Discussing the Pros and Cons of Veganism

Secondary school students have been asked to discuss the pros and cons of veganism in pairs,

before sharing their ideas with the class. Claire and Noah are working together and

discussing their ideas…

Noah: Are you a vegan, Claire?

Claire: No, I’m not. Personally, I think it would be very challenging to adjust to and

maintain a vegan lifestyle. Food choices are extremely limited and eating out would be very

difficult too. What do you think of veganism?

Noah: Well, I’d like to be a vegan for health reasons. A vegan diet has proven health

benefits. Eating lots of whole grains, vegetables and fruits means that your diet is higher in

fibre, vitamin C and iron and lower in saturated fats… this reduces the risk of heart disease,

obesity, and lots of other diseases too. Have you ever watched the documentary film ‘Forks

over knives’?

Claire: No, what is it about?

Noah: It’s all about how we can fight and control diseases by changing what we eat. It’s very

compelling! It shows how we could eliminate cancer and diabetes by eating plant-based

foods!

Claire: Really? I’ll have to watch it… I know you’d like to have a vegan diet for health

reasons, but what about ethical reasons? Isn’t that why lots of people decide that they want to

have vegan diet?

Noah: Yes, many people want to avoid cruelty and suffering to animals, so they refuse to

contribute to it by buying any food or products associated with the exploitation of animals. I

feel quite strongly about that too.

Claire: Personally, it’s something I’d like to find out more about… I’m guilty of eating food

because I enjoy it and not thinking about how it got there.

Noah: Me too, we can be very selfish when it comes to food. But when you see the animal

abuse on farms and exploitation arenas, it’ll definitely make you want to play a part in

fighting against it.

Claire: I agree, I’m intrigued to find out more… Oh… times up… let’s share our ideas…