Are Figs Vegan?

 A fig controversy

Did you know there was a controversy about whether figs were vegan or not?  The debate starts because of the figs relationship with wasps.  One can not survive without the other, although a wasp might get the short end of the stick.  A wasp uses the fig to lay eggs.  Figs actually eat wasps for nutrients and to grow.  The fig plant actually lures the wasps in and traps them for food.Argument for figs being veganFigs and wasps live a symbiotic relationship that is a natural occurrence.  Sometimes, nature can be cruel but there is not a human exploitation of an animal in the process.

Argument they are not vegan

An animal is harmed for the production of figs.  A wasps life is lost in the  growing of the fig.  Life can not be more cruel and less compassionate that that.  That wasps life is worth more than the fig.

What do I think?

Mother earth is complex, amazing, powerful and sometimes cruel. Animals eat animals; plants eat animals. Nature, left to its own devices is set up to take care of something majestic with a greater purpose unlike when a human disrupts the systems. These things happen for a reason and we can't necessarily understand. Mother Nature is not always neat and tidy. My understanding of veganism- is the liberation of animals from being manipulated for human consumption, use, torture including the eating and wearing of animals. (Not the official definition) We humans are ridiculous in how we utilize animals and bees and other beings. We are in no way natural with how we connect with the earth and other beings. The fig plant is acting on instinct or by design- it is not being unnatural or cruel. We would not fault the cheetah for its eating habits.

What do you think?

Share in the comments below.More resources:

• Learn more about figs.

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