Top Saudi Vegan Blogger Challenges Protein Trends
RIYADH: Raoum Al-Suhaibani, also known as “Sukkari” on social media, is revolutionizing the narrative around veganism in Saudi Arabia. With a massive online following, Al-Suhaibani started her journey to share the joys of a plant-based lifestyle and to address common misconceptions about vegan diets.
In a recent conversation with Arab News, Al-Suhaibani stated that “Protein is overhyped,” emphasizing that the focus should instead be on increasing fiber intake to address widespread digestive issues. “No one is getting enough fiber,” she remarked.
Her dedication to spreading awareness resulted in her cookbook “Tamr wa Tahina” ("Dates and Tahini"), which took five years to complete and was published in September. The book aims to educate readers on the nutritional benefits of various ingredients while providing solutions to common health concerns like irritable bowel syndrome.
Al-Suhaibani's vegan recipes incorporate easily accessible ingredients, although she provides alternatives for rarer items to accommodate those who live in less urban areas. She shared, “I always like to try to give alternatives to people, because I know not everyone lives in a big city and has access to things like tofu and almond butter.”
Her advocacy extends beyond nutrition, having embraced a vegan diet in 2016 after researching the ethical and environmental impacts of vegetarianism. Alongside her dietary changes, Al-Suhaibani also practices yoga, a discipline she discovered during her university years in the United States, leading to further personal growth and self-discovery.
The blogger's influence is demonstrated with her diversified platforms, urging gradual transition towards veganism and promoting self-education on its various benefits. “It’d be nice to show people that you can live a healthy life in Saudi. You can be vegan. You can be active,” she stated, encouraging others to discover a sustainable lifestyle.
“Tamr wa Tahina” is available at Jarir Bookstore and online at Sukkari Store, offering both traditional and e-book formats for a wide-reaching impact.
From April 7 to 11, 2025, the 16th Dairy Olympics, the key event in the global dairy market, will take place in the city of Al Ain, bringing together leading global experts in the dairy industry. You can participate in the Dairy Olympics by registering via the link: https://olympics.dairynews.today/
