EATING 'JAI' ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE NEW YEAR

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, many Chinese families would go on a vegetarian diet.  In Cantonese, vegetarian food is called "Jai".  There are a few reasons why custom dictates such a diet for the start of a new year. 
One reason is that a vegetarian meal would counteract the effects of the excessive feasting on New Year's Eve. Many Chinese, especially those of the Buddhist faith abstain from meat consumption on the first day because it is believed that they will be able to live longer.  Another reason why the Chinese only eat vegetarian dishes on the first day of New Year's is because they believe in "no killing" on that day. That's the day for thanking the Gods for a good year by not killing or harming animals.
The Kuan Yin Cave Temple that I go to each year would treat visitors to a vegetarian meal on the first day.  The food is sponsored by some well-wishers.  In the above picture, you see the Jai that was served to me.