Waking up to the smell of freshly brewed black coffee and toasted bread is something that can commonly be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans. But the similarities could very well end there. Being completely animal- and animal by product-free, milk, butter and cheese are foods that vegans do not consume and have to be substituted, as well as ham slices, sausage links or bacon rashers.

There are a few other options such as fruit slices and vegetable juices that are plant-based but for other morning favorites substitutions have to be made. Fortunately, with the rapid popularity of products simulating dairy, cereals and muesli can be enjoyed with milk made from soy, rice and nuts (usually almonds). Vegetable spreads can replace butter in pancakes, waffles and French toast.

Being the most important meal of the day, breakfast is essential for one to perform optimally both in adults and most especially children. Their growing bodies and developing brains are dependent on a steady food intake. When kids miss this meal, it is tantamount to starving them for more up to 18 hours! And because their bodies are in the growth stage, missing breakfast potentially causes problems such as stunted growth and decreased mental capacity and personal development issues.

Breakfast, together with soups, salads and desserts, are among the easiest dishes to make without adding animal products. Preparation levels are practically next to non-existent. Peel a potassium-rich banana and get similar vitamins and minerals you get from a supplement minus the synthetic and chemical additives. Munch on an apple a day and keep the doctor away. Pour cold soy or nut milk on a bowl of cereals powered up with dried or fresh fruit.

If you have more time to spare in the kitchen in the morning, bake a nice cornbread or whip up a crusty multigrain loaf loaded with fiber. Store bought or home-made jams, jellies and marmalades are a perfect complement to these baked goods. The aroma will surely keep your family from rushing out of the house in the morning and could lead to more quality bonding time on the breakfast table.

In any breakfast dish or other meals for that matter, consume what’s in season for a fresher more nutritious meal, not to mention more affordable and delicious!