Navigating social life when you’re following a plant-based diet can sometimes feel daunting, especially when you’re just starting out, perhaps with the help of a platform like Veganuary or The Veggie Challenge. But even if you’re a seasoned vegetarian or vegan, occasions such as family dinners and eating out with colleagues can sometimes be tricky to navigate.
However, the good news is that, as plant-based eating becomes increasingly more mainstream, navigating these kinds of social situations is getting easier. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can enjoy every bite and every moment, without worrying too much about upsetting the social equilibrium. Here are a few hints, tips, and suggestions.
as plant-based eating becomes increasingly more mainstream, navigating these kinds of social situations is getting easier
Party on!
The crisis: You arrive at a party and realise the only thing you can eat is a handful of crisps or sad, dry biscuits – or nothing at all!
The resolutions:
- Bring a crowd-pleaser: Contact the host beforehand and offer to bring a plant-based dish to share. It could be a platter of hummus and veggies, a batch of brownies, or a hearty pasta salad. It’s a thoughtful way to contribute and ensure that there’s something you’ll enjoy. Plus, it’s an easy, non-confrontational way to let your host know that you’re following a plant-based diet.
- Emergency snacks can save the day: Try to always keep a small but satisfying snack in your bag — maybe a flapjack, some nuts, or a piece of fruit. It can be a lifesaver if the buffet lets you down.
- Keep the conversations light: If someone starts asking you about your diet, stay upbeat, particularly if it seems as if they might be looking for some conflict. “Well, it’s working for me so far!” is often enough. If someone asks for more details, share a bit, but steer clear of heavy debates unless you’re really in the mood or you sense that they’d really like to know more about plant-based eating.
Getting out!
The crisis: Your colleagues have chosen a spot with minimal plant-based options, and you’re stuck scanning the menu for something edible.
The resolutions:
- Do some sleuthing in advance: Take a quick look at the menu online before you go and try to spot any vegan-friendly dishes — or ones that can easily be adapted. A quick phone call to the restaurant in advance will nearly always ensure that you can arrange something that suits you.
- Customise confidently: But if you didn’t get the chance to arrange something in advance, don’t hesitate to ask if a dish can be tweaked when placing your order. Most chefs are happy to either omit or swap out dairy products. For example, you may be able to swap cheese/sour cream for guacamole in a burrito, or change out meat for beans and extra veggies.
- Suggest a win-win venue: If you’re involved in choosing the restaurant, pick one with plenty of options for everyone. That trendy new pizza place that offers vegan cheese? Perfect!
On the road
The crisis: Airports, service stations, and restaurants in unfamiliar countries can feel like a barren wasteland for plant-based eaters.
What to do:
- Pack like a pro: Snacks are your best travel companions. Think oatcakes, small jars of peanut butter or almond butter, dried fruit, or even a small container of cooked oats. And don’t worry about the strange looks you get on the train when you’re unpacking your tupperware – these things are character-building.
- Scour the internet: Sites like HappyCow are great for finding vegan-friendly restaurants, even in more remote locations. For popular destinations, check out our plant-based guides to cities like Amsterdam, Berlin and New York (and more!).
- Learn some phrases: If you’re travelling abroad, learning how to say “no meat, no dairy” in the local language can be a game-changer. Write it down or save it on your phone if you’re linguistically challenged and struggle to learn basic phrases!
- Be flexible: Sometimes, it’s about making the best of what’s available. A side salad, chips, and a baguette can become a surprisingly satisfying meal. Especially if you’re starving because you forgot to book a plant-based meal for your long-haul flight!
- Plan ahead: That way, you won’t need to be so flexible!
Family matters
The crisis: The centrepiece of the family meal is a giant hunk of roast turkey or roast pork, and every side dish is slathered in butter.
What to do:
- Bring something to share: Whether it’s a lovingly prepared nut roast, a colourful freshly chopped salad, or a tray of delicious roasted veggies, bringing a plant-based dish to the table can help you – and others – to enjoy the meal without worrying about going hungry or feeling unsatisfied.
- Bring your own ‘meat’: If you’re going to a function where you know there’ll be a meat-based centrepiece, pack something like a plant-based burger or some veggie sausages that can be quickly cooked alongside other items. The host will appreciate the effort and you’re guaranteed to have a satisfying option, without having to make do with a side salad.
- Focus on the occasion: Acknowledge the effort the host has put in, and don’t let the food – or lack of plant-based options – become the centre of attention. Compliment the table, chat with loved ones, and enjoy the moment.
- Stay chill: If someone asks about your choices, explain your approach to eating calmly and without turning it into a lecture. Most people are genuinely interested once they know you’re not out to convert them.
- Don’t be afraid to ask: Always remind the hosts that you follow a plant-based diet, even if “the host” in this case is your mom or dad. Putting a big dinner together can be stressful for many people and it’s easy to forget about people’s dietary preferences – but harder to forget if you remind them!
Festive season dinner tips
There’s no need to skip your favorite traditional dishes, especially with so many plant-based alternatives now available! Check out this quick guide to festive favorites for some helpful tips to make your holiday celebration unforgettable.
Say yes! and savour the moment
Social life and plant-based eating don’t have to be at odds with each other, and there’s no reason why having a good time with friends, colleagues, and family has to be stressful. With a little preparation, some creativity, and – most importantly – a relaxed approach, you can navigate every situation, from parties to pub meals to adventures in far-flung places.
So, say yes to the invites, savour every moment, and allow plant-based eating to become a liberating and energising force in your life, rather than a constraint. With these tips, you’ll be thriving – both socially and health-wise!
Plant-based Alternatives
Vegan alternatives are now available for nearly all animal-based foods. The selection is getting bigger all the time, offering a range of culinary possibilities that is cruelty-free and consumes fewer resources.
Simon Middleton
Senior Writer
