" after publishing this. Hope it lends a silly-meets-serious voice to a topic I love!