Since 1985 March 20th has been synonymous with Meatout. It’s the first day of spring and a chance to pledge to go meat-free for a day, one day a week, or for life!

To promote Meatout, I joined Action for Animals in Seattle’s busy Westlake Park yesterday. The St. Patrick’s Day parade was ending, and the streets were packed. We handed out meatout flyers and gave out free samples of Tofurky slices and Silk soy and almond milk.

Rachel and Paris offering flyers and samples

The reception was great! people loved the free food and most commented on how delicious it was. We wanted to show people that you can eat healthy, tasty food and be cruelty-free.

Why pledge to be meat-free?

• For the animals. In the US alone, over 10 billion land animals (chickens, pigs, and cows primarily) are raised cruelly, and slaughtered painfully.
• For the planet. Animal agriculture is the leading cause of deforestation, global warming, and water use.
• For our health. Heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and many types of cancer are diet-related and what we eat can improve the quality–and length–of our lives.

So this Wednesday ditch the meat! If you want to take it further, try Meatless Mondays every week, or go all the way and be vegan!

Get your free vegan starter guide with delicious recipes at meatout.org or by texting meatout to 55678.