Vegetarian Month

Vegetarian Month timeline

1972

"The Vegetarian Epicure"

Writer Anna Thomas published a classic cookbook highlighting the beauty of meatless dishes.

1947

Political clout

The American Vegetarian Party formed in hopes of finding a candidate to participate in the U.S. presidential elections.

1850

The vegetarian movement

William Alcott (a relative of "Little Women" author Louisa May Alcott) helped start the first vegetarian organization in the country — the American Vegetarian Society.

1847

"Vegetarianism" in vogue

Instead of referring to someone who abstained from meat as a "Pythagorean," the term "vegetarian" came into existence.

3rd Century BC

"On Abstinence from Animal Food"

Greek philosopher Porphyry wrote a book boasting about the benefits of a meatless diet

Vegetarian Month FAQs

When is Vegetarian Month?

Vegetarian Month 2026 runs throughout October, from Thursday, October 1, to Saturday, October 31. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse and delicious world of plant-based cuisine.

How many people are vegetarian in the U.S.?

Estimates suggest that approximately 5-7% of the U.S. adult population identifies as vegetarian, with millions more actively reducing their meat consumption. This number continues to grow as plant-based options become more accessible.

What is the economic impact of plant-based foods?

The plant-based food market in the U.S. is a rapidly expanding sector, valued at over $8 billion in recent years. This growth is driven by increasing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable food options across various categories.

What is the difference between vegetarian and vegan?

A vegetarian diet primarily excludes meat, poultry, and fish, but may include dairy, eggs, and honey. A vegan diet, however, is stricter, abstaining from all animal products and by-products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and often honey.

How to Observe Vegetarian Month

Participate in "Meatless Monday"

Many dietary experts urge us to cut back on animal products. On Mondays during the month of October, make it a point to whip up a vegetarian dish for dinner.

Take a veggie-based cooking class

Cooking classes are a fun way to learn some new skills in the kitchen. To celebrate Vegetarian Month, why not learn how to make dishes without using any meat?

Plant an indoor garden

For some of us, the month of October can get pretty chilly, so consider taking your green thumb indoors. An indoor garden helps ensure that you'll have some fresh herbs and veggies to use throughout the winter.

5 Reasons To Go Vegetarian

Sex appeal

Research indicates that abstaining from red meat may enhance the sex appeal of male pheromones.

Smart people eat their vegetables

You may have studied his famous Pythagorean theorem, but did you know that Greek philosopher Pythagoras was a devout vegetarian?

Protein punch

Plants provide 10 times more protein per acre than meat.

Ben Franklin went meatless

Benjamin Franklin was a vegetarian, although he went back to eating meat later in life.

Vegetarianism is popular in India

India has the highest percentage of vegetarians when compared to all other countries (roughly 30 percent of the population).

Why Vegetarian Month is Important

A vegetarian diet may lead to a longer life

Not all vegetarians live a healthy lifestyle, but studies have indicated that a vegetarian diet may help prevent some serious diseases.

Meat is expensive

While eating a vegetarian diet won't necessarily slash the cost of your grocery bill, there's a chance you'll see some savings if you go a couple of weeks without purchasing expensive animal products.