Schenectady Greenmarket (inside Proctor's)

On March 25, 2012, members of the Albany Vegetarian Network set up a vegan outreach table in honor of the Great American Meatout, organized by Farm Animal Rights Movement. This tabling and food sampling event took place at Schenectady Greenmarket inside Proctor's theater from 10 am - 2 pm. Although there are a few companies at this venue which sell vegan products, the majority of the vendors sell non-vegan items, which made this a perfect location for outreach.

The companies that generously donated products included Turtle Island, Gardein, Field Roast and Whole Soy & Co. Approximately 500 samples were passed out to the shopping-crowd, who seemed genuinely interested in the various items being offered, such as Tofurky slices, Whole Soy and Co. yogurt, Field Roast sausages, Gardein bbq "chicken" and "beef" tips, Rice Dream and almond milk. Some people even waited to try a sample that was being cooked before moving on with their travels. Most people enjoyed the meat alternatives and plainly stated so.

Many questions were asked about non-dairy milk products, vitamins and minerals especially important to vegans and where to buy the products that were being sampled. Book suggestions pertaining to these questions, particularly the nutrition queries, were given to those interested.

Stickers from People for the Ethical Treatment of animals and temporary tattoos

and buttons from Turtle Island (makers of Tofurky) were all very popular. Much literature was shared on one table, from organizations such as Farm Sanctuary, Farm Animal Rights Movement, People for the Ethical Treatement of Animals and Vegan Outreach. Coupons were also available for many of the products that were being sampled.

We look forward to returning to this event later in the year!