Emmy-nominated actress and Top Chef presenter Padma Lakshmi has joined forces with MorningStar Farms to encourage people to take the 'Veg of Allegiance', by eating veggie protein instead of meat for one meal a week or more, and share their pledge on social media using the hashtag #VegAllegiance.

Lakshmi commented 'My life revolves around food - I'm either cooking it, eating it or tasting it as the host and a judge on Top Chef. I'm an adventurous eater, but try and stick to a diet rich in vegetables because I believe what we eat matters. That's why I'm taking the Veg of Allegiance and want others to join me'.