Amid Vegetable Shortage, Dancing ‘Tomato’ and ‘Cucumber’ Urge Support for British Growers
In the midst of the UK’s fruit and vegetable shortage, two PETA supporters dressed as a cucumber and a tomato danced outside 10 Downing Street, urging environment secretary Thérèse Coffey to support British plant-based farmers. Ahead of the cabinet meeting, the colourful duo carried signs reading, “Vegan From My Head Tomatoes” and “Get a Clue-cumber: Support British Growers”.
The food shortage has left us in a pickle, but the solution is simple: the government must support UK crop farmers and stop giving subsidies to the failing animal agriculture industry. Making greener choices can help prevent future food shortages, are kinder to animals, and protect the environment.
We Need Farmers, But Farmers Don’t Need to Keep Animals
Farming animals for food is a cruel business. In today’s meat, egg, dairy, and fishing industries, piglets’ tails may be docked without painkillers, chickens’ throats are cut while they’re still conscious, cows are forcibly separated from their beloved calves, and fish are cut open while they’re still alive.
Vegans and non-vegans alike rely on farmers – who do you think grows the oats for our milk? We need farmers, but farmers don’t need to raise animals.
PETA is celebrating UK crop farmers across the country with our Farming Awards and a new video – make sure you watch until the end!
Crop Farmers Help the Planet
Farmers who switch to growing vegetables, grains, pulses, and fruits not only reduce animal suffering but also help the planet: animal agriculture is a leading cause of environmental destruction, as it requires massive amounts of land, food, energy, and water while emitting huge quantities of greenhouse gases.
Researchers at the University of Oxford recently determined that current agricultural systems make it impossible to meet climate commitments even if all other sources of greenhouse gas emissions were eliminated.
Support British Growers – Eat Vegan
Every time you opt for locally grown, plant-based food, you are supporting farmers. Order a free copy of our vegan starter kit or take our vegan pledge for inspiration on meals, recipes, and more!
