From Meat Minimal to 100% Vegan
Ariana Grande's journey to veganism was a gradual, yet firm, process. She grew up eating organically and always kept meat consumption to a minimum. In 2013, this mindful approach evolved into a full-fledged commitment, which she announced proudly on her now-inactive X (formerly Twitter) account, stating it was a "joyous day". This decision was motivated by a deep love for animals, with Grande famously quipping, "I love animals more than I love most people".
The Health and Vocal Benefits of a Dairy-Free Diet
For a singer whose voice is her primary instrument, health is paramount. For Grande, eliminating dairy is a critical part of maintaining her vocal health. Dairy products are known to increase mucus production, which can negatively impact vocal clarity and performance. By adhering to a plant-based diet, she avoids these potential issues, helping to keep her voice clear and strong. Her personal trainer, Harley Pasternak, has also spoken about her balanced diet, confirming her adherence to a healthy eating plan.
The Macrobiotic Influence on Ariana's Plate
Ariana Grande's diet is not just about what she avoids, but what she embraces. Her former trainer described her diet as being influenced by a macrobiotic style, with an emphasis on simple, whole foods. This approach focuses on balance and nutrient-dense foods, providing sustained energy for her demanding career. Her meals often feature fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
Favorite Plant-Based Foods
To fuel her busy life, Grande enjoys a variety of vegan foods, many of which she has mentioned publicly:
- Berries, particularly strawberries, which she reportedly eats daily.
- Smoothies packed with fruits, leafy greens, and plant-based protein.
- Nuts like almonds and cashews for healthy fats and energy.
- Beans, including adzuki and edamame, often incorporated into Japanese-inspired dishes.
- Japanese cuisine, which she has loved for a long time.
A Comparison of Italian and Vegan Ingredients
As an Italian-American, Grande grew up with a certain cuisine, but has since adapted her favorite dishes. Here is a comparison of traditional Italian ingredients versus the plant-based alternatives she might use:
| Traditional Italian Ingredient | Vegan Alternative |
|---|---|
| Cow's Milk Cheese (Mozzarella, Parmesan) | Dairy-free cheese alternatives (cashew-based, almond-based), nutritional yeast |
| Dairy Milk (for sauces, drinks) | Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or other plant-based milks |
| Meatballs (Beef, Pork) | Plant-based meatballs (made from beans, mushrooms, or vegan crumbles) |
| Dairy-based Ice Cream | Vegan ice cream (coconut milk, oat milk, cashew milk base) |
| Eggs (for pasta, desserts) | Flax eggs, aquafaba, or egg substitutes |
Public Perception and Staying Plant-Based
While Grande is celebrated by many for her commitment to veganism, she has also faced criticism, particularly for a Starbucks promotion in 2019. The drink contained dairy and egg whites, though Grande recommended a soy alternative to fans. She has also openly spoken about the challenges of being vegan with a traditional Italian family, jokingly mentioning that her family often 'forgets'. Despite these hurdles, Grande remains steadfast in her dietary choices.
Conclusion: A Long-Standing Commitment
Ariana Grande’s decision to follow a dairy-free vegan diet is a well-documented and long-standing commitment that dates back to 2013. Her motivation stems from a deep love for animals and a proactive approach to maintaining her health, particularly her vocal instrument. While she navigates the public eye and social situations with her veganism, her core dedication to a plant-based, whole-food diet remains unwavering, a testament to a lifestyle she believes in deeply.
For more information on celebrity vegan lifestyles, VegNews has covered Ariana's diet in detail.
