Context:

John Robbins, known for his influential book 'Diet for a New America,' passed away at 77 due to complications from post-polio syndrome. A former heir to the Baskin-Robbins ice cream empire, he famously rejected his family's business to advocate for a plant-based diet, environmentalism, and animal rights. His book, published in 1987, linked the consumption of animal products to chronic illnesses and highlighted the environmental and ethical issues surrounding factory farming. Despite some criticism for exaggerating facts, Robbins' work was groundbreaking and has been compared to Rachel Carson's 'Silent Spring' in its impact on public awareness. His advocacy led to the founding of the Food Revolution Network with his son, Ocean Robbins, promoting sustainable and ethical food choices worldwide.

Dive Deeper:

• Born on October 26, 1947, John Robbins was the son of Irvine Robbins, a co-founder of Baskin-Robbins. Despite his early involvement in the family business, he chose a different path, influenced by his philosophical beliefs and concerns about health and animal welfare.

• Robbins contracted polio at the age of five, which left him with lasting physical impairments. However, through a disciplined lifestyle including yoga and a healthier diet, he overcame his limitations to the extent of completing marathon-length runs and triathlons.

• His book 'Diet for a New America' sold over a million copies and was praised for its comprehensive examination of the health risks associated with meat-heavy diets, the environmental impact of factory farming, and the ethical treatment of animals.

• Robbins faced criticism for allegedly mixing facts with anecdotes and exaggerating claims, such as the impact of cattle farming on deforestation and pesticide levels in meat and dairy. Nonetheless, his message was clear in advocating for dietary changes for the betterment of health, the environment, and animal rights.

• In 2012, Robbins and his son founded the Food Revolution Network, an educational platform advocating for sustainable and ethical food systems. His legacy includes influencing public figures like Paul McCartney and effecting change in his father's lifestyle, who improved his health by adopting recommendations from John's book.

• Robbins lived a minimalist lifestyle after leaving his family's business, building a modest home in British Columbia and living on a minimal income. His advocacy work continued into his later years despite health challenges, including post-polio syndrome.

• John Robbins reconciled with his father in the late 1980s after Irv Robbins, following the dietary advice from 'Diet for a New America,' improved his health significantly. This reconciliation underscored the profound personal and public impact of his work.