I found this article while researching for a project on veganism. I think it's important to know where your favourite products are coming from, especially if there is a risk of animal abuse/exploitation. It is possible to enjoy what animals produce, including honey, eggs and milk, knowing that the animals were treated with respect throughout the process.
Stay calm, be aware, and shop locally!
https://www.elephantjournal.com/2012/01/beekeeping-and-the-ethical-vegan-will-curley/
I've worked at 2 vegan restaurants, and there's always a lot of crossover with "health and wellness" types. At one place in particular a lot of people would get mad at us for using agave syrup because "it's basically high-fructose corn syrup", and would ask why we don't use honey.
ReplyDeleteI would have to sheepishly reply with, "honey is an animal product..."
Bees are important to the global eco-system so if keeping bees can help support them, I'm all for it. They're not just at risk from pesticides, but also a parasite that's all across the country and basically turns them into zombies until they die. The only place immune thus far are a few isolated colonies on the east coast.
ReplyDeleteGreat article Olivia! I wasn't aware of this issue until a few years ago when I attempted to eat a vegan diet. After joining a vegan group, I realized quickly that going vegan was not only a change in diet, but it was also a moral obligation to our dear animals. This carried over into the clothing, sweetener, food and the expectation to advocate to others about veganism.
ReplyDeleteI would agree with this article, that local beekeeping is more ethical than commercial honey production. I certainly notice an increase in fruit production on our fruit trees now that our neighbors have honey bees. I think the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.