Inclusivity is Healthy: The rising popularity of Vegan food in Singapore

A noticeable shift is taking place in Singapore's culinary landscape – a surge in the popularity of vegan food. Did you know that Singapore has been named the second most vegan-friendly city in Asia by PETA? Over one in 20 people surveyed in a recent study are either on a vegetarian or vegan diet, with those aged between 35 to 44 most likely (28%) to eat this way. This trend has been fueled by a combination of factors, ranging from health and environmental concerns to increased awareness about animal welfare. In this article, let's dive into the reasons behind the rising prominence of vegan food in Singapore and discover how it is reshaping the local dining scene.

Increased Health Awareness

One of the key drivers behind the growing popularity of vegan food in Singapore is the heightened focus on health and wellness. Vegans are leaning towards plant-based diets as they become more aware of the effects their food choices may have on their health. In Singapore, cardiovascular disease accounted for 29.3% of all deaths in 2019 — that’s almost one out of every three deaths related to heart disease or stroke. Animal products often contain high levels of saturated fat, which raises cholesterol levels — cutting them out could protect your heart.

(Bangkok Jam’s Vegan Classic Stir-Fried Thai Minced Basil with OnlyEg)

Environmental Sustainability

Singapore's compact urban environment has brought the issue of sustainability and environmental impact to the forefront of public consciousness. Vegans are now recognizing the substantial environmental toll that animal agriculture takes on resources like land, water, and energy. For them, choosing vegan food helps to reduce carbon emissions, conserve water, and decrease deforestation associated with the meat and dairy industries. With an increasing awareness of the ecological footprint of food choices, more Singaporeans are turning to veganism as a way to make a positive contribution to the planet.

Ethical Considerations

The rise of veganism in Singapore is also being driven by ethical considerations surrounding animal welfare. With increased access to information through social media and documentaries, more people are becoming aware of the treatment of animals in the food industry. This awareness has sparked a sense of compassion and empathy from vegans, leading many to question the ethics of consuming animal products.

Social Media Influence

Social media platforms have played a significant role in amplifying the vegan movement in Singapore. Influencers, bloggers, and content creators are sharing their personal vegan journeys, documenting their culinary experiences, and showcasing the variety and appeal of plant-based cuisine. This online presence has created a sense of community and support for those interested in adopting a vegan lifestyle, making the transition more accessible and enjoyable.

(Bangkok Jam’s Vegan Papaya Salad)

Culinary Innovation

Singapore is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, influenced by various cultures and traditions. This diversity has paved the way for innovative vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. Local chefs and entrepreneurs are creatively reinventing classic Singaporean foods using plant-based ingredients, proving that vegan options can be just as delicious and satisfying as their non-vegan counterparts. 

Coming Together

While making the switch to a vegan diet may be a polarising topic and may even cause tension when looking for a restaurant to dine in, several restaurants offer a wide range of products for vegans and non-vegans alike. 

(Bangkok Jam’s Vegan Pad Thai)

Looking for a new dining option? Bangkok Jam is a haven for all Thai cuisine lovers, whether you’re vegan, flexitarian, or non-vegan but want to try vegan dishes!

Bangkok Jam’s menus are well-categorized and indicate which items are vegan, vegetarian, and can be allium-free. When creating the menu, the chefs at Bangkok Jam looked at favourite authentic Thai dishes and considered which dishes and how they could be created for vegans. One classic dish is … vegan curry. Bangkok Jam is home to two exquisite vegan curry creations – Vegan Green Curry and Vegan Acacia Red Curry. 

The Vegan Green Curry Chicken with a choice of Plant-Based Shandi Global Chicken or Vegetables is a true masterpiece that celebrates the art of plant-based cuisine while staying true to the authentic essence of Thai flavors. Crafted with precision and passion, it features tender plant-based Shandi Global Chicken pieces that have been marinated to perfection, capturing the essence of the original dish while embracing a cruelty-free approach. These savory morsels mingle harmoniously with an array of farm-fresh Thai brinjal, known for its delicate tanginess, and tender coconut shoots, which provide a delightful crunch and a hint of tropical sweetness. The heart of the dish lies in the rich, aromatic green curry sauce that envelops every ingredient with layers of taste. 

On the other side, elevating the art of plant-based cooking, our Vegan Acacia Red Curry boasts a harmonious blend of traditional Thai ingredients and modern plant-based innovation. The star of the show is the remarkable HAPPIEE!™ plant-based Prawniee – a revolutionary creation that captures the essence of ocean-fresh prawns without compromising on our commitment to cruelty-free dining.

With a texture that mimics the succulence of real prawns and a flavor profile that pays homage to the sea, HAPPIEE!™ Prawniee transforms our Vegan Acacia Red Curry into an unparalleled gastronomic experience. As you savor each bite, you'll revel in the tantalizing flavors of red curry paste, aromatic herbs, and luscious coconut milk, all perfectly balanced to create an unforgettable taste journey.

Another exciting vegan dish that you can try is the Kung Ob Woon Sen – made with Vegan Claypot Vermicelli and plant - based HAPPIEE!™ Prawniee. Served in a claypot, the dish arrives at your table bubbling with aromatic charm, evoking the cozy ambience of rustic Thai cooking. The interplay of flavors – the heat of chili, the fragrance of lemongrass, and the creaminess of coconut milk – dance together in a celebration of culinary artistry and innovation.

Visit Bangkok Jam’s website here.

Follow them on socials: Facebook / Instagram

Outlets: 

GREAT WORLD

1 Kim Seng Promenade #02-127

Singapore 237994

Tel : 6732 4523

MARINA SQUARE

6 Raffles Boulevard #02-105B

Singapore 039594

Tel : 6338 6632

PLAZA SINGAPURA

68 Orchard Road #03-85

Singapore 238839

Tel : 6341 9188

Sources: 

https://www.myheart.org.sg/health/heart-disease-statistics/

https://www.petaasia.com/living/food/top-10-vegan-friendly-cities-asia/