In response to your article “Vegetarians pitch healthy alternatives” (Oct. 22), it was very encouraging to see so much support for animal-free products at the Boston Vegetarian Festival this past weekend, and an article about it. The popularity of vegetarian foods has grown exponentially during the past few years, and it’s great to see that Beantown is staying on top of the trend by offering such a wonderful annual event.

The shift toward vegetarianism is particularly prevalent among college students, who recent studies show are looking for healthier, more humane cuisine. In fact, a recent survey by Aramark, a leading food service provider, shows that nearly a quarter of college students are actively looking for better vegan options when they sit down to eat, for reasons ranging from environmental destruction by the meat industry, to concern for cruelty to animals.

It would make sense though that a city with a history of social justice activism would be on the forefront of the push toward a vegetarian diet. Animals killed for food suffer from birth until death, with many of them being skinned and dismembered while still fully conscious. This is the product of an industry that refuses to make even the most basic changes in the way animals are raised in an effort to cut corners and increase profits. If these kinds of abuses were inflicted upon cats or dogs, it would result in felony cruelty to animals charges.

Fortunately, with such a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan products available these days, including barbecue “riblets” and vegan pizza, it’s easier than ever to find delicious cruelty-free cuisine on the go. For more information on vegetarianism, visit <a href="http://www.peta2.com“>www.peta2.com to request a free vegetarian starter kit, as well as stickers and a DVD.

– Ryan Huling is the College Campaign Coordinator for peta2.com