Plant-based lifestyles are gaining momentum for their positive impact on health, the environment, and ethical food choices. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Vegan Cooking and Nutrition is a professionally developed programme that introduces participants to the principles of balanced vegan nutrition, alongside practical culinary skills to create delicious, nourishing plant-based meals. Delivered to UK standards, this diploma is ideal for those seeking to deepen their knowledge of vegan nutrition while gaining confidence in preparing health-supportive vegan dishes.
With growing awareness of the health and sustainability benefits of plant-based diets, the demand for evidence-based education in vegan nutrition is higher than ever. This diploma has been designed to provide participants with a clear, structured understanding of the nutritional requirements of a vegan lifestyle, while also focusing on practical cooking skills. From nutrient planning to food preparation, the course offers a balanced blend of theory and hands-on learning to support both personal and professional development.
Across 30 guided hours, the programme covers essential aspects of plant-based nutrition, cooking techniques, ingredient selection, and meal planning. Participants learn to address common nutritional concerns in vegan diets, such as sources of protein, iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3s, as well as how to avoid nutrient deficiencies. Each module builds knowledge and confidence in designing well-rounded vegan meals that are both appealing and nutritionally complete.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Vegan Cooking and Nutrition combines practical cooking instruction with evidence-based nutritional guidance, ensuring participants leave with the confidence to prepare balanced meals and offer informed support to others. It is tailored to meet the needs of those looking to embrace or promote a vegan lifestyle through knowledge, skill, and purpose.
Upon completion, participants may choose to advance into specialist areas such as plant-based sports nutrition, vegan culinary arts, or public health education. The course also supports progression into roles related to health coaching, food product development, or sustainable food initiatives.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Vegan Cooking and Nutrition
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Vegan Nutrition and Health Foundations (3 hours)
- Understand the principles and benefits of a vegan lifestyle
- Recognise the connection between plant-based eating and long-term health
- Identify the components of a balanced vegan diet
- Explore the impact of veganism on personal, environmental, and ethical health
Macronutrients and Their Role in a Vegan Diet (4 hours)
- Describe the functions and dietary sources of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in vegan nutrition
- Understand energy balance and how macronutrients support body function
- Evaluate how to meet macronutrient needs using plant-based foods
- Apply macronutrient principles to support various lifestyle and activity levels
Micronutrients: Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplementation (4 hours)
- Identify essential micronutrients commonly lacking in vegan diets
- Understand the importance of vitamins B12, D, iron, calcium, iodine, and zinc
- Learn how to prevent nutrient deficiencies through diet and supplementation
- Analyse food sources and fortification strategies to meet micronutrient needs
Whole Food Sources and Plant-Based Proteins (6 hours)
- Explore the nutritional value of legumes, grains, nuts, seeds, and vegetables
- Understand how to combine plant foods to create complete protein profiles
- Assess the role of minimally processed foods in a healthy vegan diet
- Practise identifying and selecting nutrient-dense whole food options
Core Vegan Cooking Methods and Kitchen Safety (4 hours)
- Learn essential cooking techniques used in plant-based meal preparation
- Understand kitchen hygiene and food safety practices
- Gain hands-on experience in preparing vegan dishes using diverse ingredients
- Apply cooking methods that preserve nutritional value and flavour
Balanced Vegan Meal Planning and Preparation (3 hours)
- Develop the ability to plan nutritionally complete vegan meals
- Incorporate variety, texture, and balance into daily menus
- Adapt meals to suit individual dietary needs and preferences
- Create practical and sustainable weekly meal plans
Creative Vegan Baking and Alternative Ingredients (3 hours)
- Identify common plant-based substitutes for dairy, eggs, and gluten in baking
- Understand the function of alternative ingredients in achieving desired textures
- Practise creating baked goods using vegan-friendly techniques
- Enhance confidence in experimenting with new recipes and ingredient combinations
Nutritional Myths and Common Challenges in Vegan Diets (3 hours)
- Address common misconceptions related to vegan nutrition
- Understand social and practical challenges associated with plant-based eating
- Learn strategies to respond to misinformation and promote informed choices
- Build confidence in overcoming barriers to a balanced vegan lifestyle
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Vegan Cooking and Nutrition
- Provides a balanced combination of nutritional theory and practical vegan cooking skills
- Equips participants with the knowledge to design nutritionally complete plant-based meals
- Enhances understanding of essential nutrients and how to meet daily needs through a vegan diet
- Builds confidence in preparing a wide variety of health-supportive vegan dishes
- Encourages sustainable and ethical food choices for personal and professional practice
- Supports creativity in vegan recipe development, baking, and presentation
- Addresses common nutritional challenges and misconceptions with evidence-based guidance
- Suitable for integration into wellness, hospitality, health education, or personal use
- Promotes long-term health, disease prevention, and mindful eating habits
- Aligned with UK dietary guidelines and current trends in plant-based living
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Vegan Cooking and Nutrition is designed for participants who wish to explore or deepen their understanding of plant-based living through both nutrition and culinary practice. This course is ideal for:
- Individuals interested in adopting or maintaining a healthy vegan lifestyle
- Health and wellness professionals looking to integrate vegan nutrition into their work
- Culinary enthusiasts aiming to develop practical skills in vegan cooking and baking
- Fitness trainers, coaches, or therapists supporting clients with plant-based nutrition
- Hospitality professionals creating vegan menus or catering for plant-based diets
- Anyone seeking evidence-based guidance on ethical, sustainable food choices
No prior experience is required, making the course accessible to beginners as well as those with a background in health, nutrition, or food preparation.
