From Organic to 100% Vegan: Ariana Grande's Journey
In November 2013, Ariana Grande used social media to officially announce her transition to a completely vegan lifestyle. While she had always preferred organic foods and minimized her meat consumption, this marked a decisive shift. The singer openly cited her deep affection for animals as a primary driver, famously stating, "I love animals more than I love most people, not kidding". Her dietary switch was further solidified by health motivations, including weight management and a desire for increased energy. Grande's approach emphasizes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beans, aligning with her long-term wellness goals.
The Ethical and Health-Based Motivation
Grande's veganism is rooted in both ethical beliefs and personal health considerations. She has publicly spoken out on animal welfare issues, advocating for animals in captivity and co-founding the Orange Twins Rescue in Los Angeles in 2020. Her convictions were also influenced by the documentary Forks Over Knives, which examines the health benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet. This holistic view explains her long-standing commitment, though it hasn't always been free of public debate.
Public Scrutiny and Defining 'Vegan'
Despite her clear declaration, public incidents have occasionally led some to question the strictness of her veganism. For example, she faced criticism for wearing leather and other animal-derived fashion products. Additionally, her promotion of a Starbucks beverage containing non-vegan ingredients led to a public back-and-forth. While her commitment to a vegan diet remains consistent, some commentators and fans prefer to label her as 'plant-based' to distinguish her from individuals who adhere to a broader, ethical vegan lifestyle encompassing all animal products. This distinction highlights the nuance between diet and overall ethical philosophy.
Dietary Habits and Preferences
When dining out, Grande sticks to simple, known-vegan foods like fruits, veggies, and salads, supplementing her meals at home. Her trainer, Harley Pasternak, has also mentioned that Grande drinks a lot of his signature smoothies, which are full of fruits, nuts, and greens. A vegan YouTuber once attempted to replicate her diet, noting an emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods.
Here are some of Ariana Grande's go-to vegan foods:
- Berries: She has stated that strawberries are her favorite food and she eats them daily.
- Smoothies: Filled with fruits, greens, and plant-based protein.
- Nuts: Almonds and cashews are a favorite for energy.
- Japanese Cuisine: She enjoys foods like daikon, lotus, and adzuki beans.
- Plant-Based Alternatives: For her Italian-American background, she enjoys vegan versions of familiar dishes, like vegan chicken wings.
Comparison: Ariana Grande vs. Other Vegan Celebrities
| Aspect | Ariana Grande | Billie Eilish | Joaquin Phoenix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start of Veganism | 2013 | Born into a vegetarian family, then became vegan | Since age three |
| Primary Motivation | Ethical and health | Ethical, animal rights | Ethical, witnessed fishing incident |
| Key Advocacy | Animal rescue, speaking out against animal cruelty | Frequent animal rights advocacy | PETA activism, Oscars speech highlighting dairy industry |
| Public Incidents | Questions about her wardrobe and product endorsements | None notable regarding diet or ethics | None notable regarding diet or ethics |
| Dietary Focus | Plant-based whole foods, Japanese influence | Varied plant-based meals | Whole foods, avoids processed items |
Challenges with Family
In a lighthearted moment on the YouTube series Hot Ones, Grande shared how her family consistently forgets she is vegan, particularly her grandmother who still offers her meatballs. This anecdote, while humorous, highlights a common social challenge for many who adopt a different dietary path from their family.
Conclusion: A Consistent Plant-Based Choice
To answer the question, "Is Ariana Grande non-vegetarian?", the answer is a definitive no. The pop star has maintained a committed vegan diet for over a decade, driven by her strong ethical stance on animal welfare and personal health benefits. While she has faced some public discussion surrounding non-food items and endorsements, her dedication to a plant-based food regimen has remained firm. Her advocacy, including her animal rescue organization, further underscores the depth of her commitment. Her plant-based journey serves as an influential example for many fans, promoting a more compassionate and health-conscious approach to eating.
Visit PETA's Celebrity Vegan section for more information on plant-based influencers.
