Where's the beef?

Vegetarians use Meatout to spread benefits of veggie lifestyle

Lettuce, tofu and pears. Oh my!

Today is the Great American Meatout, started by the Farm Animal Reform Movement. The event was created in 1985 to "kick the meat habit" at least for a day and possibly for life. The meatout remains the world's largest annual event for dietary education.

FARM is a national organization that promotes plant-based diets, helps to protect farm animals and educates people on environmental issues. The meatout is one of many events, including World Farm Animals Day and National Veal Ban Action, that FARM is responsible for organizing.

Many vegetarians and vegans have been preparing for the meatout by sponsoring events, such as debates and seminars, involving businesses, restaurants and schools.

However, on campus, The Vegetarian Advisory Board is not holding any special events for the day, said Michele Newhard, special projects manager for food service in the Office of Housing and Food Services.

The board is an active group on campus that works with housing and food services as well as vegetarians in order to better accommodate alternative food choices.

Student vegetarians say a meatless diet is the way to go -- and not just on one special day.

Christy King (sophomore-elementary education) said she's been a vegetarian for four years and a vegan for the past year. King said she decided on the change because she has learned about being a vegetarian and its benefits.

"It's a combination between health and personal beliefs about animals," she said.

The meatout is a worthwhile day, King said, because it's an opportunity for nonvegetarians to try an alternative diet.

"(The meatout) makes people aware of something different to eat," she said.

Shana Penczak (freshman-broadcast journalism) said becoming a vegetarian is a personal decision.

"Many people become (a vegetarian) for health reasons or animal rights issues," she said.

Penczak said a group of her friends have also become vegetarians.

Whether people are turned on to the vegetarian lifestyle forever or just for a day, Newhard said the Great American Meatout "boosts awareness."