Are coconuts vegan? They come from plants, so they should be, right? Sadly, that is not always the case. Forced monkey labor continues to be a horrifying, often unseen part of the industry. Despite a three-year campaign by the animal advocacy group PETA, monkeys in Thailand are still forced to pick coconuts for hours each day. When they are not harvesting the fruits, they are often kept chained to the ground in solitary conditions.
Source: PETA Asia/YouTube
Farmers may also utilize cruel training methods to ensure the monkey’s behavior. Videos show trainers whipping the monkeys and hanging them by their necks. Additionally, their front teeth are often removed so that the animals cannot bite. Monkeys are often stolen from their mothers at young ages. They then are forced not only to work long hours but also to live unnaturally solitary lives. Since monkeys are naturally social creatures, this causes them extreme mental distress. While working in coconut trees, monkeys may also be stung or bitten by insects. They may also suffer broken bones as a result of falling or being yanked from trees.
Coconut products continue to grow in popularity. Although brands such as HelloFresh have stopped using Thai coconut products in their popular meal kits, many companies and brands still carry coconut products produced with monkey labor. The Thai government has also done little to regulate the industry. Without oversight, little is done to stop the use of monkey labor. Additionally, many brands throughout the world continue to sell products produced with monkey labor in their shops. These products may include coconut milk, water, flour, sugar, and more.
Monkey labor is cruel, and forces these creatures to lead unnatural lives full of suffering. When buying coconut products, be sure to buy ones that are produced without the exploitation of monkeys. Additionally, sign this petition asking Whole Foods to stop selling Coconut Products made with monkey labor!
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Humans are the only animals that have to pay other humans for the right to live on the planet. Monkeys treat each other better than we do our own kind.