Vegan in the Workplace: How to Refuse Cake Without Spoiling the Party

With camaraderie among colleagues often centered on food, an office environment can be like a constant buffet. When it’s not the birthday of the overly cordial woman that sits next to the copier, someone else is shopping around boxes of Thin Mints for a fundraiser at their kid’s school. And it’s not even ten o’clock yet and everyone’s already planning for lunch!

Inevitably a vegan will have to field questions—lots of questions—about their diet and lifestyle habits.

Colleagues may go on the defensive when they notice you’ve skipped out on morning donuts two days in a row now. Reactions will range from the very inquisitive and curious, to even sometimes mildly combative. It can be easy to coexist in an environment of omnivores so long as respect and understanding prevail on everyone’s end.

Preach At Work About Veganism A Little Bit, But Only if Asked

Animal rights advocacy can be a double-edged sword at work. It may be important to spread awareness about the inhumane practices on factory farms or the moral belief that all creatures have a right to live but when at work, it is important to remain professional and respectful of everyone’s beliefs. If someone does however ask for more information or have a greater genuine interest in veganism, tell them your door is always open (if in a cubicle, that door is figurative), and always be available to answer questions.

Field Questions About Vegan Living with Patience

Some people have never met a vegan before. Prior to making the switch from vegetarianism to veganism, everyone believes that giving up cheese is unimaginable, so be patient about having to answer the same questions over and over again. Even though one person can’t represent the unique opinions and behaviors of vegans across the world, as a colleague’s first impression, set a positive tone.

Bring in a Vegan Baked Good For Colleagues

Vegans do not only eat bowls of sunflower seeds. Bringing in vegan cupcakes or other treats is a great way to show people that vegan baked goods are as delicious as those conventionally prepared. Maybe there's a local vegan bakery or a vegan section at a favorite natural foods supermarket, or perhaps you have a great recipe for vegan red velvet cupcakes, volunteer to bring something in. People will either be curious to try it or hesitant, expecting delectable vegan pastries to taste like a baked can of V8. After the brave and open-minded colleagues give vegan treats a try, the apprehensive ones will curiously follow close behind.

Just Grab a Cup of Coffee—It’s About Eating Together with Colleagues

Participate in the office camaraderie by eating at the same time. Don’t go into hiding just because there isn’t anything vegan in that Krispy Kreme box. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, and add some signature color commentary to the morning water cooler banter.

Becoming a vegan is a decision that takes a lot of conviction, especially for new vegans who have strong opinions and understandably feel compelled to share them. Veganism is about love and compassion. Share the details behind these disciplined dietary and lifestyle habits with coworkers with respect.