Vegans of the World: Mrinali Kumar, New Zealand

Vegans of the World: Mrinali Kumar, New Zealand

Meet Milli, the inspiring food entrepreneur who is turning cauliflower into delicious, creamy vegan ice cream with her New Zealand based food brand EAT KINDA. I first met Milli in the spring of 2023 at the Vegan Women Summit in Brooklyn NY and have loved following her journey. 

Q: When did you first go Vegan?
A: Over a year ago

Q: What happened, what was the reason you chose to go Vegan?
A: I grew up vegetarian, once I learnt about the truth of the dairy industry, expecially after I watched a documentary called Milked, it was a no brainer. I am vegan for the animals and the planet.

Q: How did you feel when you made the decision to go Vegan?
A:
I felt sad, as I learnt about the dairy industry, and the cruelty that is caused by foods I used to love.

Q: What 3 words best describe how you felt?
A: Sad, angry, fustrated

Q: What was or has been the most challenging part?
A: Not being able to eat foods I grew up with culturally. Dairy is a big part of the indian diet, and I miss out on many foods I grew up with as there aren't vegan options yet.

Q: What was the hardest food for you to 'give up'?
A: Yoghurt & cheese
Q: Are there any foods or products that you are available now that you wished existed back then?
A: Some delicious cheese options in US, not in NZ yet

Q: Did you go Vegan by yourself or did you know others?
A: My partner and I both went vegan

Q: What do you find the most challenging about being around non vegan people?
A: The smell of meat

Q: What's it like being Vegan in New Zealand?
A: Veganism in NZ is growing, however historically there is a strong farming community so difficult to communicate the ethics side of things. Vegan options are growing.


Q: What would you say has changed the most in terms of Veganism over the course of your journey?
A: Definetly becoming more accepted


Q: What do you eat at least 3-5 times a week?
A: Soy products


Q: What do you find is most challenging when it comes to Vegan Fashion? 
A: Cost

Q: Can you share 3-5 of your favourite Vegan Brands or Products?
A: 
LiveTinted, Rebel Cheese (tried in US, so good), Vitasoy soy milk, Silk yoghurt, EatKinda

Q: What was the funniest/craziest thing that someone has said or you've heard/read about Veganism or about being Vegan?
A: 
Being vegan is also hurtful to animals because of all the insects/animals killed during plant production

Q: The #1 reason you are Vegan:
A: For the Animals

You can follow Milli and EatKinda @milli.kumar @eatkinda and check out their site here: https://www.eatkinda.com
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