Just when I thought I was going to start enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of a vegan diet, Tabitha Philips created the Vegan Coconut Éclair (“Contest calls for vegan variations,” June 16).

I love being able to eat healthy, knowing that I’m helping the environment while still able to munch on a delicious, cruelty-free éclair.

Well, it’s a good thing that my vegan diet means that I am at a much lower risk of suffering from heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity than my omnivorous counterparts are.

Not only does a vegan diet mean I can satisfy my sweet tooth’s occasional pastry plea, it’s also much better for the environment.

Earlier this month, the United Nations released an extensive report concluding that “a substantial reduction in [environmental] impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.”

When else will an éclair and the right decision be the same thing?

Go vegan!

To receive your free vegan/vegetarian starter kit, visit peta2.com.

Drew winters
Norfolk, Virginia
College Campaigns Assistant for peta2

Investigation shows danger in doughnuts

As a vegan, thank you for featuring Tabitha Philips and her efforts to promote vegan baked goods (“Contest calls for vegan variations,” June 16).

Demand for alternatives to traditionally non-vegan products like donuts is increasing as the number of vegans continues to grow.

Tabitha proves it is possible to create unique confections without compromising taste or ethics.

In addition, vegan desserts appeal to any health-conscious consumer desiring a treat free of unhealthy cholesterol and saturated fat.

There are plenty of reasons for caring consumers to avoid Dunkin’ Donuts.

In a recent investigation by Compassion over Killing, an undercover employee discovered horrific signs of suffering at a factory farm owned by Michael Foods, a major egg supplier to Dunkin’ Donuts, including hens crammed together in cages unable to move as well as dead and injured birds interspersed with live birds.

To learn more, please visit DunkinCruelty.com.

Mary Morgan Johnson
Atlanta

The president is not to blame for oil spill

The citizens of our country need to get off of the moral high horse on which they’ve firmly seated themselves.

BP made mistakes — so what?

They are doing all they can to fix their problem and prevent a mass panic.

How many times do you scold a child for spilling something?

Usually, just the one time is sufficient.

This endless yelling and blaming of BP isn’t constructive, nor is it capping the well or cleaning the beaches.

Every American who chooses to use petroleum and gasoline, myself included, is to blame for this disaster; not some poor suit who sits in a building in London and answers to the shareholders.

Christopher smith
Senior, Alpharetta
Political science