From thehaveringdaily.co.uk
New data shows that the “Veganuary” movement, which challenges people to eat only plant-based food throughout January, reached a record 25.8 million participants worldwide in 2025, a huge increase on previous years.
High Speed Training, a leading provider of online training, says this rapid growth highlights the need for better nutritional education for people moving towards a vegan lifestyle. Despite its rising popularity, many misconceptions remain about how healthy, affordable and practical veganism really is.
To support those taking part in Veganuary and anyone considering a plant-based diet, Dr Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at High Speed Training, has tackled some of the most common “myths versus facts” surrounding veganism.
One of the biggest myths is that vegans cannot get enough protein, calcium or vitamins. Dr Anderson explains that this is not true. There are many plant-based sources of essential nutrients, and with a well-planned diet it is possible to meet all nutritional needs. The only nutrient that usually requires extra attention is vitamin B12, which is mainly found in animal products. However, this can easily be obtained through supplements or fortified foods such as plant milks, breakfast cereals, vegan spreads and nutritional yeast. With the right planning, a vegan diet can provide everything the body needs.
Another common belief is that switching to a vegan diet will automatically cause weight loss or leave people feeling tired and hungry. In reality, this varies from person to person. Some people report having more energy, while others may feel fatigued if their diet is not properly balanced. Like any diet, if it relies heavily on processed foods or high-carbohydrate options, it can lead to low energy levels or even weight gain.
There is also a widespread idea that vegan food is too expensive and restrictive. While some branded meat substitutes can be costly, a diet based on simple foods such as grains, pulses and vegetables is often cheaper than a meat-based diet. As demand for plant-based products continues to grow, most UK supermarkets now offer a wide range of vegan options, making the lifestyle more accessible and varied than ever before.
Another important issue is food safety. Many people assume that vegan products are automatically safe for those with food allergies, but this can be a dangerous misunderstanding. Many plant-based alternatives contain common allergens such as soya, nuts or gluten. Because there is no legal definition of the word “vegan,” people with allergies must always check ingredient lists carefully for hidden allergens or cross-contamination.
Finally, there is often confusion between the terms “vegan” and “plant-based.” A plant-based diet usually refers only to what someone eats, while veganism is a broader lifestyle choice that aims to avoid all forms of animal exploitation, including in clothing, cosmetics and household products.
Dr Anderson concludes that, like any diet, a vegan one can be unhealthy if it is not planned properly. He stresses that anyone considering Veganuary or a long-term vegan lifestyle should take time to ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs and following a balanced, well-thought-out diet.
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