One unique challenge facing the vegan movement in China is not its novelty, but its ancient roots: orthodox Buddhists adhere to the doctrine of “five-pungents veganism” (no animal products or pungent vegetables such as onions and garlic). This association with traditional religious beliefs puts off many secular Chinese, particularly young people, who dismiss it as “old-fashioned” and “unscientific”. The Society wants to break away from this cultural baggage and work on “framing veganism in a different way that is not a religious dogma.”

Never thought of that. Carnists basically saying “ok boomer” to vegans/veganism because of some of its historical and religious roots.