Letters to the Editors
More Food Allergy-Free Recipes, Please!
I have a comment about the focus on soy products in your magazine. I have been a vegetarian for more than 30 years. For a long time, I cooked regularly with tofu and other soy products. Then, 15 years ago, I developed an allergy to soy (probably there all along but just not as severe). Through an elimination diet, I also discovered several other foods I was quite allergic (or sensitive) to, including corn, eggs, peanuts, sesame, and some other foods to a lesser extent.
I know soy foods make cooking easy for many vegans and vegetarians and can have certain health benefits. It has been a challenge, but I've learned to make delicious, healthful meals without the use of these foods. It would be great if I could see more nonsoy recipes using a variety of beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, etc., featured in your magazine.
Also, I am just curious if you receive other letters from people with allergies. I think that soy, corn, eggs, dairy, etc., are some of the most common allergens, so I'm always surprised that I don't hear more about that.
Thanks for the wonderful job you do in informing people about the many benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle!
Holly M., via e-mail
VRG Materials Help to Revitalize Floundering Vegetarian Group
As a member of the VRG since becoming vegan three years ago, I have enjoyed your Journal, cookbooks, and newsletters.
About two months ago, my husband and I volunteered to chair a languishing vegetarian group in the retirement community where we live six months out of the year. I called VRG for guidance and feel that I struck gold. Jeannie McStay was so willing to talk with me and tell me about other vegetarian groups and then provided many different handouts and references for our group.
Our first meeting was a great success, in large part due to VRG and Jeannie's help. Now, of course, we need to continue to make this a vital and worthwhile organization.
Both my husband and I want to thank VRG for the support and materials. Never having done this before, I know I will be calling on your organization again.
Thank you so much!
Ruth B., Tucson, AZ
