Lisa O
Going vegan is a deeply personal decision often rooted in ethical, environmental, or health considerations. Despite its growing popularity, vegans frequently find themselves fielding the same questions, comments, and criticisms—many of which reflect common misconceptions. Here are 15 comments vegans are tired of hearing and why they’re so frustrating.
“Where do you get your protein?”
This question comes up so often that it’s practically a running joke among vegans. The assumption is that only meat and animal products provide adequate protein, but vegans know better. Protein-rich foods like lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, nuts, and seeds are staples in vegan diets. In fact, many plants offer all the essential amino acids.
“Don’t you miss cheese?”
Cheese might be a sticking point for people considering veganism, but for most vegans, cravings diminish over time. Many vegans also turn to a growing variety of plant-based cheese alternatives made from cashews, almonds, and even potatoes, which replicate the taste and texture of dairy. Beyond the alternatives, many vegans find their ethical or health motivations outweigh the fleeting desire for cheese.
“Plants feel pain too, you know.”
This comment might seem clever, but it’s based on a misunderstanding of biology. While plants respond to stimuli, they lack central nervous systems, brains, or the capacity to experience pain as animals do. Plus, vegan diets often require fewer plants overall because raising livestock consumes enormous quantities of crops for feed.
“But humans are meant to eat meat!”
The “evolution” argument often gets thrown around as if it’s the ultimate mic drop. Yes, humans evolved as omnivores, but modern technology and agriculture now allow us to thrive on plant-based diets without harming animals. Veganism is about making ethical, sustainable choices—not following outdated survival strategies from thousands of years ago.
“What do you even eat?”
This question assumes that vegan diets are bland and restrictive, but the reality couldn’t be more different. Vegans enjoy a wide variety of foods, from vibrant curries and hearty pastas to innovative meat alternatives and decadent desserts. In fact, vegan cooking often encourages creativity, leading to dishes that even non-vegans love.
“But bacon!”
For some reason, bacon always seems to come up in conversations about veganism. While bacon may be a beloved food for many, it’s not the irreplaceable staple people make it out to be. Many vegans learn to love plant-based alternatives, such as tempeh or seitan bacon, and focus on the bigger picture of their ethical choices rather than one particular food.
“What about B12?”
B12 is an essential nutrient, but the assumption that vegans are automatically deficient is misleading. While it’s true that B12 is primarily found in animal products, fortified foods, and supplements are widely available. Interestingly, even livestock are often supplemented with B12, meaning meat eaters indirectly rely on the same sources as vegans.
“You must spend so much time cooking.”
The idea that veganism requires hours in the kitchen is outdated. Like any diet, vegan meals can be as simple or elaborate as you choose. Quick options like smoothies, salads, and one-pot dishes are easy to prepare, while many convenience foods—like frozen veggie burgers or ready-made meals—make it even easier to stick to a plant-based lifestyle.
Aren’t you tired all the time without meat?”
This question reflects the misconception that energy comes solely from animal-based foods. Vegans get energy from carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plant-based proteins. In fact, many vegans report feeling more energized and lighter on a diet rich in whole, plant-based foods.
“What if you were stranded on a desert island?”
This hypothetical scenario always pops up as a challenge to vegan ethics. But realistically, how many of us are actuallystranded on desert islands? Veganism isn’t about extreme, life-or-death situations—it’s about making mindful choices in everyday life. The desert island question is a distraction, not a meaningful critique.
“Isn’t vegan food expensive?”
While specialty vegan products can be pricey, most staples like rice, beans, lentils, oats, and vegetables are some of the cheapest foods you can buy. A vegan diet doesn’t have to include gourmet alternatives or trendy superfoods to be healthy and affordable. Like any diet, costs depend on individual choices and shopping habits.
“I could never give up meat.”
This isn’t necessarily offensive, but it can feel dismissive when said to a vegan who has made that very choice. Many vegans once thought the same thing but found their motivations—whether ethical, environmental, or health-related—strong enough to make the switch. It’s about priorities, not willpower.
“Aren’t vegans weak or unhealthy?”
Far from it! Many athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts thrive on plant-based diets. Vegans can achieve optimal health with balanced meals, and research shows that vegan diets often lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure,and other chronic illnesses. The stereotype of the “frail vegan” is outdated and inaccurate.
“But it’s natural to eat meat.”
While eating meat was historically a necessity, modern society has moved far beyond basic survival. Factory farming, environmental damage, and ethical concerns have made the “natural” argument less relevant in today’s world. Veganism isn’t about denying nature—it’s about adapting to a world where we have the privilege to make more compassionate choices.
“You’re just doing it for attention.”
This is probably the most dismissive comment a vegan can hear. Most vegans adopt the lifestyle out of deeply held beliefs, not to impress or annoy others. The decision often comes after research and self-reflection, and reducing it to “seeking attention” undermines the thought and care that went into their choice.
