Rabbi Adam Grossman’s journey to plant-based eating is a testament to the transformative power of food choices. Inspired by his spouse’s decision to adopt a sustainable lifestyle, Grossman embarked on a journey that would change his life and deepen his connection to Judaism. “I am physically stronger, clearer mentally, more emotionally level-headed, and more present with my Judaism,” he says. Prior to his switch to a plant-based diet, he noted, “I was on a never-ending endeavor to find the perfect hamburger.” He continues, “There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to conscious…eating, and eating choices are personal decisions.” By sharing his experience, Grossman aims to inspire others to explore their own relationship with food and health, no matter what’s on their plates. The Center for Jewish Food Ethics (CJFE) is leading the way in promoting sustainable food practices in Jewish institutions. As part of this effort, CJFE has launched the “Shalom Begins on Your Plate” campaign, a video initiative that highlights the connection between plant-based eating, Jewish values, and collective well-being. Grossman is among the leaders featured in this campaign, sharing his insights on the transformative power of food choices. It is fascinating to note that Israel holds the highest percentage of vegans in the world, and Grossman points out that this vision for compassionate eating has its roots in our Jewish tradition, starting with the dietary vision presented in Genesis:
There are many interpretations of Jewish food law. Plant-based is no doubt elevated by the Hebrew Bible and many scholars, including Rashi. Sequentially, the first mention of permitted foods comes in [Parashat] B’reshit [in Genesis] 1:29-31: “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.” It is not until eight chapters later that Genesis introduces meat eating.
Grossman believes that our food choices have the power to promote justice and wholeness in the world. He cites the value of baal tashchit (prohibition against wasteful destruction) as a guiding principle for environmental stewardship. The growth of the livestock industry poses significant risks to the environment and human health. Grossman says it is decimating livable areas, drastically affecting air quality, reducing freshwater supply, and eliminating natural habitats necessary for survival. More than any single “save the environment” change, Grossman argues, switching to a plant-based diet on a large scale would drastically minimize these issues and fulfill our obligation to take care of our world and its resources. Grossman’s commitment to plant-based eating is also informed by his concern for animal welfare. He cites the law of tza’ar ba’alei chayim (prohibition against animal cruelty) as a guiding principle for treating animals with compassion and respect. Grossman notes,
Eating meat or dairy is not against Jewish law or the value of tza’ar ba’alei chayim . However, how we slaughter an animal is under its auspices. With greater knowledge of animal well-being, we should question whether the kosher slaughtering process used for centuries still meets the value of tza’ar ba’alei chayim. 
According to Grossman, embracing a whole-food plant-based diet can be truly lifesaving. Pikuach Nefesh, the act of saving a human life, is a fundamental principle in Jewish law. By prioritizing a healthy plant-based lifestyle, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Scientific research has shown that a well-planned plant-based diet can even reverse some of these conditions, underscoring the profound impact of our food choices on our overall health and wellbeing. Grossman acknowledges there are challenges of implementing plant-based initiatives within Jewish communities. However, he emphasizes the importance of education in shaping food choices and values. He notes,
What we don’t know, we can’t act upon. I would encourage everyone to delve into how our food choices can transform one’s life for the better and impact our world. While committing to eating plant based takes work and discipline, it not only helps you, but also those you encounter.
“The effort [to adopt more sustainable food practices] grows more urgent by the day, especially as industrial animal agriculture is a primary driver of environmental threats such as deforestation, pollution, and climate-warming emissions,” states Rabbi Jonathan Bernhard, director of clergy relations at CJFE. “Our tradition calls us to be stewards of the earth, of the other animals with whom we share it, and of our bodies. Each of these responsibilities resonates in the mitzvot [and] the sacred opportunities life grants us.”