Middle Eastern Mezze Traditions: A Hidden Plant-Based Abundance
The Middle East is often celebrated for its rich culinary heritage, but what is less acknowledged is how deeply plant-based traditions run through its kitchens. These traditions extend across North Africa as well, where grains, legumes, and vegetables form the foundation of daily meals. Central to this is the culture of mezze, the generous spread of small dishes meant for sharing. Meals are not centered on a single protein but on abundance through variety, with hummus, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, falafel, couscous, and zaalouk forming the heart of the table. This communal approach, paired with fertile climates and a reliance on olive oil, fresh produce, and aromatic herbs, has created a cuisine where compassion and flavor coexist effortlessly.
Law, Ethics, and Resilience: An Interview with Ghina Nahfawi on the Fight for Animal Rights
Ghina Nahfawi is one of Lebanon’s most outspoken voices for animal rights. Grounding her work in law, ethics, and public awareness, she has built a movement that challenges weak legislation, confronts cultural traditions, and exposes violations through media. Her activism insists on accountability and demands a more compassionate future for animals in Lebanon and across the region. Her work confronts weak legislation, misinterpretations of religion, and entrenched practices that perpetuate cruelty, while also offering practical solutions like TNVR and eco‑friendly tourism. In this interview with the Middle East Vegan Society, Ghina shares the experiences that shaped her path, the challenges she continues to face, and her vision for a Lebanon where animals are protected and valued as part of the community.
Interview with Joe Jackie, Founder of Woof N’ Wags Sanctuary
We recently had the chance to sit down with Joe Jackie, the founder of Woof N’ Wags in Jezzine, Lebanon. Alongside his wife Ghada, the shelter has become a sanctuary for more than 300 dogs and a growing family of rescued farmed animals, including pigs, goats, donkeys, and a calf named Hanjool.
In our conversation, Joe spoke about his personal journey, the realities of running a multi‑species sanctuary, and his vision for both the shelter’s growth and the building of a compassionate community in Lebanon.
Baklava, Blossom, and Boldness: Beirut Chocolate Breaks the Mold with Plant-Based Flair and Global Curiosity
Handcrafted in London and inspired by Beirut, this chocolate bar blends Lebanese nostalgia with plant-based innovation. Created by Phil Khoury—former Harrod’s pastry chef and author of A New Way to Bake—Beirut Chocolate sold out within hours of its first release, with early batches shipped internationally to test packaging and logistics.
Lebanon's Migratory Birds: A Vital Flight Under Threat
Situated at the crossroads of three continents, Lebanon plays a critical role in the African-Eurasian Flyway, providing essential stopovers for millions of migratory birds. Despite its importance, the country has become perilous for these birds due to hunting and habitat destruction. Urgent action is needed to safeguard Lebanon's role in preserving global biodiversity and protecting these vital species.
Lebanon’s Vegan Treasures: Must-Visit Plant-Based Restaurants
Lebanon is home to a diverse range of vegan restaurants that offer delicious and healthy plant-based cuisine. From cozy cafés to vibrant social hubs, these establishments not only provide mouthwatering dishes but also promote mindful eating and sustainable living. Whether you're a dedicated vegan or simply curious about plant-based dining, these top vegan restaurants in Lebanon are sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.
Spreading Compassion: Lebanese Vegans and Middle East Vegan Society’s Christmas Market with Complimentary Vegan Treats
This holiday season embraced compassion for animals, the environment, and humanity as the Lebanese Vegans NGO teamed up with the Middle East Vegan Society to host the much-anticipated annual Vegan Christmas Market. The event took place on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, on the terrace of the Lebanese Vegans Social Hub in Sin el Fil, Beirut, Lebanon, drawing a lively crowd of plant-based enthusiasts and curious visitors.
Escaping Abuse and War in Lebanon: Sara the Lion Cub Relocated to Safety
After spending two months in a small Beirut apartment with an animal rights group, the 4-and-a-half-month-old lion cub finally reached a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa. Her journey involved traveling by yacht and planes, escaping both war and her abusive owner.
Millions of migratory birds slaughtered in Lebanon for likes and fun!
Lebanon is facing a severe bird-poaching crisis. Millions of migratory birds are killed each year as they pass through the country on their journey between Africa and Europe. The mountainous terrain, combined with weak law enforcement due to ongoing crises, has created a perfect environment for poachers. These individuals often justify their actions as a tradition passed down from their ancestors. However, conservationists argue that this practice is both wrong and unsustainable.
Why Vegan Conference 2024: A Night of Education, Inspiration, and Delicious Food at Hayek Hospital, Lebanon
On June 4th, 2024, the Hayek Hospital in Sin El Fil, Lebanon, played host to a unique event: the “Why Vegan Conference - 2024 Edition" organized by the Lebanese Vegans NGO. The conference drew over 350 attendees wanting to learn more about the vegan lifestyle and its impact on health, the environment, and animals. Let’s dive into the highlights of this inspiring conference.
Interview With Patrick Aramouni, A Vegan Athlete, Coach, Self-Taught Cook, and Blogger
Utilizing his diverse skills as a self-taught cook, blogger, YouTuber, recipe maker, and advisor, Patrick shares his transformative journey across social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok, offering insights into his daily meals, delicious plant-based recipes, and effective workout routines.
Foodborne Disease Trends in Lebanon: ground raw meat and cooked chicken were the leading suspects
A study conducted in Lebanon revealed that ground raw meat and cooked chicken were the leading suspects in foodborne disease cases. From 2009 to 2013, a total of 1747 cases, including four fatalities, were reported to the Ministry of Public Health.
Three Lebanese dips were voted the world’s best, and they’re all vegan!
Lebanon's rich culinary heritage has been acknowledged once again as the online travel guide TasteAtlas unveils its highly-anticipated list of the "Best Dips in the World," and they are all vegan.