In celebration of National Vegan Month, there's a free vegan food fair. Bristol foodies, vegan or otherwise, are invited to this festival of healthy, eco-friendly food. Discover the benefits of a veganism and try tasty meat-free meals.

Stereotypes
The Vegan Foor Fair Bristol aims to quash cliches about vegans. Organisers say that all too often people think vegans are weedy hippies when in reality they are from all walks of life. They also hope to show that the benefits of veganism stretch beyond personal health with facts they illustrate why it's the kindest diet for the environment.

Free Food
If you're unsure how to go about changing your diet, pop along to the Vegan Food Fair Bristol where you'll find a range of meat-free alternatives including soya milkshakes, vegan sausages, vegan pizzas, dairy-free ice cream and pies. There's also cookery demonstrations, nutritional advice and booklets filled with recipes, shopping advice and local restaurants offering vegan food.

Health Benefits
Organisers claim that the majority of diseases that kill most Western people prematurely can be prevented and reversed by eating a vegan diet. Evidence shows that vegans often have healthier hearts and weigh less than carnivores. There's also a recognised link between breast cancer and dairy consumption. The Vegetarian and Vegan Foundation will be on hand to explain why the vegan diet is healthier and show you how to make the switch.

Eco Friendly
As well as providing oodles of health benefits, it's been shown that veganism is also kind to the environment and the Vegan Food Fair Bristol is organised by Bristol Animal Rights Collective, and sponsored by Animal Aid and The Vegan Society. Evidence from the United Nations show that animal farming significantly contributes to global warming.

Entry to the Vegan Food Fair Bristol is free. It takes place at Broadmead Baptist Church Hall from 12pm - 4pm, 31st October 2009.