It’s so hard to become VEGAN- What’s Really Stopping People from Going Vegan?
Let’s admit it: we humans are full of contradictions. We worship cows, feed stray dogs, and shed tears over stories of wildlife conservation. We are constantly reminded of the water crisis and the effects of climate change. Yet, when it comes to going vegan—a step that’s kind to animals, the planet, and even our health—many of us hesitate.
Why? After 12 years of being vegan and endless conversations with friends, family, and strangers about this lifestyle, I’ve realized it’s rarely about protein or calcium (despite the occasional “but what about paneer?”). The real reasons are rooted in fear. Subtle, unspoken fears that often boil down to the following hurdles.
- Fear of Breaking Old Habits
We are creatures of tradition. Food is more than sustenance; it’s culture, family, and emotion rolled into one. Think about it: how many of our memories revolve around maa ke haath ka khana? The buttery dal makhani, the ghee-soaked parathas, the Sunday mutton curry, or that special biryani during Eid—these aren’t just dishes, they’re rituals.
The idea of giving up these foods feels overwhelming. What would breakfast be without egg omelette, dahi with parathas or chai with milk? How would festivals feel without sweets like gulab jamun or ghee-laden laddoos? These aren’t just foods; they’re comfort, nostalgia, and identity.
But here’s the truth: habits evolve. What feels unfamiliar today can become second nature tomorrow. Vegan alternatives to these cherished dishes are easier to make (and find) than ever. Almond or soy milk in your chai? Still delicious. Plant-based ghee for your parathas? It’s out there. And yes, there are vegan laddoos that taste just as good as the ones you grew up eating.
Think of it this way: how many foods do you enjoy now that you wouldn’t have touched as a child? Taste buds change, habits shift, and traditions adapt. It’s not about giving up; it’s about finding new ways to enjoy the flavors you love.
2. Fear of Losing Social Connections
Food in India and everywhere is everything. It’s how we celebrate festivals, bond with neighbours, and host guests. Refusing a plate of mithai or declining chai with friends feels almost like breaking an unspoken social contract.
This is one of the biggest fears people have about going vegan: “Will I become the odd one out? What will my relatives think if I say no to ghee laden Prasad at a pooja? Will my friends tease me for eating tofu while they have paneer tikka?”
The fear is real, but here’s the thing: being vegan doesn’t mean saying no to socializing or fun. It just means navigating it a bit differently. Bring a delicious vegan dessert to the next family gathering—something like coconut-based barfi or vegan gajjar ka halwa (yes can be made) that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Or suggest a vegan-friendly restaurant for your next get-together.
Most importantly, the people who truly care about you will respect your choices. Yes, there might be some playful teasing at first, but eventually, your family and friends will come to understand—and maybe even enjoy—your new lifestyle.
3. Fear of Missing Favorite Foods
Paneer, curd, lassi, butter, and ghee—these are the big ones when people say they can’t go vegan. The good news? Plant-based alternatives for these are widely available now, even in India. From soy-based paneer to cashew curd (which tastes exactly like dairy curd), there’s a substitute for just about everything. And honestly, with all the spices we use, you might not even notice the difference.
4. Fear of Being Judged
“What if I slip up and accidentally eat something non-vegan? Will other vegans judge me?” This fear of the so-called “vegan police” is common. But here’s the reality: most vegans are just happy you’re trying. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about making better choices whenever you can.
5. Fear of Complicated Cooking
Many people assume vegan cooking is fancy and time-consuming. But let’s be honest: half of Indian cuisine is already vegan or easily veganized. Rajma, chole, poha, upma, dosas, sambhar, pav bhaji (with plant-based butter)—the list goes on. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to make vegan food work; you’re probably already eating vegan meals without realizing it.
6. Breaking Through the Fear
At the end of the day, going vegan isn’t about giving up your identity or culture—it’s about evolving with it. Yes, stepping out of your comfort zone is hard, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You get to align your actions with your values, discover new flavors, and make a tangible difference for the animals, the planet, and your own health.
Start small. Replace your dairy chai with almond milk. Try a vegan version of your favorite curry. Experiment with recipes. And remember: it’s not about perfection. Every step you take, no matter how small, counts. Who knows? You might find that vegan life is not only doable but also delicious—and yes, you can still enjoy gulab jamuns, parathas, and biryanis, just in a kinder, more sustainable way.
