Author: The Food Yogi

You and I are Brilliant

You and I are Brilliant

“I used to be conceited once, but now I know I’m brilliant” – Rodney Turner

LOL, my dad (Rodney Turner) was a character, always the joker and always the one to say something outrageous; however, sometimes he spoke some gems. In all seriousness, the above statement taken literally is outrageous, pompous, and a little cheeky, but when we understand our true nature as souls, the statement gets some legs. You see, all of us, from the single-cell organism to biologically complex humans, are essentially souls having a physical experience, and what is the nature of the soul? It is as brilliant as the sun, and it “illuminates the entire body by consciousness,” says Krishna in the classic scripture known as the Bhagavad-gita.

My father may not have understood the spiritual significance of his comically motivated statement during his physical presence here on earth, but I’m sure he did when he had to leave his body at death.

Death is our greatest teacher, with old age a close second. Both of which provide clues to our true eternal nature as a soul. As we age, things start to break down or stop working the way they used to. As young men, we are motivated by sex, and our body responds accordingly.  But, as we get older, sex is not as motivational as it once was, and our aging bodies comply. The same can be said of our voracious appetites as teenagers. I remember well how much food I could easily digest in one sitting, whereas now at age 54 I have to be more mindful of how much my stomach can digest.

Wrinkles, reduced vision, hearing, and memory are all reminders (clues) that this body (temple) we call “home” is on borrowed time and at any time it can be taken away and we will be forced to evacuate and move to another physical shell. Unless of course, we are successful in raising our awareness to such a state that we are fully detached from this material world and purified of the ensnaring desires of lust, greed, and anger. Then, according to the Bhagavad-gita, we can transcend the bond of material nature and move into the higher spiritual frequencies.

The fact is, as souls, we are truly brilliant in all aspect, for just as a spark has the same quality as fire, we as a soul have the same qualities as the Creator, only in smaller quantity. It may take us many thousands of physical bodies to awaken to this truth but eventually, our ultimate success is assured. My dad, in all his quirkiness, was actually onto something and it is one of the fondest memories I have of him. He would often say this after potting a ball on the pool table and his natural confidence rubbed off on me, however, it was not until many years later when I decided to become a monk that his statement revealed its true worth.

Thanks, dad.

PS. In my latest book, SOUL POWER I go into great detail about our true nature as souls. Get your copy here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to understand our true nature as souls?

Understanding our true nature as souls means recognizing that we are more than just our physical bodies; we are eternal beings with inherent brilliance and consciousness.

How can aging teach us about our spiritual nature?

Aging teaches us about our spiritual nature by reminding us of the impermanence of the physical body and prompting us to seek a deeper understanding of our eternal essence.

What insights does the Bhagavad-gita offer about the soul?

The Bhagavad-gita offers insights that the soul is eternal, brilliant, and fundamentally connected to the Creator, suggesting that our true nature transcends physical existence.

Q: How does aging influence our spiritual understanding?

A: Aging influences our spiritual understanding by highlighting the body’s impermanence, encouraging us to reflect on our eternal nature and seek deeper meaning.

Q: What role does death play in understanding the soul?

A: Death serves as a crucial teacher, prompting us to recognize the fleeting nature of life and the importance of our spiritual essence.

Q: How can we cultivate awareness of our soul’s brilliance?

A: We can cultivate awareness of our soul’s brilliance by engaging in practices that promote spiritual growth, such as meditation, self-reflection, and connecting with nature.

Food Yoga Level 2 open for enrollment

Food Yoga Level 2 open for enrollment

The Food Yoga Academy is now offering Food Yogi level 2 certification, however, students will have first completed level 1 to be eligible.

The Food Yogi Level 2 Certification delves deeper into the art and science of food yoga, offering comprehensive information, case studies, and insights that equip students with a robust understanding of the underlying science.

Upon completion, students will receive a PDF certificate suitable for display, along with a digital badge they can showcase on their online resume, website, and social media profiles.

Once students have completed both levels they are then eligible for Food Yoga Master training where they will be invited to spend a week with me in Colombia at Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary and retreat.

I have really enjoyed taking this course. It has been very interesting and has given me a lot of ideas for strategies I wish to incorporate into my daily life. – Gail Hollingsworth

I didn’t expect so much information on energy, physics, sacred geometry… and I absolutely loved it! Eating apples became a very different experience since then. Paul’s interview in the beginning of the course and Mathew Bates’ testimony at the end were incredible, and provided both a great introduction and a great conclusion to the entire course. – Ana

To learn more about the Food Yoga Academy visit www.foodyogaacademy.com

 

The Food Yoga Academy emphasizes practical application, encouraging students to integrate their learning into everyday life. This approach not only enhances personal well-being but also fosters a deeper connection with food and nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What prerequisites are needed for Level 2 certification?

A: Students must complete Level 1 certification to be eligible for Level 2. This ensures they have the foundational knowledge required to succeed in the more advanced topics covered in Level 2.

Q: What can I expect from the Level 2 course?

A: Level 2 offers a deeper exploration of food yoga, including case studies and advanced concepts. Students will gain practical insights that can significantly impact their approach to food and wellness.

Q: What opportunities arise after completing both levels?

A: After completing both levels, students can participate in Food Yoga Master training. This includes an exclusive week-long experience at Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary and retreat in Colombia, enhancing their learning and practice.

Food Yogi Certification Level 1 – Enrollment open

Food Yogi Certification Level 1 – Enrollment open

The Food Yoga Academy, the brainchild of International director of Food for Life, Paul Rodney Turner (aka Priyavrata das) has officially launched.

The Academy’s first course is Food Yogi Certification Level 1, where students can learn

the essentials of the food yoga lifestyle, teaching students how to enhance their lives through mindful eating and devotion.

Based on the teachings of his book, FOOD YOGA – Nourishing Body, Mind & Soul, students will learn the art and science of eating with consciousness and compassion to provide a framework to elevate the act of eating from the dry and mundane to a soul-satisfying experience.

In this introduction to Food Yoga, Turner lays out the 10 fundamental truths.

Students will explore the nuanced aspects of food and discover how to attain optimal health through the Food Yogi diet and lifestyle. This includes guidance on what and when to eat, water therapy, detoxification, and understanding the sacred geometry of whole foods.

The courses will also include raw vegan food demonstrations, including smoothies, pates and crackers, cheesecakes, and soups, etc.

Students will be tested at the end of the course to earn their certification.

WHAT IS FOOD YOGA?

[video_player type=”youtube” style=”1″ dimensions=”640×360″ width=”640″ height=”360″ align=”center” margin_top=”0″ margin_bottom=”20″ ipad_color=”black”]aHR0cHM6Ly95b3V0dS5iZS9KNFZ4TkhVeTNlcw==[/video_player]

“This Level 1 course gives the fundamentals of the prasadarian lifestyle,” says Turner. “However, in Level 2 we will dive deep into all the details of preparing food with love in order to nourish the mind and spirit.

His book food yoga was a direct response to the inspiration behind Food for Life, Srila Prabhupada who said that “Everyone should get a chance to take prasadam*.”

“I realized that we had to empower people with the knowledge of prasadam but in order to do that I had to build a framework for understanding. The book, therefore, takes the reader on a journey of first discovering how food and thoughts are energy and I present scientific proof to back these statements,” he explains.

The Food Yoga Certification Level 1 is available now for $97, however, a special limited launch discount is being offered to the first 100 students with the coupon code: 50yoga2018

[button_1 text=”ENROL%20NOW” text_size=”32″ text_color=”#000000″ text_bold=”Y” text_letter_spacing=”0″ subtext_panel=”N” text_shadow_panel=”Y” text_shadow_vertical=”1″ text_shadow_horizontal=”0″ text_shadow_color=”#ffff00″ text_shadow_blur=”0″ styling_width=”40″ styling_height=”30″ styling_border_color=”#000000″ styling_border_size=”1″ styling_border_radius=”6″ styling_border_opacity=”100″ styling_shine=”Y” styling_gradient_start_color=”#ffff00″ styling_gradient_end_color=”#ffa035″ drop_shadow_panel=”Y” drop_shadow_vertical=”1″ drop_shadow_horizontal=”0″ drop_shadow_blur=”1″ drop_shadow_spread=”0″ drop_shadow_color=”#000000″ drop_shadow_opacity=”50″ inset_shadow_panel=”Y” inset_shadow_vertical=”0″ inset_shadow_horizontal=”0″ inset_shadow_blur=”0″ inset_shadow_spread=”1″ inset_shadow_color=”#ffff00″ inset_shadow_opacity=”50″ align=”center” href=”http://www.FoodYogaAcademy.com”/]

To learn more, visit www.FoodYogaAcademy.com

* Prasadam: Pure plant-based food that has been offered to God with devotion.

 

Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive their certification, demonstrating their understanding of the principles of Food Yoga and their ability to apply these teachings in daily life. This certification opens pathways for further study and practice in this enriching lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Food Yogi Certification Level 1?

A: It is an introductory course where students learn the fundamentals of the food yoga lifestyle, focusing on conscious eating and devotion.

Q: How can I enroll in the Food Yogi Certification Level 1?

A: You can enroll through the Food Yoga Academy website, where the course is currently offered for $97, with a special discount available for early registrants.

Q: What topics are covered in the Food Yogi course?

A: The course covers the principles of food yoga, including nutrition, meal timing, water therapy, detoxification, and raw food preparation techniques.

New Book, SOUL POWER Now Available on Amazon

New Book, SOUL POWER Now Available on Amazon

SOUL POWER – Five Noble Truths for a Successful Life available in paperback and ebook

International director of Food for Life Global www.ffl.org, the world’s largest network of plant-based food relief projects, Paul Rodney Turner has released a new book in the self-help genre called SOUL POWER – Five Noble Truths for a Successful Life that draws from his 35-years of experience as a practitioner of the Bhagavad-gita.

This is a follow-up to his earlier book, the 5-star rated FOOD YOGA – Nourishing Body, Mind & Soul in which he became world-famous as the food yogi.

“One evening in New York, while sitting at the table with pen in hand and feeling a little discouraged, I asked myself a simple question: What is special about me? I allowed my pen to flow without thinking too much about the answers, and to my surprise, I came up with five affirmations that coincidently all begin with the letter “P”. Easy to remember, and as you’ll see they touch upon the very core of our existence. Thus was born what I call The Five Noble Truths that now serve to guide me through my life: I am Powerful; I am Protected; I am Perfect; I am Prasadam; I am Prosperous,” he explained.

Turner’s hope is that these affirmations will give people the solace, strength, and wisdom they need to succeed in life as well help remind them just how awesome they are as a spirit soul.

In expanding on the meaning of each affirmation, Turner has drawn from the teachings of various esoteric and spiritual traditions, with a special preference to the Vedic scriptures. “Essentially, I was writing this book for myself,” he says. “As I typed each word, I took on the role of an empathetic friend offering encouragement. I want the readers to know that everything contained in this book was written with the utmost sincerity by the hand of an encouraging friend.”

An affirmation is a declaration of something that is true. Turner explains that the affirmations presented in SOUL POWER will resonate with readers as they have with him and that they’ll embrace and apply them within the context of their own spiritual tradition.

“Each one of these affirmations is drawn from the perspective that you and I and all living things on this planet are souls – eternal personified sparks of the Creator, not bound by time and the true essence of what makes us conscious beings” he explains.

To complement the spoken affirmations, Turner has also provided geometric equivalents (yantras) for each affirmation which will aid the reader in their meditation.

ISKCON author, Krishna Dharma praised the new book:

It is said that the greatest of all wisdom is to know yourself. In this well written and fascinating book Paul Rodney Turner introduces us to five life changing truths about who and what we really are. Drawing from different spiritual traditions, especially from the Sanskrit texts of India’s ancient Vedic teachings, he shows how we are something far greater than we could ever imagine. He presents us with five powerful meditations, each accompanied by a mystical yantra that embodies its essential truth and aids in expanding the consciousness. By deeply contemplating these truths about the self, along with the yantras, you will surely become empowered to fulfil your life goals, and experience a profound and lasting peace and inner happiness.

The book is available in digital and print from Amazon.com for $1.99 and $9.95 respectively.

GET YOUR COPY NOW FOR JUST $1.99!

PRINT EDITION $9.95

Pre-register for the Food Yoga Academy and Get a 50% discount

Pre-register for the Food Yoga Academy and Get a 50% discount

[kad_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/J4VxNHUy3es” width=600 ]

For a limited time, I am excited to offer a special 50% discount code for individuals who pre-register for the Food Yoga Academy. This is a fantastic opportunity to join our program at a reduced rate.

Best of all, you won’t need to make any payment right now to secure this offer.

[button_3 text=”get-early-bird-access.png” align=”center” href=”https://foodyogi.org/food-yoga-academy-pre-registration/”/]

To take advantage of this offer, simply share your name and email to express your interest, and you will receive the discount code directly in your inbox.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I pre-register for the Food Yoga Academy?

A: You can pre-register by providing your name and email address. This will allow you to receive the 50% discount code and stay updated on the program.

Q: Is there a cost to pre-register?

A: No, pre-registration is completely free. You only need to express your interest by sharing your name and email.

Q: What is the duration of the discount offer?

A: The 50% discount is available for a limited time only. Make sure to register early to take advantage of this offer.

The Living La Vida Vegan Summit is Live!

The Living La Vida Vegan Summit is Live!

Recently, I was interviewed on the Living La Vida Vegan Summit, and it was a great experience.

During my interview, I shared valuable insights aimed at enhancing your understanding of veganism, making it both accessible and enjoyable.

Stephanie Hutchinson is passionately dedicated to helping individuals who feel dissatisfied with their bodies learn to love how they look and feel when enjoying a diverse array of foods and flavors.

She is directly fighting all the self-shame and self-loathing that women all over the world are facing by creating a FREE INTERVIEW series to help you into your healthiest body yet – Living La Vida Vegan.

Click now to go check it out. I am one of 20 other health experts who were interviewed, and the lineup is rather awesome, including Dr. Joel Fuhrman, Dr. Will Tuttle, Osha Key, Torre Washington, Lorna McCormack, Rachel Black, and Mark Reinfeld, to name just a few!

https://youtu.

Stephanie’s holistic approach prioritizes emotional well-being alongside physical health, emphasizing self-love and body positivity. She inspires participants to embrace their unique journeys, fostering a supportive environment for personal growth.

The summit acts as a vibrant platform for exploration, encouraging individuals to discover how varied plant-based diets can significantly boost both health and happiness.

Throughout the summit, each expert shares personal stories and practical tips that resonate deeply. For instance, Dr. Fuhrman discusses nutrient density while Torre Washington highlights the importance of physical activity in conjunction with a vegan lifestyle. These insights will provide you with actionable strategies to integrate into your daily routine.

Engaging with the summit isn’t just about listening; it’s about transforming your mindset. Take notes during the interviews and reflect on how the ideas shared can apply to your life. Consider creating a vision board with quotes or images that inspire you, making your journey toward a healthier lifestyle visually tangible.

The summit also features interactive Q&A sessions where participants can engage directly with the experts. This allows for personalized advice and the opportunity to clarify any doubts you may have. Engaging actively in these discussions can deepen your understanding and enhance your learning experience.

The summit also offers a range of resources, including downloadable guides and recipes, to support your journey. These materials can help you implement what you’ve learned and make plant-based eating an enjoyable experience.

Attending the summit offers an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, creating a supportive community. You can share experiences, challenges, and successes, making your journey toward a healthier lifestyle even more enriching.

To enhance your experience, consider journaling your thoughts after each interview. Reflecting on the insights shared can help you integrate these ideas into your life more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Living La Vida Vegan Summit?

A: The Living La Vida Vegan Summit is a free interview series featuring health experts discussing the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. It aims to inspire participants to embrace plant-based eating for better health and self-confidence.

Q: Who are the featured experts in the summit?

A: The summit includes prominent figures like Dr. Joel Fuhrman and Torre Washington. Each expert shares valuable insights and personal experiences related to veganism and health.

Q: How can I participate in the summit?

A: You can view the interviews by clicking the provided link. It’s accessible online, allowing you to watch at your convenience and learn from a diverse range of health professionals.

Q: What topics are covered in the summit?

A: The summit covers a wide range of topics related to veganism, including nutrition, mental well-being, and practical lifestyle tips. Each expert presents unique perspectives and experiences to enrich your understanding.

Q: Is there a cost to join the summit?

A: No, the Living La Vida Vegan Summit is completely free to join. Participants can access all the interviews without any fees, making it an accessible resource for anyone interested in veganism.

Q: How long are the interviews in the summit?

A: Each interview typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, providing in-depth discussions on various topics. This format allows for comprehensive insights and personal stories from the experts.

Q: What can I expect from the summit?

A: You can expect a series of engaging interviews with health experts sharing their insights on veganism. Each session provides valuable information that can inspire and guide your plant-based journey.

Q: Are there any interactive elements in the summit?

A: Yes, the summit features interactive Q&A sessions where you can engage with experts directly. This interaction allows for personalized guidance and clarification on any questions you may have.

Q: How can the summit help with my health goals?

A: The summit offers practical tips and personal stories from health experts that can help you adopt a vegan lifestyle. Implementing their advice can lead to improved health and greater self-confidence.

Q: What is the main goal of the summit?

A: The primary goal of the summit is to inspire individuals to adopt a plant-based lifestyle for improved health and self-acceptance. It serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and personal experiences.

Q: Are there any follow-up resources after the summit?

A: Yes, participants will have access to a variety of resources, including guides and recipes, which will assist in implementing the insights gained during the interviews.

Q: Can I ask questions during the interviews?

A: Absolutely! The summit features interactive Q&A sessions, allowing you to ask questions directly to the experts for personalized advice and clarification.

How to Make Coffee Salted Caramel Ice Cream – VEGAN

How to Make Coffee Salted Caramel Ice Cream – VEGAN

Anyone that has been a vegan or raw vegan foodie for a while knows very well about the using frozen bananas as a “go-to” vegan ice cream. However, the reality is this so-called “ice cream” fails on so many levels. First of all, ice cream is meant to be fatty (creamy), so let me show you how to make a really healthy vegan ice cream that looks and tastes like real dairy ice cream.

This recipe can be adjusted quite easily to accommodate all kinds of different flavors. However, this one is epic on so many levels. I made it with organic Colombian coffee too!

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups of Coconut Cream
  • 3 ripe medium size bananas
  • 6 fresh Medjool dates
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup plant-based milk (soy, almond, etc)
  • 1 cup of chopped vegan caramel
  • 1 pinch of salt

Equipment:

  • For optimal results, an ice cream maker is essential, as it helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture. A food processor is also necessary for blending the ingredients until smooth. Finally, a spatula will assist in transferring your delicious mixture into the ice cream maker.
  • Food Processor
  • Spatula

[kad_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/LGr8pc7VKUA” width=600 ]

Despite its popularity, this so-called ‘ice cream’ often misses the mark in texture and flavor. Traditional ice cream is rich and creamy, characteristics that many frozen banana recipes lack. Let me guide you in creating a truly satisfying vegan ice cream that rivals dairy versions in both taste and texture.

This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit various tastes. Consider adding flavors like vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or even a hint of cinnamon to elevate your ice cream experience. Experimenting with different plant-based milks can also enhance the creaminess and flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute frozen bananas with other fruits like mango or strawberries for different flavors. However, keep in mind that the texture may vary.

Is this ice cream gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long does the ice cream take to freeze?

Typically, the ice cream takes about 4-6 hours to freeze completely. For the best texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Q: What is the best way to store this ice cream?

A: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To maintain its creamy texture, ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Q: Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

A: Yes, you can! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes for the first few hours to achieve a smoother texture.

Q: What are some alternative sweeteners for this recipe?

A: You can use agave syrup, coconut sugar, or even honey (if not strictly vegan) as alternatives to maple syrup. Each sweetener will impart its unique flavor profile.

How to Make a Super Easy Vegan Cheesecake

How to Make a Super Easy Vegan Cheesecake

This is a very easy recipe, but the final product is amazing. 

Preparation time: 30 minutes.

Base

  • 330 grams plain vegan cookies
  • 1 cup of chopped dried apricots
  • 1/2 cup of coconut oil

Method:

Process in a processor until the mix is lightly holding together. You want it to still be a little crumbly. Pat it firmly into a springform pan and set in fridge. 

Filling:

  • 2 medium-sized bananas
  • 1 cup of soaked raw cashews
  • 1 cup of coconut cream
  • 1 cup of coconut oil
  • 1 cup of cacao butter melted
  • 1 Tbsp of finely chopped turmeric root
  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon
  • 1/2 cup of agave syrup or maple syrup
  • 2 slices of fresh peach

Method:

Again, using the food processor, place all filling ingredients into a bowl and mix until it is smooth. Pour the filling into the base and set in the fridge.

Decorate with slices of peach and drizzle with some chocolate sauce.

Chocolate sauce:

Mix all together to make the sauce.

  • 2 Tbsp Cacao powder
  • 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup of agave syrup

FUN FACT: Vegan dog food offers many health benefits as well and here are some easy recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What ingredients are needed for the vegan cheesecake?
A: The ingredients include vegan cookies, dried apricots, cashews, and coconut cream, among others.
Q: How long does it take to prepare this cheesecake?
A: Preparation takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert option.
Q: Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
A: Yes, substitutes like maple syrup for agave or different fruits for decoration can be used.
Food Yoga and Jiva Mukti Yoga Retreat in Colombia

Food Yoga and Jiva Mukti Yoga Retreat in Colombia

Go on the retreat of a lifetime. Practice Jivamukti TM Yoga with certified teacher and co-founder of the Buddha B TM Yoga Center Valerie Grange, learn about making compassionate food choices and Food Yoga from Paul Rodney Turner the Food Yogi, and meet all of the amazing animals on Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary in the majestic Andes Mountains of Columbia.

valerieyoga

Paul is a food yogi and Juliana is a healer
Paul is a food yogi and Juliana is a healer

Dates: Arrival/Check-In: Sunday, October 25th, 2015 Departure/Check-Out: Sunday, November 1st, 2015

Price: $995+tax/Person
This one week escape will include:
  • Transportation to and from the Bogota International airport to hotel in Chia.
  • All Accommodations (double occupancy) in Chia, including last night in Bogota before departure.
  • 3 Meals A Day + Snacks (during food workshops & demos).
  • Daily, 2-hour Jivamukti All-level (OPEN) Yoga classes with Valerie Grange.
  • Daily Food Workshops and Food Demos with tastings on ‘How to Become a Food Yogi’ with Paul Rodney Turner.
  • Meeting and Greeting sanctuary founder Juliana Castaneda and sanctuary director Ekala and all of the rescued animals on Juliana’s Animal Sanctuary including dogs, cats, rabbits, Gita the cow, Balaram the bull also known as “gentle giant”, Pola the “freedom-fighting pig” and Perla their new little piglet.
  • Option to Volunteer on the Sanctuary and help the animals.

FoodYoga-Academy200Spaces are limited to only 12 registrations, so Sign-up today!

NOT INCLUDED:
  • Flights Travel Insurance (flight/transportation/luggage/medical)
  • Passport Visas (if required)
  • Pre-Arrival/Departure transportation
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Tips/Gratuities

BOOK NOW




Beyonce commits to a Vegan Diet – fan backlash or media hype

Beyonce commits to a Vegan Diet – fan backlash or media hype

Sexy_Beyonce_Bikini_HQ_Wallpapers_Pack_1-15.jpg_Picture_-_29Last night Good Morning America announced that Monday morning Beyoncé was going to make an announcement, and we were going to LOVE IT

Apparently, most fans assumed it would be news of a new album or tour; maybe a big donation to a charity or some other sizzling news like she is pregnant. But none of these things happened, rather she announced to the world that she had totally committed to the vegan diet and it was the reason for her great new figure, glowing skin and fresh new outlook on life. Beyonce is such a fan of the work of her dietician, Marco Borges and how the new diet has impacted her life, that she is partnering with him to start a vegan meal delivery service.

Beyonce explained that she is “not naturally the thinnest woman. I have curves. I am proud of my curves, and I have struggled since a young age with diets and finding something that actually works; actually keeping the weight off has been difficult for me.”

Borges new book, The 22 Day Revolution is based on what psychologists have believed for years, that “it takes 21 days to make or break a habit, so if you adopted a healthy habit over the course of 21 days, on the 22nd day you’d be onto the new habit and that is the magic to sustainability,” he explained.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWm_44BSRxg[/embedyt]

Apparent Backlash

However, when the news broke some fans were shocked to hear that this was Beyonce’s big news and some complained. But how many really? If you believed the mainstream media you’d think that every fan was up in arms about the announcement but are they?

Considering how powerful are the meat and dairy industry, you’d expect they would not be too happy about one of the world’s most popular people promoting a dairy and meat-free diet. Consider this:

Tyson Foods is the world’s largest poultry and red meat provider. Tyson controls 27% of all meat and poultry sales in the U.S. One out of every four pounds of chicken, beef, and pork consumed in the U.S. is a Tyson product. Smithfield Foods is the world’s largest pork producer. Smithfield is the largest pig farming operation in the U.S. and a major producer abroad. Smithfield controls 26% of the U.S. pork market, raising 14 million pigs at its facilities and killing 27 million of the 60 million that went to slaughter in 2006.

Willmar Poultry Company is the largest turkey producer in the U.S. It produces over 45 million turkey poults (young birds) annually at its two hatcheries in Minnesota. The Willmar hatchery is the largest turkey hatchery in the industry and delivers over 600,000 poults weekly to customers. Cal-Maine Foods is the largest egg producer in the U.S. In fiscal 2009, Cal-Maine sold approximately 778 million dozen shell eggs, representing approximately 18% of domestic shell egg consumption.

Nestle is the world’s leading producer of dairy products. Dean Foods is the leading producer of fluid milk and dairy products in the United States and the second largest dairy company in the world.

Finally, McDonald’s is the largest purchaser of beef and the second largest purchaser of poultry in the U.S.

Each of these companies, either directly or indirectly, through their subsidiaries, spends hundreds of millions of dollars on advertising through the mainstream media. McDonald’s alone spent nearly 1 billion dollars in ads in 2013 or 2.7 million per day! Tyson Foods, on the other hand, spent $614 million dollars in 2014 and Nestle spent around $800 million in 2014.

You can imagine that any threat to this huge investment in advertising dollars is not going to be welcomed or celebrated by this meat and dairy food companies and since this money is a huge source of income for TV, Newspapers, Radio and Internet companies, they have a vested interest in protecting the brand value of their advertisers. In other words, news about Beyonce going vegan is not helpful so any kind of negative reaction to her dietary decision is going to be favored over any positive response.

I would even go so far as to suggest that some of the haters are fake accounts and those that are apparently upset are the minority, but the mainstream media doesn’t want you to think that. As usual, they want the public to focus on the negative and not the positive.

The Game is Changing

Social media has been a boon to niche markets like veganism. In a survey of U.S. adult consumers by Harris Interactive in March 2014, respondents were asked to rate the importance of the factor ‘vegan’ when buying foods and beverages. Some 7 percent of U.S. adults indicated to consider the attribute ‘vegan’ as a very important driver for their food and beverage purchase decisions. However, there is a significant generational difference. About 27 percent of Millennials in the U.S. considered the label vegan on a product as a very or somewhat important factor for their purchasing decision as opposed to 13% for baby boomers.

Considering Beyonce’s massive influence on Instagram (35.9 million), even beating out Kim Kardashian (35.7) it is no surprise that her move to a vegan diet is a threat to the old guard of meat and dairy.

 

Add a brief introduction that summarizes Beyoncé's vegan announcement and its potential impact, which will engage readers right from the start.

Incorporate data or studies that support the health benefits of a vegan diet to provide a more balanced view and encourage readers to consider the lifestyle change.

Include quotes or reactions from fans who support Beyoncé's decision to create a more inclusive perspective, countering the notion that backlash is the only response.

Why did Beyoncé decide to adopt a vegan diet?

Beyoncé adopted a vegan diet to improve her health, achieve a better physique, and partner with her dietician, Marco Borges, to promote sustainable eating habits.

What is the 22 Day Revolution?

The 22 Day Revolution is a program created by Marco Borges that suggests it takes 21 days to form a new habit, promoting the idea that adopting a healthy habit for 21 days can lead to lasting change.

How has the vegan movement been influenced by celebrities?

Celebrities like Beyoncé have significantly influenced the vegan movement by raising awareness and encouraging fans to consider veganism, particularly through social media platforms.