05/09/2020
Statistical evidence suggests that LGBTQ people, particularly the young and politicised, are more likely than a control sample of the population to take an interest in animal welfare, the environment and alternative ways of living including vegetarianism and veganism. In fact, with the sheer amount of vegan food now available, it's questionable whether it really is an alternative lifestyle anymore, and could well be considered part of the general mainstream that surrounds us. For the third year running, Bristol has toppled the radical city of Portland in Oregon, as the most vegan friendly city on the planet. Local independent newspaper B247 takes up the story, reporting that according to an analysis of internet traffic, good food magazine Chef's Pencil, has found that not only has veganism increased in popularity by one hundred per cent on 2015, but also that Bristol, with its network of cafes, shops and takeaways, is the most vegan in the world. ““This south western English city has long been a center of alternative living,” says Chef’s Pencil. “It has snatched the crown for top vegan city from Portland in 2018 and has remained on top for the third consecutive year.” The B247 article concludes by noting that despite coronavirus, or even because of it and its implications for environmental concerns, veganism is more popular than ever before. They say “Bristol’s food and drink scene continues to reflect the growth of veganism: Oowee Diner opened a new store, Oowee Vebab, in summer 2019, Suncraft on Gloucester Road and nearby Koocha on Zetland Road are both vegan and have opened in Bristol in the past two years”. The fact that the city of Bristol has overtaken Portland in the States is a great accolade too. Portland is often noted for its vibrant gay scene, its independence of thinking and diversity of ways of life, so it's not easy to beat. Well done to all of Bristol's vegan, vegetarian, and organic businesses and campaign groups for making the third year at the top possible.