2026/01/06 by Linda Smillie, Michelle Minehan, Catherine R. Knight‐Agarwal · 1 voice
Environmental Science · Agricultural and Biological Sciences · #Agriculture Sustainability and Environmental Impact #Urban Agriculture and Sustainability #Food Waste Reduction and Sustainability
paper · doi:10.1111/jhn.70196
openalex publication_date 2026/01/06 · openalex created_date 2026/01/08 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/27
AIM: The aim of this study was to explore the motivations, experiences and strategies adopted by adult vegans, in order to identify ways to support others to adopt plant-based eating dietary patterns. METHODS: An interpretive approach was used to conduct semi-structured, qualitative interviews with 18 Australian vegan adults (11 female and 7 male). Participants were eligible if they had followed a vegan diet for 12 months or more. Interviews were interpreted using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Motivations for adopting a vegan diet are driven by a reinforcing interplay between ethical, environmental, health and personal concerns. Transitioning to a vegan diet presents practical challenges. However, these are perceived as being relatively easy to overcome. Long-term adherence to a vegan diet is challenged by interpersonal relationships, cultural and social pressures. CONCLUSIONS: Nutrition interventions supporting individuals to adopt plant-based dietary patterns are more likely to be successful if compelling benefits are articulated and reinforced. Quality information about overcoming practical challenges is required. However, long-term adherence is more likely if psychosocial resilience is supported.