Veganism and Latin culture in Brisbane

As veganism is on the rise in Australia, many more vegan takes on popular Latin favourites are becoming increasingly available.

Vegan quesadilla: photo from One Green Planet

As of this year, half a million Australians are reported to be vegan, and 1 in 10 describe themselves as vegetarian.

Okay, so a plant-based diet significantly reduces emissions, as well as water consumption and deforestation for grazing land.

Whilst the increased accessibility of vegan foods is providing more opportunities for those who want to be both animal and planet conscious, there are a number of people, who disagree with changing authentic dishes into westernised vegan versions; removing elements of culture from the food.

Regions with cultural elements of farming, hunting and cooking, express this through food, which ties them to a larger identity, that often feels vanishing in the modern-day.

“There is a lot of shaming, derailing, victim-blaming, and so forth, but at no point in time is there willingness to address one’s own complicity in the very systems that allow for industrial meat and dairy farming,” says Native American, Kima Nieves.

It’s also important to note, whilst being vegan is becoming trendier in the western world, large populations of people across the globe, do not have access to meat and dairy due to the high cost of farming animals and meat production.

For this reason, many foods eaten as staples in Australia are westernised twists, on meals that would usually be lower in meat or dairy if made authentically.

Most Latin restaurants across Brisbane now offer a variety of vegan options, including authentic Latin-run businesses; both bringing Latin culture and heightened sustainability onto Brisbane’s food platform.

Authentic Mexican food: photo by Gran Luchito

Offering Latin food with diversity, expands the reach of Latin culture across Brisbane, but also shines light on important issues surrounding food and culture.

Have you tried Brisbane’s Latin food? Comment below to let us know!