There may be a tussle between government and the plant-based food industry about mock meat names, but that’s not keeping ProVeg South Africa from going bold and organising a plant-based Heritage Day braai. Their aim? To celebrate the country’s heritage and future despite recent upheaval.
ProVeg South Africa and its event partners say they are excited to announce the plant-based Heritage Day braai despite the department of agriculture, land reform and rural development’s recent stance against plant-based meat alternatives being allowed to use food terms such as “nugget”, “burger” and “sausage”.
This has become known as the veggie burger ban and recently hit South Africa, following similar bans in other countries.
“Although this is a matter dividing many South Africans, we believe there is no better way to bring everyone together than with a relaxing day spent braaiing with friends, family and other friendly faces,” says Arleen Nel, communications manager at ProVeg South Africa.
Annually, millions of South Africans celebrate their heritage with one of the nation’s most loved activities: the braai. This will be the plant-based version of the much-loved public holiday and ProVeg is aiming for it to be the biggest one yet.
“The braai is such a central part of South African culture and a space for all South Africans to come together and celebrate our rich heritage,” Donovan Will, ProVeg South Africa’s country director adds.
“For a lot of South Africans, the idea of cutting back on meat might seem very un-South African, but the reality is that meat isn’t our heritage. Our heritage is good food and braais, as well as the environment and animals we must look after. The braai is even an important part of our love for sports, being active and outdoors and maintaining good health. Luckily, we can do all of this while enjoying a braai.”
Get your tickets
This year’s event partners include Fry’s Family Food Co., Oumph!, Meatless Farm, Outcast Foods, Urban Vegan, Veggiewors, OKJA, CultureLab, and B-well.
“When we look at the food on offer at our 100% plant-based braai event, we are certain even the biggest meat eater will enjoy it. Now people can celebrate their heritage while being blown away by a new way to experience a braai,” says Will.
Early bird tickets are R60 and include entrance to the venue and a plate of delicious braai food. There will be entertainment for children and those under 10 get free entrance.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own camping chairs, picnic blankets and umbrellas to enjoy a lazy Saturday in the sun with friends, family, local music, and good food.
Event information:
- Event title: The Plant-Based Heritage Day Braai
- Date: Saturday, 24 September 2022
- Time: 11:00 – 16:00
- Location: Camps Bay High School B-Field, opposite Glen Country Club, Victoria Road, Clifton, Cape Town, 8005
- Ticket price: R60
- Tickets are available here.
ProVeg South Africa is the local branch of ProVeg International. ProVeg is an international food awareness organisation working to transform the global food system by replacing conventional animal-based products with plant-based and cultured alternatives.
ProVeg works with international decision-making bodies, governments, food producers, investors, the media, and the general public to help the world transition to a society and economy that are less dependent on animal agriculture and more sustainable for humans, animals, and the planet.
ProVeg has permanent observer status with the UNFCCC, is accredited for UNEA, and has received the United Nations’ Momentum for Change Award.
ALSO READ: South Africa’s veggie meat safe ‘until November’
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
