‘Go Vegan’ festival begins

"Better storage and distribution facilities will help in reducing wastage and ensuring quality" said P. Subbian, Registrar and Vice-Chancellor in-charge, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University.

The fruits and vegetable show that began at Big Bazaar in Coimbatore on Saturday. Photo:K. Ananthan

“Fruit and vegetables production should be increased by 20 per cent to 30 per cent to meet the food requirements of the country. Care should also be taken to reduce the wastage of fruits and vegetables which amounts to Rs. 44,000 crore a year,” said P. Subbian, Registrar and Vice-Chancellor in-charge, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University.

He was speaking after inaugurating the ‘Go Vegan’ fest organised by Big Bazaar at its store at Oppanakara Street. He added that the older generations followed a healthy diet which included nutrient-rich food like grams, cereal, seasonal fruits and local vegetables.

“We should reduce the use of pesticides and chemicals in cultivation. Better storage and distribution facilities will help in reducing wastage and ensuring quality,” he said.

The 12-day festival would have over 300 varieties of fruits and vegetables on display. During the festival, the food court would serve only vegetarian food. The vegan counters at the food court would serve food that do not use any animal products including cheese, butter and milk, said S. Dharmendra, Area Manager, Big Bazaar.

Competitions including fancy dress, vegetable carving, vegetable architecture and essay writing on the theme ‘Go Vegan’ would be organised as part of the fest, the organisers said.

The Hindu is the media partner for the event.