Despite what many people think, shrimp is not a vegan food. However, there are plenty of vegan alternatives to shrimp, and it’s possible to eat shrimp without harming animals.
Although a large number of vegans avoid seafood and shellfish because they believe the animals aren’t worthy of living, some have decided to eat crustaceans. Crustaceans include crayfish, lobster, and octopus. They may eat crustaceans for religious reasons, or for environmental concerns.
A good vegan substitute for shrimp is red algae. It’s easy to find, inexpensive, and requires no dye or animal ingredients. The taste is identical to real shrimp.
Vegans can also opt for vegan shrimp, which is made from a mix of algae and protein-based plant powders. This product is baked like bread, and retains a crunchy texture.
Shrimp is a good source of cholesterol and sodium, and is not an ideal choice for vegans. But, it’s a common source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to be necessary for a healthy diet.
There are also a number of companies that produce vegan-friendly alternatives to shrimp. New Wave Foods, for instance, is a new company that aims to replace conventional shrimp in restaurants. It uses seaweed that is sustainably farmed.
Another option is BlueNalu. This startup company is aiming to lead the world in cell-based seafood production. Instead of using questionable labor practices, the company will focus on avoiding animal slaughter, and it will not harm ocean creatures. Their products are expected to be available later this year.