According to the Vegetarian Resource Group, becoming vegan has become increasingly popular among teenagers and high school students. Whether it is for the health reasons, the environmental reasons, or because many see it as a new trend, veganism is on the rise in 2017.

The dictionary definition of a vegan is one who does not eat or use animal products. Nothing that comes from animals can be consumed or used which means no milk, eggs. Being a vegan is different from just not eating meat, as vegetarians do.

Vegan diets consist of fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, seeds, beans and pulses–all of which can be prepared in endless combinations according to The Vegan Society, a group of vegans promoting and supporting the movement.

Sarah Marsh of the Guardian.com says, “The movement is driven by the young–close to half of all vegans are aged 15-34 (42%).”

The growth in popularity is shown in daily life too. Beauty products such as shampoo and face wash are advertised as 100% vegan, and grocery stores sell options such as veggie burgers and soy milk.

The vegan society says, “Vegans avoid exploiting animals for any purpose, with compassion being a key reason many choose a vegan lifestyle. From accessories and clothing to bathroom items, animal products are found in more places than you might expect. Fortunately nowadays there are affordable and easily-sourced alternatives to just about everything.”

Many celebrities and public figures have shined a light on veganism to teenagers. Beyonce tried a 22 day vegan meal plan and documented her meals on her Instagram. Ellen Degeneres and Ariana Grande are “certified vegans,” according to Bustle.

The Vegan Society says, “With over 22,000 products and services registered with our Vegan Trademark alone, living a vegan lifestyle has never been easier. “

Vegetarianism is another option for the same health/environmental concerns as well as concerns for the animals affected by meat production.

Mckenna Creasey, a senior at Arrowhead High school, who is a vegetarian says, “I decided to change my diet after watching a documentary and then continuing to fully educate myself about the meat industry and I went cold turkey the next day, I’ve been a vegetarian for almost a year now and I never plan to go back.”