History and traditions
Meals without meat are far older than the word vegan. Buddhist and Hindu kitchens developed rich vegetarian traditions, and beans, lentils and grains have always fed most of the world. The modern grain bowl and vegetable main course came out of health food cafes in the late twentieth century.
Food economy and industry
Plant-based eating is a growing part of the food market. Pulses and grains need less land and water than meat, and legumes improve the soil. Quinoa from the Andes, avocados from Mexico and soy for tofu are all traded worldwide.