A$AP Rocky's Dietary Evolution: From Pescatarian to Vegan
ASAP Rocky's path to veganism was not an overnight decision but a gradual process that spanned several years. The rapper, whose birth name is Rakim Mayers, progressed through different dietary stages, each influenced by specific health or ethical revelations. Understanding this journey provides important context for his current plant-based commitment.
Early Days: Pescatarianism
Rocky's dietary shift began at least as far back as 2011. In a 2012 interview, he revealed he had become a pescetarian—a diet that includes fish but no other meat. His initial motivation stemmed from a growing awareness of the cruelties within the factory farming industry. Specifically, he cited concerns over the unhealthy and inhumane treatment of chickens, which prompted him to eliminate poultry from his diet. This early move demonstrated his ethical considerations, which would later expand to a full vegan lifestyle.
Transition to Vegetarianism
After his stint as a pescetarian, Rocky eliminated fish from his diet and became a vegetarian. This phase was documented in 2015, with his vegan tour manager playing a supportive role in his dietary transition while on the road. This period also saw him voicing frustrations about holiday meals and family gatherings, where his dietary restrictions made things 'pretty annoying'. Despite these social challenges, his commitment to a meat-free diet continued to strengthen.
Public Declaration of Veganism
The turning point came in 2019 with the release of his single "Babushka Boi." In a direct and clever lyrical admission, Rocky confirmed he had taken the final step by giving up all animal products, including dairy and eggs, to become fully vegan. This was the first definitive statement he had made about his final dietary shift. His progression is a powerful example of how lifestyle changes can evolve over time, driven by education and increasing ethical awareness.
Motivations Behind the Plant-Based Shift
- Ethical Reasons: Rocky's concerns about animal welfare were a primary driver. His statements about the torture animals endure in the food industry show a strong empathy and ethical stance.
- Health Concerns: The rapper also cited health as a factor. He mentioned a desire to maintain a clean body and mind, feeling that processed animal products were unhealthy for him.
- Lifestyle Experimentation: Rocky is known for his experimental nature, not just in fashion but in his personal life. He has also experimented with sobriety, indicating a broader interest in self-improvement and wellness.
The Verdict: Is ASAP Rocky Still Vegan?
As of 2025, there is no public information or credible report to suggest that ASAP Rocky has abandoned his vegan diet. Celebrities often make headlines when they change their diets or revert to old habits, and no such news has emerged regarding Rocky. Since his 2019 announcement, his public image and lifestyle choices have continued to align with a plant-based ethos.
A$AP Rocky's Dietary Timeline
| Year | Dietary Phase | Motivations | Public Commentary |
|---|---|---|---|
| ~2011-2012 | Pescatarian | Ethical concerns about poultry industry treatment. | "I don't eat meat". |
| ~2015 | Vegetarian | Transitioning with a vegan manager's help. | "It's just pretty annoying" at family gatherings. |
| ~2019-Present | Vegan | Ethical, health, and mind-body wellness. | "I ain't duck sauce since I became a vegan". |
The Vegan Hip-Hop Movement and Cultural Impact
ASAP Rocky is not alone in the hip-hop world in his embrace of a plant-based diet. He is part of a larger trend, particularly within the African American community, which has seen a significant rise in veganism and vegetarianism. The movement has been championed by artists like RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan, Jaden Smith, and Styles P, who have all contributed to normalizing and promoting a plant-based lifestyle within the music industry and beyond. This cultural context further solidifies Rocky's decision as part of a larger, sustained movement, rather than a fleeting trend.
For more insight into this cultural shift, you can read about the impact of veganism within the hip-hop community. VegNews has featured other influential artists who have embraced a plant-based life, highlighting the growing trend.
Maintaining a Vegan Diet: A Look at Rocky's Habits
Assuming he maintains his commitment, Rocky's diet likely includes a diverse range of plant-based foods. His meals would consist of:
- Fruits and vegetables: A staple of any healthy plant-based diet, providing essential vitamins and fiber.
- Legumes and beans: Excellent sources of protein and fiber, central to many vegan meals.
- Grains and starches: Rice, quinoa, and potatoes would provide complex carbohydrates for energy.
- Plant-based proteins: Alternatives like tofu, tempeh, and seitan, as well as nuts and seeds.
- Innovative vegan dining: As a high-profile artist, Rocky would have access to top chefs and innovative vegan cuisine in major cities, making a plant-based diet both healthy and gourmet.
Conclusion: Commitment to a Conscious Lifestyle
Based on his 2019 public declaration and the subsequent lack of any evidence suggesting a change, the answer to the question "Is ASAP Rocky still vegan?" is a resounding yes. His decision was the culmination of years of progressive dietary changes, driven by a growing conscience about animal welfare and his personal health. As a prominent figure in the evolving vegan hip-hop movement, his continued commitment serves as a powerful example of conscious living in the public eye. His journey illustrates that adopting a plant-based lifestyle can be a gradual, thoughtful process, and his public stance provides inspiration for many exploring similar paths.
