As South Africa prepares to celebrate Heritage Day on September 24, 2025, a day meant for uniting families and friends through shared meals and stories, FOUR PAWS South Africa is inviting citizens to rethink their festive traditions.
The organisation advocates for delicious plant-based braai swaps that not only delight the palate but also promote kindness to animals and sustainability.
The braai, an iconic part of this public holiday, has long served as a foundation for gathering in the spirit of celebration among the diverse communities of the Rainbow Nation.
Fiona Miles, the Director at FOUR PAWS South Africa, emphasises the significance of this opportunity: “Heritage Day is about celebrating what makes South Africa unique, and that includes our deep connection to food and the outdoors. By choosing plant-based options this Braai Day, we can honour our traditions while also taking a stand for animals, our health, and the planet.”
Good for animals and the planet: A plant-based diet helps reduce meat consumption, thereby supporting animal welfare and significantly lowering environmental impacts.
Easy to do and delicious: With simple recipes like mushroom medallions, veggie kebabs, bean-based salads, or vegan potato salad, it’s easy to create cruelty-free meals at home.
Inclusive and fun: Plant-based options ensure that everyone, regardless of dietary preferences, can partake in the braai without feeling excluded.
A meaningful nod to tradition: These choices respect cultural celebrations by aligning them with a modern commitment to compassion for all life.
"In a kinder world, our food choices would have no negative impact on animals, human health, or the environment," adds Miles. “That world can start right here, at our braai grill, on Heritage Day. Small changes on our plates can have a big impact; this is a celebration where compassion should be part of the menu.”
FOUR PAWS encourages all South Africans to transform their braais into celebrations of compassion this Heritage Day.
Saturday Star