Ryan

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Speciesism is the belief that one species, typically humans, is superior to others. It influences how we treat animals daily. People adore their pets, dogs, cats, birds, but when it comes to cows, pigs, or chickens, they're often treated as commodities for food, clothing, or entertainment.

Historically, many cultures and religions have ingrained the belief that humans are superior to animals. Religious texts, like the Bible, have been interpreted to place humans at the top of the "creation hierarchy," justifying animal exploitation. This speciesism has become normalized in many societies.

Humans often favor their own species, creating biases that justify unequal treatment of non-human animals. These biases allow us to overlook the suffering of animals simply because they are different from us, even though they experience pain and emotions similarly.

The rise of industrial farming in the 20th century, coupled with the mass production of meat and dairy, has desensitized people to animal suffering. Industries that profit from animal exploitation work to maintain speciesist attitudes, using marketing to downplay the suffering of animals and normalize their exploitation.

From a young age, people are taught that some animals, like dogs and cats, are companions, while others, like cows and pigs, are resources for food. This socialization reinforces the idea that some animals deserve compassion more than others. For example, many are unaware that cows must be impregnated to produce milk.

Though many are aware that animals suffer, they often disconnect emotionally from the animals used for food, clothing, or entertainment. This defense mechanism allows them to continue their behavior despite the ethical implications. How many refuse to watch footage of factory farm abuse but still consume products like bacon or milk?

Modern farming practices have distanced people from the realities of animal exploitation. The suffering of animals is hidden from view, perpetuating speciesism by keeping the truth out of sight.

There’s also Anthropocentrism, the belief that humans are the most important species on Earth, reinforcing the idea that animals exist solely for human use. This worldview leads to the belief that human needs always outweigh the needs of non-human animals.

Speciesism is deeply rooted in culture, economics, psychology, and socialization. It’s perpetuated by historical norms, cognitive biases, and industries benefiting from animal exploitation. Practices like eating meat, wearing animal products, and using animals for labor or entertainment have been passed down through generations, becoming normalized.

At the core of speciesism is the belief in human superiority, which leads us to disregard the well-being of non-human animals. But is it fair? Is it ethical?

The term "speciesism" was popularized by philosopher Peter Singer in his 1975 book Animal Liberation. Singer argued that the primary consideration in how we treat animals should be their ability to suffer, not their species. He compared speciesism to racism or sexism, as all involve discrimination based on an arbitrary characteristic.

This matters because, like other forms of discrimination, speciesism leads to unnecessary suffering. Non-human animals can feel pain, fear, and joy, just like humans. Many animals, like pigs and cows, are more intelligent than we often give them credit for. And considering these are some of the most exploited animals in the Western world through factory farming, this truth is troubling.

The issue isn’t just about species but sentience—the capacity to feel. Animal rights activists argue that we must treat all sentient beings with equal moral consideration, meaning their ability to suffer should matter, regardless of species. This belief has fueled the rise of the vegan movement and plant-based diets, which have grown exponentially in the past decade.

Equal moral consideration means caring for animals not just because they look cute but because they can feel and have emotions like us.

The good news is that you can make a difference. Many are shifting to plant-based diets, choosing cruelty-free products, and rejecting unethical entertainment venues that exploit animals. By making mindful choices, we can help reduce speciesism’s impact. Whether it’s choosing plant-based foods, supporting animal welfare organizations, or simply being kinder to animals, it all adds up.

#speciesism #Anthropocentrism #animalexploitation

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Do Vegans Need B12? The Truth About Vitamin B12 and Plant-Based Diets. Vitamin B12 is essential for our health. It plays a crucial role in making red blood cells, maintaining nerve function, and keeping our DNA in check. But here’s the thing, B12 is almost exclusively found in animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs.

Vitamin B12 is produced by bacteria that live in the guts of animals. These bacteria produce B12, which gets absorbed into the animals' bodies and stored in their liver, muscles, and other tissues. Getting enough B12 on a vegan diet is actually pretty easy. It’s just a matter of being aware and taking a few simple steps.

Many plant-based foods are fortified with B12. This includes things like fortified plant milks, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast, also known as nooch, can be sprinkled on pretty much anything for a powerful nutritious boost, and even packs a hit of protein and is low in calories. When you’re out buying your groceries, check the labels. If it says 'fortified with B12,' you’re good to go.

Another option is to take a B12 supplement. It’s often recommended for vegans, especially if you’re not getting enough from fortified foods. A daily or weekly B12 pill is all it takes to keep your levels up. Seaweed is often touted as a plant-based source of B12, and while it’s true that some types contain B12 analouges, it’s important to note that these may not be as bioavailable or effective as the B12 found in animal products. So while seaweed can help contribute to B12 intake, relying on it alone may not provide enough of the vitamin to meet daily needs. It’s always a good idea to check with a healthcare provider to ensure you’re getting the right amount.”

Making sure you get enough B12 isn’t just a concern for vegans. People who eat modern farmed meat should also be mindful of B12. While meat contains B12, the quality and quantity in modern farmed meat can vary, especially since farmed animals are often given B12 supplements in their feed.
Modern farming often involves the use of antibiotics, which can impact the gut microbiome of both humans and animals. In some cases, antibiotics can disrupt the production of B12 by bacteria in the animals’ digestive systems. In fact, many omnivores might not be getting enough B12 from their diet without even realizing it, especially if they eat a lot of processed meats, or if the animals they consume were not raised on a natural diet.

Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or an omnivore, if your B12 levels are low, you might experience symptoms like:
Fatigue
Weakness
Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
Cognitive decline (memory loss, brain fog)
Anemia

How much B12 do you actually need? For the average adult, the recommended amount is around 2.4 micrograms per day. It’s not a lot, and it’s super easy to get from fortified foods or a supplement. Higher doses are often recommended for those who have difficulty absorbing B12 from food or those with a deficiency. Only a small percentage of B12 is absorbed at lower doses (around 1-2% for doses above 500 mcg), so higher doses can help make sure enough gets into the bloodstream. If someone has low B12 levels or certain health conditions (like pernicious anemia, digestive issues, or vegan diets), they may need a higher dose to restore and maintain normal levels.

Now, you might be wondering, ‘Can I get too much B12?’ The answer is no, it’s very rare. Since B12 is water-soluble, your body will just flush out any excess, so there’s no real risk of overdose.

Can vegans be healthy without B12? The short answer is no, but it’s easy to avoid deficiency with just a little planning. If you’re new to veganism, it’s a good idea to pay attention to your B12 intake early on. It’s one of the few nutrients that requires some extra attention. While it’s common for vegans to get questioned about their vitamin B12 intake, everyone, whether they’re eating animal products or not, should be aware of their B12 levels and take steps to ensure they’re getting enough. Just remember, don't stress about B12, it’s easy to stay on top of it.

#plantbased #vegan #b12

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"Vegans kill more animals than non-vegans." Sounds like something you might hear at a family dinner or on an ill-informed podcast. You’ve probably heard it from anti-vegan folks. They argue that growing crops for plant-based foods, like soy, corn, or wheat, kills more animals, like insects, rodents, and birds. And on top of that, they claim vegans are too naive to realize animals are killed by crop farming.

Really, though? Is that actually the case?

The main source of direct animal deaths in our food system is animal agriculture. This is where billions of animals, intentionally, are bred, raised, and slaughtered every year for meat, eggs, and dairy. And yes, it’s a huge number. It’s estimated that over 70 billion animals are killed globally each year for food. That’s billions of chickens, cows, pigs, and more, all bred and raised with a single purpose, to end up on someone’s plate.

And that's not even counting the impact of industrial fishing. Trawlers, with their massive nets, can capture hundreds of thousands of fish in one haul. But the toll doesn’t stop there. These giant nets also trap bycatch; animals like turtles, whales, dolphins, manta rays, and sharks that weren’t intended for capture, but suffer the same fate. This bycatch often includes endangered species and wreaks havoc on marine ecosystems, contributing to the decline of marine biodiversity.

Not only that, but the agricultural industry, particularly livestock farming, is one of the leading causes of habitat loss around the world. Forests and grasslands are cleared to make way for grazing land or to grow animal feed, displacing wildlife and reducing biodiversity. This loss of habitat is devastating for countless species and is another major consequence of our food system.

Crop farming does cause some harm to animals, specifically, incidental deaths. But here’s the key part: these deaths are incidental. They happen because we’re growing food to feed humans, not to deliberately kill animals for food or profit. So, while the harm is unfortunate, it’s not even in the same ballpark as the systematic, intentional killing that occurs in the meat and dairy industries, where animals are often trapped in horrendous conditions that amount to torture. Plus, the majority of crops grown around the world are actually used to feed the animals that are raised for slaughter. Vegans aren’t supporting industries that breed and slaughter animals specifically for food, and that makes a huge difference.

Vegans are reducing harm on a massive scale. By cutting out animal products, vegans directly reduce the demand for animal agriculture. That means fewer animals bred, raised, and slaughtered for meat and dairy, and fewer crops grown to feed the 70 billion animals raised per year for food, meaning fewer animals are killed in crop harvesting. And what about the environmental impact? Well, it’s not just about the animals. The entire system of plant-based food production has a much smaller carbon footprint than meat production. It uses less water, less land, and produces fewer greenhouse gases.

We should absolutely care about minimizing harm in crop farming too. There are better farming practices like organic farming, regenerative agriculture techniques, and even wildlife corridors that can protect animals’ habitats. But the key difference is that veganism is part of a broader movement to reduce harm and promote sustainable food systems. It’s about moving away from systems that breed and kill animals for profit.

Does being vegan cause more animal deaths than eating meat? Absolutely not. In fact, it’s the exact opposite. By choosing plant-based foods, we’re reducing the demand for factory farming, lowering our environmental impact, and helping to end the systemic killing of animals for food.

#vegan #veganism #plantbased

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Have you ever wondered why some vegans make their food look like meat? Vegan burgers that sizzle like beef, crispy "chicken," or plant-based sausages that resemble their butchered counterparts — what’s the deal with this trend? Is it hypocritical? In this video, we explore the reasons behind these plant-based innovations and how they’re redefining what it means to eat sustainably.

From ethical choices and environmental benefits to making social connections through food, we dive into why vegan food that looks like meat isn’t just for vegans — it’s a game-changer for everyone. Whether you're a meat-eater, flexitarian, or considering a plant-based diet, you'll see how these alternatives help reduce harm to animals, protect our planet, and promote better health without sacrificing the flavors you love.

Health & Environmental Benefits - Plant-based meats not only reduce your environmental footprint but also offer healthier alternatives with lower saturated fat and more fiber. Learn about the innovations in plant-based food science that make these alternatives satisfying and delicious.

Cultural and Social Connections - Family barbecues, holiday dinners, and social gatherings are often centered around food — and vegans want to be a part of it too. Discover how plant-based meat alternatives help create inclusive moments, allowing everyone to enjoy a meal together, without feeling left out.

Expanding Possibilities - It’s not just about mimicking meat. It's about expanding the possibilities of food and embracing a more sustainable, health-conscious future.

If you’re willing and able, here are just some actions you can take for Conservation, Climate Change and Animal Welfare;

. Adopt a Plant-Based Diet: Reducing or eliminating animal products lowers demand for factory farming, which is a major driver of deforestation, habitat destruction, animal cruelty and greenhouse gas emissions.

. Support Sustainable Brands and Companies: Choose products and services from companies that prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, reducing emissions, minimizing waste and animal welfare in their practices, such as those with certified Fair Trade, organic, or cruelty-free labels.

. Advocate for Wildlife Protection Laws: Support and raise awareness about policies that protect endangered species, regulate hunting, and safeguard critical habitats from destruction through legal means.

. Reduce Energy Consumption: Cut down on electricity and fuel use by investing in energy-efficient appliances, utilizing renewable energy sources, and adopting green practices like switching off lights when not in use and reducing car travel.

. Plant Trees and Support Reforestation Efforts: Trees are vital in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, protecting biodiversity, and supporting wildlife habitats. Participate in local tree-planting initiatives or donate to organizations focused on reforestation.

. Conserve Water: Freshwater is a limited resource, and conserving water helps maintain critical ecosystems and supports agricultural and wildlife needs.

. Educate and Raise Awareness: Spread knowledge about conservation, animal welfare, and environmental issues. Sharing information on social media or in your community can inspire others to take action.

. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste by opting for reusable products, recycling materials, and choosing items with minimal packaging to reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources.

. Volunteer for Conservation Projects: Donate time to wildlife rescue centers, local environmental groups, or global conservation organizations. Direct involvement in conservation efforts can have a meaningful impact on local ecosystems.

. Choose Eco-Friendly Travel: When possible, opt for sustainable travel options like walking, biking, or using public transport.

. Advocate for Climate Policy: Contact local representatives, vote for pro-environmental policies, and join climate advocacy groups pushing for legislative change.

. Compost: Start composting organic waste to reduce landfill contributions and improve soil health.

. Support Sustainable Tourism: Travel responsibly by choosing eco-friendly tours and hotels that prioritize sustainability and wildlife protection.

. Support Wildlife Corridors: Advocate for and support the creation of wildlife corridors that help animals move safely through their habitats.

. Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives: Join local efforts to clean up beaches, rivers, or parks to remove trash that can harm wildlife.

. Practice Sustainable Gardening: If you're growing a garden, use eco-friendly techniques that reduce pesticide use and support biodiversity.

. Adopt, Don’t Shop: Consider adopting rescue animals instead of buying from breeders or pet stores, helping reduce the demand for animal breeding and the number of animals in shelters.

#vegan #plantbased #meatalternatives

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Yellowknife Phorotographer, Lenora Barrett discusses her approach to ethically and respectfully photographing wildlife.

https://www.facebook.com/LenoraBarrettPhotography2015

If you’re willing and able, here are just some actions you can take for Conservation, Climate Change and Animal Welfare;

. Adopt a Plant-Based Diet: Reducing or eliminating animal products lowers demand for factory farming, which is a major driver of deforestation, habitat destruction, animal cruelty and greenhouse gas emissions.

. Support Sustainable Brands and Companies: Choose products and services from companies that prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, reducing emissions, minimizing waste and animal welfare in their practices, such as those with certified Fair Trade, organic, or cruelty-free labels.

. Advocate for Wildlife Protection Laws: Support and raise awareness about policies that protect endangered species, regulate hunting, and safeguard critical habitats from destruction through legal means.

. Reduce Energy Consumption: Cut down on electricity and fuel use by investing in energy-efficient appliances, utilizing renewable energy sources, and adopting green practices like switching off lights when not in use and reducing car travel.

. Plant Trees and Support Reforestation Efforts: Trees are vital in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, protecting biodiversity, and supporting wildlife habitats. Participate in local tree-planting initiatives or donate to organizations focused on reforestation.

. Conserve Water: Freshwater is a limited resource, and conserving water helps maintain critical ecosystems and supports agricultural and wildlife needs. Use water-efficient fixtures, avoid wasting water, and support organizations that protect freshwater ecosystems and wetlands, which are vital for both wildlife and human communities.

. Educate and Raise Awareness: Spread knowledge about conservation, animal welfare, and environmental issues. Sharing information on social media or in your community can inspire others to take action.

. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste by opting for reusable products, recycling materials, and choosing items with minimal packaging to reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources.

. Volunteer for Conservation Projects: Donate time to wildlife rescue centers, local environmental groups, or global conservation organizations. Direct involvement in conservation efforts can have a meaningful impact on local ecosystems.

. Choose Eco-Friendly Travel: When possible, opt for sustainable travel options like walking, biking, or using public transport. When traveling long distances, support eco-conscious tourism operators that prioritize conservation and minimize their carbon footprint.

. Advocate for Climate Policy: Contact local representatives, vote for pro-environmental policies, and join climate advocacy groups pushing for legislative change.

. Compost: Start composting organic waste to reduce landfill contributions and improve soil health.

. Support Sustainable Tourism: Travel responsibly by choosing eco-friendly tours and hotels that prioritize sustainability and wildlife protection.

. Support Wildlife Corridors: Advocate for and support the creation of wildlife corridors that help animals move safely through their habitats.

. Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives: Join local efforts to clean up beaches, rivers, or parks to remove trash that can harm wildlife.

. Practice Sustainable Gardening: If you're growing a garden, use eco-friendly techniques that reduce pesticide use and support biodiversity.

. Adopt, Don’t Shop: Consider adopting rescue animals instead of buying from breeders or pet stores, helping reduce the demand for animal breeding and the number of animals in shelters.

#photography #wildlifephotography #wildanimals