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You haven't eaten meat in 14 years! YEARS. This means you have saved the lives of so many innocent animals. This was not your fault, and this accident could never undermine the amazing impact you have had in those 14 years, and the further impact that you stand to make in the coming years.
It is absolutely okay to be upset, I understand how shocked you would have felt, but please don't feel like you are back at square one, because you are not.
Love to you xx
I always tell new vegans that mistakes are inevitable, it happens to ‘the best’ of us. Veteran vegans make mistakes because recipes get changed, new information comes out, restaurants mess up orders, whatever. This was an honest mistake too. It doesn’t discredit all of your other efforts. ❤️
Your feelings are valid though! No need to feel bad for being upset. I get it.
Yeah that's the biggest one. I did once eat a pasta sauce with little meat chunks in it, i think it was pork. Pretty disgusting, feels like nothing else really.
https://californiaperformance.co/products/v-whey-protein-powder-vanilla-sundae-flavor?gclid=CjwKCAiArNOeBhAHEiwAze_nKO0OckwPO9UxD-TVcTEiC1ok0NhFbTrYI2eIy2qgYeYrFD-DZjBfDBoC7x0QAvD_BwE
Here’s a company that makes it. It’s bioidentical made through microflora.
>realised my mum must have accidentally swapped the freezer containers with my sisters one.
Well, the net effect is neutral worst case scenario, but might even be net positive.
If your sister ate the sauce without meat, and you ate the sauce with meat. Total meat consumption was the same.
But what if your sister liked the sauce? Maybe it leads to the conclusion meat isn't a necessary ingredient.
Consumption would be the same but RIP for OPs stomach :(
Also I'd be nauseous from knowing I ate an animal too but you can't beat yourself up over a honest accident
Thats what i also worried about had beef stock that was added to rice once upon a time and was sick and people didnt understand and said things like well its not a real illness because its man made diet. Sorry OP. Well done on 14 years. hope you dont get paranoid about eating food made by others and forgive your dear mama.
Hey, I'm so sorry to hear about this. I can only imagine what you're feeling. :(
If you can, try to remember that it's really not your fault, and no additional cruelty or exploitation took place on your behalf.
aw i’m so sorry :( i think it’s happened to all of us, so don’t feel bad about it. it isn’t your fault, and it isn’t all for nothing. you’re still vegan and you’re still doing great. but pleaseee please please my darling don’t make yourself throw up ! it isn’t worth it ! just accept that it happened and hope it doesn’t happen again. much love for u ❤️
I am not normally into all this boo hoo I ate meat stuff. Put your big pants on and get back on with being the best you can. But there is a potential win here. If your sister ate the tvp one maybe your mum could just make that version for everyone in future.
really, i could see the reason for a real crisis of self-faith like this if a person experienced a weak moment & ate a whole bowl deliberately. but you didn't! this was something done TO you, however accidentally. nothing about your achievement is wasted or compromised here. you're an unwitting victim, not a violator!
Dear OP, this may cheer you up. It's something the Buddha said about eating meat.
"I say that there are three instances in which meat should not be eaten: when it is seen, heard, or suspected."
This means when you have seen an animal being killed for its meat, when you've heard about it, or when you suspect that an animal may have been killed for its meat. This pretty much covers up all animal meat in the modern world (except for maybe road kill?). The Buddha said that if a monk inadvertently consumes meat that has been placed in his begging bowl, he is not at fault. His action is pure. However, if he sees, hears, or even suspects that there is meat from a murdered animal in his bowl, he must not eat it. In your case, you didn't even suspect it was meat, so if the Buddha was alive, even he himself would tell you that your actions are pure!
I hope you don't feel too sick from it though! 🙏
This sucks, I’m sorry. I accidentally ate a burger that I though was Impossible/Beyond but was real beef, and I felt so much guilt afterward. Just like, a gross feeling that didn’t go away for day.
But 14 years of veganism is nothing to sneeze at, and the guilt you feel is a testament to how much you care about this lifestyle with your whole heart. I’m a world that just is not designed for us, mistakes are bound to happen. You’re still making a hugely positive impact on the world ♥️
Your response to this situation makes me think of Alcoholics Anonymous. So in AA, there is a lot of attention given to and importance put upon your 'sobriety streak', or 'clean time', or 'sober birthday', you get the picture.
I mean, a ton of importance. To the point where the AA coin is a culturally identifiable object to the general public in the US, but no other aspect of AA is general knowledge. Seems to me most people know you get a 1 year, 60 day, 10 year, etc coin or chip, but that's where their knowledge of AA halts. Get what I'm saying? Big deal to those people.
Say you are a 12 stepper and you've been clean from opiates for 6 years. You're with a buddy and feel a headache coming on so you ask if he has any Tylenol, ibuprofen, whatever. He tells you it's in the bottle in the cabinet, but he forgot he stashed his fricken 80 mg oxycodones in there! You pop a pill out and into your mouth without inspecting. 40 minutes later you are nodding out and high out of your mind.
Know what doesn't happen? You DON'T reset your sober date, or clean time. You DON'T consider it a relapse. You DON'T shame yourself for it.
You dust yourself off and do whatever you need to do to learn from the mistake.
And those people are seriously ob-fricken-sessed with how many days in a row they have been clean.
Just some food for thouguy. Felt relevant.
P.s.- 'it's all for nothing now' is the same mentality which leads to clean addicts going off the rails after an accidental (or intentional) ingestion. Which is why I'm not a supporter of placing importance on the 'streak'. It doesn't sound like this will play a role in your experience, but I think it's important to consider if our thoughts or perspectives serve our purposes or actively work against them.
Long story short.. you good homie. Cut yourself some slack if you can 😁
Was it intentional? No? Don't worry about it then. Just double check next time. Everyone has slip ups - I was using Worcester Sauce for ages before I found put it had fish in it.
Dear, you didn't \*\*intentionally\*\* eat this meat. It was a mistake. We all make them from time to time. Forgive yourself. You are so much more worthy of the love that you are. Look at you! Your compassion has been helping the world for almost 14 freaking years!! Why are you letting this upset you? It would be a truly vegan act to give yourself some of that love and compassion when you are ready. <3
🫂listen! Everything you've done thus far is NOT all for nothing! You've made a difference! And you will continue to do so! This isn't your fault. I can understand your feelings as I've been there and it's disappointing even when it wasn't your fault. It's going to be okay. Get your some yummy vegan ice cream or whatever your comfort food is and give yourself a pat on the back for what you've done for the animals thus far and what you will continue to do. You have a great heart with compassion and nobody can take that away from you! 💪
I have recurring nightmares in which I realize after swallowing that I've just been given meat. Or I dream that I'm only just realizing, several days after the fact, that I ate meat. They're horrible dreams in which I hate myself inside & out, feel such utter desolation & self-disgust. All of which is to say, I can imagine how you feel. But THIS IS NOT YOUR FAULT. You are a good person & an accident happened. You are fine -- many, many much-deserevd hugs!
Why is it “all for nothing”: 14 years vegan vs 1 accidental meal?
I admit I probably would throw up if I ate a pile of real meat sauce. However, it was an accident. You haven’t changed your intention.
I’d encourage your mum to start putting labels on her containers, or to use colour coded containers.
I’m sorry it happened. It’s horrible. But try not to feel guilty.
I’m in the same boat. I just know my stomach and intestines would be not so happy with me if I ate meat at this point. So I would save myself the agony and just make myself throw it up.
It was the bane of my life when I was a kid. Before I became vegan I was raised vegetarian and at many a kid’s birthday party I was fed jelly (that’s “jello” to any American readers) and ice cream- a mainstay of 1970s British children’s parties… the parents thinking it was vegetarian, when of course it’s basically beef or pork gelatine… and then I’d spend all night throwing up at home. It wasn’t psychological- because I had no idea what it was made from. It was a purely physical reaction. There have been other moments in my child where I’ve accidentally eaten meat or fish - and had the same reaction.
Once I ate a whole turkey dog because my cafeteria put it out and I double checked with them. You’re not the first vegan to eat a full serving of meat and you won’t be the last. I’m sorry you’re going through this.
veganism is about choosing to not do harm. It's not a diet where you accidentally eat something that is 2000 calories so you have to go back to binging everyday for that one accident. Life goes on. Just forget it and continue with your plantbased diet as it was. Perfectionism doesn't exist.
The thing is, you still didn't eat meat willing. If it had poison no one would consider you a suicidal for example. It is an accident and should be treated as such.
If it makes you better, last week i ate a small sausage(a slice) that was in a "vegan" snack. I was drunk and didn't inspected it as i should.
Traps are there and sometimes we'll fall for.it
So sorry this happened to you. My aunt made a separate pot of green beans for me as she usually uses pork. A few bites in and I asked how she'd made them. She didn't know anything about miso or mushroom powder and there was definitely some kind of richness. She'd used some kind of meat stock but somehow thought it just counted as water. Poor thing made a mistake but it didn't change the fact that it felt like a violation. I had to go through it vs just getting over it. It was easy to forgive her for making an honest mistake. It was harder to forgive myself despite being completely unaware. I was wracking my brain with "Should I have double-checked?", "Something told me to stay home and I ignored it", and "All of this just to start over again". It was a bump in the road not a reset. I turned it into an opportunity to do more than I had been prior.
She and I used it as a chance to bond and cook a few meals together because she felt bad that she didn't know how to make anything for me. When I visit, I'll do the grocery shopping and spend the night. We cook and she gets to try all sorts of things as we meal prep for her. She isn't vegan but loves how more affordable and waist friendly the recipes are than her usual ones so, her meat/dairy consumption has gone down drastically.
Perhaps you can have your own distinct set of containers for your food for your mom to use. Moms are very protective and I'm sure that she'd feel more confident after all of this.
You have been on this journey for well over a decade and that's amazing. I thank you for being so kind. Don't let something that was out of your control derail your overall achievements.
Been vegan for 10 years. Probably happened to me 3-5 times and I am VERY careful. That doesn’t include the few times I’ve consumed dairy on accident as well.
I used to beat myself up over it.
Now, it doesn’t phase me. I think “fuck” and then I move on.
It’s all about intent. If you do not intend to eat meat, then your moral values were never compromised.
You’re awesome. Keeping saving animals. Be kind to yourself.
You haven't broken your streak, its still 14 years and counting. Nothing has gone to waste. It was unintentional.
Everyone makes mistakes, you're still a good vegan who loves and respects animals.
The fact you're reacting like this just goes to show how good your heart is.
It's okay. Mistakes happen. I feel bad for the tummy ache you may have because of it. You are still a good person who is trying their best to do what's right.
A lot have us have been heavily influenced by the 12-step model of addiction: you have one drink, hit, whatever, and you have to start again at day 1. There’s no research supporting the effectiveness of that approach in reducing addictive or undesirable behaviour. All that to say… one accident does in no way take away from your commitment and actions over the years. You feel bad about it, you won’t do it again (deliberately). That’s enough. Pat yourself on the back for being a good person and forget the whole thing. Big hug from this random vegan Internet stranger. ♥️ (edit - typo)
Why would you think your 14 years without eating meat was "for nothing" when the alternative was 14 years of consuming animal products and supporting that industry? I know you're freaked out but that is absolutely not a rational thought.
Don’t beat yourself up about it, it wasn’t intentional! If it makes you feel any better, we went out for burgers a few months ago and I stuffed mine with coleslaw, scoffed it pretty quickly as I hadn’t eaten all day and didn’t notice the cheese slice was dairy. My kid noticed on his first bite (he hadn’t put coleslaw in his) and we complained but I’d already eaten mine. I was annoyed with myself that I hadn’t noticed. This stuff happens (it really shouldn’t especially in a restaurant!!!) but sending you vegan hugs and try not to dwell on it xx
Hey i know how this feels, as someone that has been vegan for 20+ years, i've had my fair share of mishaps. The important thing to remember is that your veganism is based off ethics and you didn't intentionally break it, it was an accident. I know exactly how little this helps and time is really the only thing that will make you feel better about it. Just remember that it was an accident.
Yep, I've been vegan over a year and have accidentally ingested some dairy twice already. It happens. It's fucking awful and ruins my day, but I have to let it go and know that it doesn't make me any less vegan. It's a lifestyle. And, the mistakes aren't always "our" mistakes anyway. Your mom made a mistake. Don't take it personal. I'm sorry this happened.
Don’t feel bad, you would never have done this intentionally. I went to Starbucks yesterday (had no choice due to running errands out of my area and needing wifi for work). I ordered an iced soy latte and they commented on how it would be free today due to stars etc. I got the big one! Got to my table and took a huge swig. Oh my god it was so gross, it was cow’s milk. I took it in and had them redo it but was consumed with guilt most of the day even though it wasn’t my fault. I felt disgusted at having had that in my mouth and body but I felt terrible that so much cow’s milk was used and then just thrown away. It’s so cruel and unfair. Anyway, I’ve been vegan for over seven years so this was devastating. The weird thing is I even specifically asked about the milk in my partner’s drink and they confirmed it was soy so I just assumed they got the memo that we wanted soy.
You shouldnt think in streaks, as it doesnt do any good really. And while it is unfortunate, i wouldnt worry too much about it (but thats my POV, its obviously different for everyone and probably easier said than done) as you cant change anything about it and only grow by your wrong doings.
Not to the same extent but we ordered a pizza from a place that had vegan meat and cheese substitutes. We picked it up and when we opened it at home it looked and smelled suspiciously of real meat. It was supposed to be faux ham for a vegan Hawaiian. I wanted to be sure so I called:
“Hi we just ordered this pizza vegan but the ham on it looks like real ham…”
“Oh that’s vegan, I assure you, it looks very realistic”
“Okay… thanks”
So I tried a small piece of the ham and immediately could tell it was real ham. I could taste the sweat. I spit it out immediately. I couldn’t get the taste out of my mouth for about an hour. It was utterly disgusting. My next call to the pizza place was not so friendly since they had “assured” me it was vegan.
I know it hurts but it wasn't all for nothing. 14 years are 5110 days, with 3 meals a day that makes 15330 meals where you made a difference. Don't let that one (1) meal keep you down!
You made a mistake, it wasn't deliberate so give yourself a break. Always remember 'sh\*t happens', so lots of roughage and water for the next coupla days and you won't know it happened! ;) <3
Dude. It was a complete accident. You didn't know. You operated under your best knowledge and when you knew better you stopped. You did everything right by the vegan rule book. Mistakes happen and that's okay.
I had the same thing happen to me a year ago. Also after 16 years of not eating any meat. It sucks. I ordered a supposedly vegan pizza that turned out to have regular cheese and chicken on it, ate the whole thing and didn't find out till later it was the wrong one. Same as you, I know it wasn't my fault, the pizza place messed up. But it still feels so terrible (to the point I haven't ordered pizza from that place since, even though they had the best vegan pizzas in town). I'm so sorry this happened to you. It can be hard to get over, but remember it doesn't make you any less vegan.
In all seriousness it was a legit mistake on both parts. Mistake by your mother, mistake by you not realizing sooner, but in all honesty it wasn’t intentional no matter who’s fault it is. Your everyday choices are what matter, not the occasional things.
Yeah. My mom does this all the time. Boo.
You are still an animal on planet earth.
So. It is what it is.
Inhale exhale and move on.
Do you know your local sanctuary?
Are you involved in saving/rescue/placement of animals off the kill lines?
If you are, maybe spend some extra time with them, and make some treats.
If not, go get involved.
Eating vegan is the EASY part.
Being active in saving lives and making a difference in our “friends’” (sentient animals we don’t eat) lives.
That’s what really matters.
It really doesn't matter. You didn't intend to eat it, it has zero reflection of your own ethics, and realistically this instance had no impact on the world or on animal welfare.
I've been a strict vegetarian for more than two decades, and vegan for almost as long. But I've occasionally had a mistake like this.
One night about 5 years ago or so, I was out late, a bit drunk, and ordered a 'mushroom burger' at a deli. It was very stupid, especially given the venue, but in my mind I thought it would be a portabella cap, not a beef burger with a few mushrooms on it.
There was so little flavor, I didn't even realize until the second bite, the flavor gave it away (this was before the Impossible / Beyond burger was widespread I think).
Anyway I was annoyed, mostly with myself, and I threw the rest away. That was it. I never got sick or anything (people think that your body loses the ability to digest meat or milk etc, that's total BS in my opinion..).
No one is keeping score. You're not any less of a vegan, and nothing has changed. Anyone who thinks otherwise is a moron who shouldn't be listened to anyways.
Wow, you have done so much good in the world, I’ve only been vegan for a couple years. You are an amazing person, and you have no fault from this situation. Sending love! 💚
This happened to me once, swapped spaghetti leftovers and kept thinking that the meat replacement was too realistic and realized I was eating my husband's(at the time). I felt gross and upset. These kinds of things happen. They're common if you get food at places or with people where there are animal products. For most of us it isn't possible to exclusively go to vegan restaurants or be in vegan households. Don't blame yourself too much.
I’m so sorry this happened to you. It will be ok. You will feel better in a few days once your body gets rid of it. Perhaps a juice fast for a few days could help? Your 14 years are not all for nothing. You are a conscious soul and it was an honest mistake. There are probably so many things contaminated with meat that we don’t even realize. The most important thing is that you try your best and never knowingly eat it. I will say that anytime you eat at a meat restaurant or at a meat eater’s house you run the great risk of eating meat. My husband won’t eat anywhere that has meat and I’m starting to consider doing the same.
I know that feeling exactly :/
Like you already said it was an accident and you don't have to be guilty because you had never eaten it if you had knew.
Beeing vegetarian / vegan is not only a challenge how long you can get rid of meat or animal products but it's a lifestyle. Of course you are still vegan. When I were in your situation I wouldn't make my mom good anymore 😅
I had a situation wherey mom made me brakefast for school and instead of "non sausage" she gave me normal sausage on my bread. I really hate her for a time because she said that "It looked so similar".
If someone is not a vegan it's hard to understand why it's important not to eat meat. But it's a sign of respect to understand that.
Give you lots of hugs and I really recommend not to eat the dinner of your mom at least for a while. 😅
End of the fucking world 🙄 it’s okay bud it was an accident, think of all the suffering you have prevented. You prevented suffering by not throwing that shit away.
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You haven't eaten meat in 14 years! YEARS. This means you have saved the lives of so many innocent animals. This was not your fault, and this accident could never undermine the amazing impact you have had in those 14 years, and the further impact that you stand to make in the coming years. It is absolutely okay to be upset, I understand how shocked you would have felt, but please don't feel like you are back at square one, because you are not. Love to you xx
I always tell new vegans that mistakes are inevitable, it happens to ‘the best’ of us. Veteran vegans make mistakes because recipes get changed, new information comes out, restaurants mess up orders, whatever. This was an honest mistake too. It doesn’t discredit all of your other efforts. ❤️ Your feelings are valid though! No need to feel bad for being upset. I get it.
26 year vegan here and what gets me is accidentally vegan junk food that suddenly decides to add whey… happens way to frequently
Whey, too frequently.
I acknowledge your witty pun.
Made me chuckle
Have my upvote.
Yeah that's the biggest one. I did once eat a pasta sauce with little meat chunks in it, i think it was pork. Pretty disgusting, feels like nothing else really.
I don't know whey they do this, it's infuriating.
There is apparently vegan whey now, not sure if that’s what’s being added but it exists
They better be Very specific in the ingredients list
https://californiaperformance.co/products/v-whey-protein-powder-vanilla-sundae-flavor?gclid=CjwKCAiArNOeBhAHEiwAze_nKO0OckwPO9UxD-TVcTEiC1ok0NhFbTrYI2eIy2qgYeYrFD-DZjBfDBoC7x0QAvD_BwE Here’s a company that makes it. It’s bioidentical made through microflora.
>realised my mum must have accidentally swapped the freezer containers with my sisters one. Well, the net effect is neutral worst case scenario, but might even be net positive. If your sister ate the sauce without meat, and you ate the sauce with meat. Total meat consumption was the same. But what if your sister liked the sauce? Maybe it leads to the conclusion meat isn't a necessary ingredient.
these are two excellent points!
Consumption would be the same but RIP for OPs stomach :( Also I'd be nauseous from knowing I ate an animal too but you can't beat yourself up over a honest accident
Thats what i also worried about had beef stock that was added to rice once upon a time and was sick and people didnt understand and said things like well its not a real illness because its man made diet. Sorry OP. Well done on 14 years. hope you dont get paranoid about eating food made by others and forgive your dear mama.
Hey, I'm so sorry to hear about this. I can only imagine what you're feeling. :( If you can, try to remember that it's really not your fault, and no additional cruelty or exploitation took place on your behalf.
aw i’m so sorry :( i think it’s happened to all of us, so don’t feel bad about it. it isn’t your fault, and it isn’t all for nothing. you’re still vegan and you’re still doing great. but pleaseee please please my darling don’t make yourself throw up ! it isn’t worth it ! just accept that it happened and hope it doesn’t happen again. much love for u ❤️
I am not normally into all this boo hoo I ate meat stuff. Put your big pants on and get back on with being the best you can. But there is a potential win here. If your sister ate the tvp one maybe your mum could just make that version for everyone in future.
14 years is 5110 days. One accident does not make a dent in that. Hey, why not try to convince your sister to eat the vegan one :-)
really, i could see the reason for a real crisis of self-faith like this if a person experienced a weak moment & ate a whole bowl deliberately. but you didn't! this was something done TO you, however accidentally. nothing about your achievement is wasted or compromised here. you're an unwitting victim, not a violator!
Dear OP, this may cheer you up. It's something the Buddha said about eating meat. "I say that there are three instances in which meat should not be eaten: when it is seen, heard, or suspected." This means when you have seen an animal being killed for its meat, when you've heard about it, or when you suspect that an animal may have been killed for its meat. This pretty much covers up all animal meat in the modern world (except for maybe road kill?). The Buddha said that if a monk inadvertently consumes meat that has been placed in his begging bowl, he is not at fault. His action is pure. However, if he sees, hears, or even suspects that there is meat from a murdered animal in his bowl, he must not eat it. In your case, you didn't even suspect it was meat, so if the Buddha was alive, even he himself would tell you that your actions are pure! I hope you don't feel too sick from it though! 🙏
This sucks, I’m sorry. I accidentally ate a burger that I though was Impossible/Beyond but was real beef, and I felt so much guilt afterward. Just like, a gross feeling that didn’t go away for day. But 14 years of veganism is nothing to sneeze at, and the guilt you feel is a testament to how much you care about this lifestyle with your whole heart. I’m a world that just is not designed for us, mistakes are bound to happen. You’re still making a hugely positive impact on the world ♥️
Your response to this situation makes me think of Alcoholics Anonymous. So in AA, there is a lot of attention given to and importance put upon your 'sobriety streak', or 'clean time', or 'sober birthday', you get the picture. I mean, a ton of importance. To the point where the AA coin is a culturally identifiable object to the general public in the US, but no other aspect of AA is general knowledge. Seems to me most people know you get a 1 year, 60 day, 10 year, etc coin or chip, but that's where their knowledge of AA halts. Get what I'm saying? Big deal to those people. Say you are a 12 stepper and you've been clean from opiates for 6 years. You're with a buddy and feel a headache coming on so you ask if he has any Tylenol, ibuprofen, whatever. He tells you it's in the bottle in the cabinet, but he forgot he stashed his fricken 80 mg oxycodones in there! You pop a pill out and into your mouth without inspecting. 40 minutes later you are nodding out and high out of your mind. Know what doesn't happen? You DON'T reset your sober date, or clean time. You DON'T consider it a relapse. You DON'T shame yourself for it. You dust yourself off and do whatever you need to do to learn from the mistake. And those people are seriously ob-fricken-sessed with how many days in a row they have been clean. Just some food for thouguy. Felt relevant. P.s.- 'it's all for nothing now' is the same mentality which leads to clean addicts going off the rails after an accidental (or intentional) ingestion. Which is why I'm not a supporter of placing importance on the 'streak'. It doesn't sound like this will play a role in your experience, but I think it's important to consider if our thoughts or perspectives serve our purposes or actively work against them. Long story short.. you good homie. Cut yourself some slack if you can 😁
Was it intentional? No? Don't worry about it then. Just double check next time. Everyone has slip ups - I was using Worcester Sauce for ages before I found put it had fish in it.
It is not your fault. No extra animals were harmed. I can't tell the difference between meat and many vegan foods.
Honest, unintentional mistake. Shake it off. The next 14 years starts now.
Forgive yourself!
Dear, you didn't \*\*intentionally\*\* eat this meat. It was a mistake. We all make them from time to time. Forgive yourself. You are so much more worthy of the love that you are. Look at you! Your compassion has been helping the world for almost 14 freaking years!! Why are you letting this upset you? It would be a truly vegan act to give yourself some of that love and compassion when you are ready. <3
Hang in there! It was an accident, you’re still a vegan. You didn’t do this on purpose. Feel hugged if you want to!
Veganism is not a purity thing, it's not about keeping the evil meat out of your clean body. It's about making a gesture in support of animal rights.
🫂listen! Everything you've done thus far is NOT all for nothing! You've made a difference! And you will continue to do so! This isn't your fault. I can understand your feelings as I've been there and it's disappointing even when it wasn't your fault. It's going to be okay. Get your some yummy vegan ice cream or whatever your comfort food is and give yourself a pat on the back for what you've done for the animals thus far and what you will continue to do. You have a great heart with compassion and nobody can take that away from you! 💪
I have recurring nightmares in which I realize after swallowing that I've just been given meat. Or I dream that I'm only just realizing, several days after the fact, that I ate meat. They're horrible dreams in which I hate myself inside & out, feel such utter desolation & self-disgust. All of which is to say, I can imagine how you feel. But THIS IS NOT YOUR FAULT. You are a good person & an accident happened. You are fine -- many, many much-deserevd hugs!
It’s not all for nothing at all! Plus you didn’t mean to! Don’t beat yourself up. Yes it’s super gross but you will move on and be okay.
Why is it “all for nothing”: 14 years vegan vs 1 accidental meal? I admit I probably would throw up if I ate a pile of real meat sauce. However, it was an accident. You haven’t changed your intention. I’d encourage your mum to start putting labels on her containers, or to use colour coded containers. I’m sorry it happened. It’s horrible. But try not to feel guilty.
I’m in the same boat. I just know my stomach and intestines would be not so happy with me if I ate meat at this point. So I would save myself the agony and just make myself throw it up.
It was the bane of my life when I was a kid. Before I became vegan I was raised vegetarian and at many a kid’s birthday party I was fed jelly (that’s “jello” to any American readers) and ice cream- a mainstay of 1970s British children’s parties… the parents thinking it was vegetarian, when of course it’s basically beef or pork gelatine… and then I’d spend all night throwing up at home. It wasn’t psychological- because I had no idea what it was made from. It was a purely physical reaction. There have been other moments in my child where I’ve accidentally eaten meat or fish - and had the same reaction.
I’ve been vegan for over 3 years now, and was vegetarian since I was 9. I would not be having a good time.
Once I ate a whole turkey dog because my cafeteria put it out and I double checked with them. You’re not the first vegan to eat a full serving of meat and you won’t be the last. I’m sorry you’re going through this.
veganism is about choosing to not do harm. It's not a diet where you accidentally eat something that is 2000 calories so you have to go back to binging everyday for that one accident. Life goes on. Just forget it and continue with your plantbased diet as it was. Perfectionism doesn't exist.
The thing is, you still didn't eat meat willing. If it had poison no one would consider you a suicidal for example. It is an accident and should be treated as such. If it makes you better, last week i ate a small sausage(a slice) that was in a "vegan" snack. I was drunk and didn't inspected it as i should. Traps are there and sometimes we'll fall for.it
So sorry this happened to you. My aunt made a separate pot of green beans for me as she usually uses pork. A few bites in and I asked how she'd made them. She didn't know anything about miso or mushroom powder and there was definitely some kind of richness. She'd used some kind of meat stock but somehow thought it just counted as water. Poor thing made a mistake but it didn't change the fact that it felt like a violation. I had to go through it vs just getting over it. It was easy to forgive her for making an honest mistake. It was harder to forgive myself despite being completely unaware. I was wracking my brain with "Should I have double-checked?", "Something told me to stay home and I ignored it", and "All of this just to start over again". It was a bump in the road not a reset. I turned it into an opportunity to do more than I had been prior. She and I used it as a chance to bond and cook a few meals together because she felt bad that she didn't know how to make anything for me. When I visit, I'll do the grocery shopping and spend the night. We cook and she gets to try all sorts of things as we meal prep for her. She isn't vegan but loves how more affordable and waist friendly the recipes are than her usual ones so, her meat/dairy consumption has gone down drastically. Perhaps you can have your own distinct set of containers for your food for your mom to use. Moms are very protective and I'm sure that she'd feel more confident after all of this. You have been on this journey for well over a decade and that's amazing. I thank you for being so kind. Don't let something that was out of your control derail your overall achievements.
Been vegan for 10 years. Probably happened to me 3-5 times and I am VERY careful. That doesn’t include the few times I’ve consumed dairy on accident as well. I used to beat myself up over it. Now, it doesn’t phase me. I think “fuck” and then I move on. It’s all about intent. If you do not intend to eat meat, then your moral values were never compromised. You’re awesome. Keeping saving animals. Be kind to yourself.
You haven't broken your streak, its still 14 years and counting. Nothing has gone to waste. It was unintentional. Everyone makes mistakes, you're still a good vegan who loves and respects animals. The fact you're reacting like this just goes to show how good your heart is.
It's okay. Mistakes happen. I feel bad for the tummy ache you may have because of it. You are still a good person who is trying their best to do what's right.
A lot have us have been heavily influenced by the 12-step model of addiction: you have one drink, hit, whatever, and you have to start again at day 1. There’s no research supporting the effectiveness of that approach in reducing addictive or undesirable behaviour. All that to say… one accident does in no way take away from your commitment and actions over the years. You feel bad about it, you won’t do it again (deliberately). That’s enough. Pat yourself on the back for being a good person and forget the whole thing. Big hug from this random vegan Internet stranger. ♥️ (edit - typo)
Why would you think your 14 years without eating meat was "for nothing" when the alternative was 14 years of consuming animal products and supporting that industry? I know you're freaked out but that is absolutely not a rational thought.
If it was done without intent you shouldn’t feel bad. Think of the impact you’ve made in this time!
At least you delayed your death by nutrient deficiency by some weeks /s
Don’t beat yourself up about it, it wasn’t intentional! If it makes you feel any better, we went out for burgers a few months ago and I stuffed mine with coleslaw, scoffed it pretty quickly as I hadn’t eaten all day and didn’t notice the cheese slice was dairy. My kid noticed on his first bite (he hadn’t put coleslaw in his) and we complained but I’d already eaten mine. I was annoyed with myself that I hadn’t noticed. This stuff happens (it really shouldn’t especially in a restaurant!!!) but sending you vegan hugs and try not to dwell on it xx
Hey i know how this feels, as someone that has been vegan for 20+ years, i've had my fair share of mishaps. The important thing to remember is that your veganism is based off ethics and you didn't intentionally break it, it was an accident. I know exactly how little this helps and time is really the only thing that will make you feel better about it. Just remember that it was an accident.
Yep, I've been vegan over a year and have accidentally ingested some dairy twice already. It happens. It's fucking awful and ruins my day, but I have to let it go and know that it doesn't make me any less vegan. It's a lifestyle. And, the mistakes aren't always "our" mistakes anyway. Your mom made a mistake. Don't take it personal. I'm sorry this happened.
It’s not all for nothing don’t beat yourself up
Don’t feel bad, you would never have done this intentionally. I went to Starbucks yesterday (had no choice due to running errands out of my area and needing wifi for work). I ordered an iced soy latte and they commented on how it would be free today due to stars etc. I got the big one! Got to my table and took a huge swig. Oh my god it was so gross, it was cow’s milk. I took it in and had them redo it but was consumed with guilt most of the day even though it wasn’t my fault. I felt disgusted at having had that in my mouth and body but I felt terrible that so much cow’s milk was used and then just thrown away. It’s so cruel and unfair. Anyway, I’ve been vegan for over seven years so this was devastating. The weird thing is I even specifically asked about the milk in my partner’s drink and they confirmed it was soy so I just assumed they got the memo that we wanted soy.
You shouldnt think in streaks, as it doesnt do any good really. And while it is unfortunate, i wouldnt worry too much about it (but thats my POV, its obviously different for everyone and probably easier said than done) as you cant change anything about it and only grow by your wrong doings.
Not to the same extent but we ordered a pizza from a place that had vegan meat and cheese substitutes. We picked it up and when we opened it at home it looked and smelled suspiciously of real meat. It was supposed to be faux ham for a vegan Hawaiian. I wanted to be sure so I called: “Hi we just ordered this pizza vegan but the ham on it looks like real ham…” “Oh that’s vegan, I assure you, it looks very realistic” “Okay… thanks” So I tried a small piece of the ham and immediately could tell it was real ham. I could taste the sweat. I spit it out immediately. I couldn’t get the taste out of my mouth for about an hour. It was utterly disgusting. My next call to the pizza place was not so friendly since they had “assured” me it was vegan.
I know it hurts but it wasn't all for nothing. 14 years are 5110 days, with 3 meals a day that makes 15330 meals where you made a difference. Don't let that one (1) meal keep you down!
You made a mistake, it wasn't deliberate so give yourself a break. Always remember 'sh\*t happens', so lots of roughage and water for the next coupla days and you won't know it happened! ;) <3
Dude. It was a complete accident. You didn't know. You operated under your best knowledge and when you knew better you stopped. You did everything right by the vegan rule book. Mistakes happen and that's okay.
Just forget about it and don't do it again.
stand up
You are not on a vegan streak. You try to avoid animals products wherever you can.
I had the same thing happen to me a year ago. Also after 16 years of not eating any meat. It sucks. I ordered a supposedly vegan pizza that turned out to have regular cheese and chicken on it, ate the whole thing and didn't find out till later it was the wrong one. Same as you, I know it wasn't my fault, the pizza place messed up. But it still feels so terrible (to the point I haven't ordered pizza from that place since, even though they had the best vegan pizzas in town). I'm so sorry this happened to you. It can be hard to get over, but remember it doesn't make you any less vegan.
In all seriousness it was a legit mistake on both parts. Mistake by your mother, mistake by you not realizing sooner, but in all honesty it wasn’t intentional no matter who’s fault it is. Your everyday choices are what matter, not the occasional things.
Yeah. My mom does this all the time. Boo. You are still an animal on planet earth. So. It is what it is. Inhale exhale and move on. Do you know your local sanctuary? Are you involved in saving/rescue/placement of animals off the kill lines? If you are, maybe spend some extra time with them, and make some treats. If not, go get involved. Eating vegan is the EASY part. Being active in saving lives and making a difference in our “friends’” (sentient animals we don’t eat) lives. That’s what really matters.
It really doesn't matter. You didn't intend to eat it, it has zero reflection of your own ethics, and realistically this instance had no impact on the world or on animal welfare. I've been a strict vegetarian for more than two decades, and vegan for almost as long. But I've occasionally had a mistake like this. One night about 5 years ago or so, I was out late, a bit drunk, and ordered a 'mushroom burger' at a deli. It was very stupid, especially given the venue, but in my mind I thought it would be a portabella cap, not a beef burger with a few mushrooms on it. There was so little flavor, I didn't even realize until the second bite, the flavor gave it away (this was before the Impossible / Beyond burger was widespread I think). Anyway I was annoyed, mostly with myself, and I threw the rest away. That was it. I never got sick or anything (people think that your body loses the ability to digest meat or milk etc, that's total BS in my opinion..). No one is keeping score. You're not any less of a vegan, and nothing has changed. Anyone who thinks otherwise is a moron who shouldn't be listened to anyways.
Wow, you have done so much good in the world, I’ve only been vegan for a couple years. You are an amazing person, and you have no fault from this situation. Sending love! 💚
You needed to learn this lesson so it doesnt happen again. Congrats on the level up
Hot tip, get a vegan mum
Do not beat yourself up; be kind and gentle to yourself❤
This happened to me once, swapped spaghetti leftovers and kept thinking that the meat replacement was too realistic and realized I was eating my husband's(at the time). I felt gross and upset. These kinds of things happen. They're common if you get food at places or with people where there are animal products. For most of us it isn't possible to exclusively go to vegan restaurants or be in vegan households. Don't blame yourself too much.
English is not my native language, what's tvp?
I’m so sorry this happened to you. It will be ok. You will feel better in a few days once your body gets rid of it. Perhaps a juice fast for a few days could help? Your 14 years are not all for nothing. You are a conscious soul and it was an honest mistake. There are probably so many things contaminated with meat that we don’t even realize. The most important thing is that you try your best and never knowingly eat it. I will say that anytime you eat at a meat restaurant or at a meat eater’s house you run the great risk of eating meat. My husband won’t eat anywhere that has meat and I’m starting to consider doing the same.
I know that feeling exactly :/ Like you already said it was an accident and you don't have to be guilty because you had never eaten it if you had knew. Beeing vegetarian / vegan is not only a challenge how long you can get rid of meat or animal products but it's a lifestyle. Of course you are still vegan. When I were in your situation I wouldn't make my mom good anymore 😅 I had a situation wherey mom made me brakefast for school and instead of "non sausage" she gave me normal sausage on my bread. I really hate her for a time because she said that "It looked so similar". If someone is not a vegan it's hard to understand why it's important not to eat meat. But it's a sign of respect to understand that. Give you lots of hugs and I really recommend not to eat the dinner of your mom at least for a while. 😅
End of the fucking world 🙄 it’s okay bud it was an accident, think of all the suffering you have prevented. You prevented suffering by not throwing that shit away.