The Friends of Animals association said on Monday, on the occasion of World Vegetarian Day, observed on October 1, that that day was an excellent opportunity to switch to vegetarianism, which would benefit animals, environment and humans.

The association says that every year thousands of people who want cruelty against animals to stop and who want to live a healthier life in harmony with nature opt for vegetarianism.

Vegetarianism benefits all, animals, environment and humans, considering the fact that more than 70 billion animals are bred and slaughtered annually around the world for human consumption, the association says.

The observance of World Vegetarian Day started in 1977. According to the latest statistics, there are more than 200,000 vegetarians in Croatia. A survey shows that 86% of Croatians support vegetarianism, while 29% believe they could become vegetarians one day.