Egg recall no problem for vegetarians
Posted on Sep 06, 2010 in Opinion
Are you feeling uncomfortable about eating omelets? Are you sure that eggs in your shelf are free from Salmonella?
Have your eggs have been recalled?
If you are still in dilemma, then it’s time when you should start thinking about Vegetarianism.
Meat products have always been under scrutiny for poisoning. Even though authorities and companies are trying their level best to keep eggs, chicken, pork, and beef away from infection, every now and then a virus or bacteria strain spreads out and the people pay its price by their health and in some cases even lives.
Should you have to think a hundred times before buying or eating your food?
Half a billion eggs have been recalled and the number is increasing day by day. California has confirmed cases of Salmonella infection; the authorities are claiming to stop further egg recall but the people are still not convinced.
The state of Alabama has had no reported case until now, but the public health departments are on a high alert.
According to a Wikipedia post on Salmonella, about 142,000 Americans are infected by this bacterium each year because of egg consumption. The fact also states that about 30 people die each year because of this infection.
Not too long ago bird flu had a chaotic effect all over the world. Many lost their lives and millions of chickens had to be killed in order to stop the pandemic. Bird flu had a big impact on chicken consumption and it nearly stopped at some places.
What should we expect now?
There are always safe to eat, healthy and nutritious vegetables. Some people have a misconception that vegetables are not as tasty as meat but there are thousands of vegetarian dishes that taste better than BBQ.
It’s also not correct to assume that it’s tough being a vegetarian in the United States. Millions of people around the country enjoy vegetarian food in their daily diet, which has all the necessary amount of proteins, minerals and nutrients.
Vegetarianism is more about discipline and control on appetite. One should not be mislead by these misconceptions and should be aware of the facts related to his health.
There are many websites, agencies and organizations that promote vegetarianism and speaking against animal cruelty. Moreover, a lot of research has been done – and is still going on – that shows the benefits of being a vegetarian.
It is scientifically proven that vegetarians tend to live longer than non-vegetarian population. Vegetarians have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and a low heart disease rate which adds to a healthy living.
Vegetarianism is also welcomed in almost all faiths and cultures around the world. India has the highest population of vegetarians in the world and many Christians take a strict vegetarian diet during the fast.
There is a discussion going on empowering the Food and Drug Administration to give more control on the food supply. The supporters of the bill are hoping that the ongoing crisis will have the positive impact towards the passing of the resolution.
It’s not a sure thing that the food safety will be approved or not but we should not wait or depend on the government for our health decisions. It lies in our own hands that we eat what’s good for us.
After all, it’s our choice what we eat and we should not be doubtful about it.
Email: sidharth@uab.edu
