Vegan

Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a vegan veteran, there’s always something new to learn. From tips for your lifestyle to tasty recipes you’ll want to make on repeat, we’ve got everything you need!

What Is Vegan?

Veganism isn’t just about the food on your plate—it’s a way of life anchored by three main pillars:

Diet: Vegans don’t eat eggs, dairy, honey, gelatin, or any other animal products.
Lifestyle: Vegans avoid wearing clothing derived from animals or insects, like leather, wool, and silk.
Environment: Vegans take an active stance against testing on animals and animal welfare

Benefits of Eating Vegan

Plant-based eaters may enjoy a host of benefits, but it differs from person to person. In general, consuming a veggie-based diet ensures you’re eating lots of nutrients, and some report feeling well rested, more energized, and healthier.

Tips for Going Vegan

Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle? Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Take it slow: This is a personal journey, so take it easy as you stock your pantry, learn new recipes, and get acclimated to this new lifestyle. Instead of leaving everything behind all at once, eliminate milk one week, then cheese another (you get the idea). Cutting back instead of nixing them entirely might help make it easier. You can also swap in substitutes for favorite recipes, like vegan mac and cheese.

Experiment: Try a new vegan restaurant, cook your way through a vegan cookbook, and try new flavors along the way. Soon you’ll be a pro in finding the perfect substitutes to your favorite recipes.

Track your progress: Keep a food journal to help you stay committed! Make a note of vegan-friendly restaurants, dishes you enjoyed, and even how you’re feeling, too (like better sleep or increased energy, for example).

Top Vegan Brands

Stock your vegan pantry with these Thrive Market member favorite brands!

Vegan Rob’s

For snack cravings, look no further than Vegan Rob’s for puffs made with everything from cauliflower to beets, and a little extra protein and fiber, too.

Brussel Sprout Puffs

Certified Gluten-Free, vegan, and low in sugar, get your snack on with Brussel Sprout Puffs from Vegan Rob’s. Every bite has antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.

Louisville Vegan Jerky Co

This brand didn’t jerky around when launching in a home kitchen back in 2012. From savory to sweet, every batch is made with soy-based protein and flavors like maple syrup, olive oil, sriracha, and mustard, so you can sink your teeth into every (vegan) bite.

Maple Bacon Vegan Jerky

Here’s a crispy replacement for bacon made with soy protein that’s lightly brushed with sweet maple syrup, tamari, and spices.

Vega

Vega is another vegan-friendly source of fuel, founded on the belief that you shouldn’t have to choose between plant-based nutrition and on-the-go convenience. With craveable flavors like chocolate, mocha, and berry, you can find your favorite smoothie add-in stat.

Proteins and Greens, Vanilla

Boost your morning smoothie with plant-powered protein delivering 20g of protein per serving. It’s a great way to start your day, or refuel after a workout.

Best Vegan Recipes

These recipes will make your vegan kitchen extra delicious.

Vegan Mushroom Bolognese

Vegan Italian night gets magical thanks to shirataki noodles soaked in a rich sauce packed with mushrooms, veggie stock, fresh rosemary, and garlic, of course. The vegan Parmesan is addicting—you’ve been warned!

Jackfruit Jambalaya

Southern food goes vegan with jackfruit jambalaya. This one-pot meal is made with lots of veggies, chickpeas, and authentic spices.

Vegan Meze Board

If variety is the spice of life, this meze board keeps things interesting. With options like hummus, olives, artichoke hearts, breads, and peppers, this is a no-fuss way to make a meal. Perfect for making a week’s worth of lunches, or entertaining with friends.

Vegan Shells n’ Cheese

Here’s a 30-minute meal that’ll hit the spot. Shell-shaped noodles made with chickpea flour pair perfectly with broccoli and a cashew-based sauce that brings the flavor with garlic, onion, and nutritional yeast.

Vegan Fig Carrot Cake

This sweet ending is made with cassava flour, a vegan and Paleo-friendly starch that can often be used as a 1:1 sub in your favorite recipes. The cake is filled with warm spices like nutmeg and cloves, then spread with an irresistible cashew-based frosting.