Gopher Spot - Going Green

Vegetarian & Vegan

A vegetarian is a person who does not eat meat, poultry, or fish. A vegan is a person who does not eat any animal products.

Picture of Megan Barr

When did you become vegetarian?: I started back in 8th grade, so I've been vegetarian for going on seven years now.
Why did you start?: I was never a big meat eater, and I started looking into the food industry through random articles and just decided to try it out. It made me feel good about my food choices, so I just never stopped.
What types of foods do you eat?: I eat a lot of veggie burgers, hummus and pitas, pasta, grilled veggie sandwiches, and bean burritos!.
What is your favorite recipe?: I'm not really a creative cook but I really like making penne with pesto, lemon juice, olive oil, fresh veggies, and parmesan.
What is your favorite product at the Gopher Spot?: It's a tie between ABC chocolate cookies and the Amy's bean and cheese burritos.
What would you say to someone considering becoming vegetarian?: It's great! Make it a process and stay creative when it comes to food choices. Going out can be difficult at some places, but there are plenty of places that are set up for vegetarians and vegans alike!

Picture of Sam Molstad

How long have you been vegan?: I started being vegan before graduating High School, so about two years, including a one-year break.
Why did you start?: Initially, I was disappointed by the state of factory farming and the conditions of the animals. This grew into a frustration with the entire food industry. Now, it is bigger. I am able to circumvent the entire livestock industry and help mitigate some of the impact that farming has on the Earth.
What types of foods do you eat?: I eat a lot of grains and fruits. I also enjoy hearty salads with nuts, dried fruits, avocado, and vinegar dressings, legumes, potatoes, yams, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Also, Oreos. Seriously, Oreos.
What is your favorite recipe?: I like to make a dish with quinoa, cubed, breaded, and sautéed tofu, chopped onions, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes, and a sauce made from a mix of peanut butter and soy sauce.
What is your favorite product at the Gopher Spot?: Organic Apples
What would you say to someone considering becoming vegan?: Give it a shot! It's not as hard as it seems. You'll be surprised at what part of your diet isn't vegan, but you'll be even more surprised at what portion is.