Roskachestvo has refuted popular myths about veganism and vegetarianism

In recent years, veganism and vegetarianism have been gaining popularity and are simultaneously overgrown with many stereotypes and misconceptions. On May 26, Olesya Makhova, head of the Roskachestvo Plant—Based Product Development Competence Center, told Izvestia which popular opinions about vegetarianism and veganism are actually myths.

"One of the most common myths is that a vegan diet cannot provide the body with enough protein. In fact, herbal products contain all the necessary amino acids, they just need to be combined correctly," she said.

According to her, legumes, tofu, quinoa, nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein, which are not inferior to their animal counterparts in nutritional value.

Many also believe that plant—based nutrition is expensive. However, according to Makhova, the basic products of a vegan diet — cereals, vegetables, fruits, legumes — are among the most affordable on the market. Only specialized substitute products can be expensive, but they cannot be called an obligatory part of a balanced diet.

"The misconception that vegan food is tasteless deserves special attention. Modern technologies and culinary techniques make it possible to create dishes from herbal ingredients that taste and texture as good as traditional ones," the expert added.

The specialist emphasized that to maintain health, such a diet requires an understanding of the principles of a balanced diet. It is important to compensate for possible nutrient deficiencies through a variety of products and, if necessary, supplements. The key to success, the expert explained, is relying on evidence-based medicine rather than myths surrounding the topic of veganism.

Earlier, on May 4, Mariana Jutova, a dietitian at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia that severe dietary restrictions can lead to serious disorders in the body, rather than the desired slimness.