More than 25% of British people want to reduce their meat intake

A new survey shows that more than a quarter of Britons are thinking about reducing their household meat intake.

Market research company YouGov has shown that 27% of people in the UK are considering cutting down on animal foods, the main reason being to protect the environment.

The meat industry is leading to environmental destruction across the planet. First, the industry emits significant amounts of greenhouse gases, and is a leading cause of deforestation. This industry also uses a lot of toxic pesticides in growing animal feed, causing serious impacts on the surrounding ecosystem.

The YouGov survey, released in partnership with the Vegetarian Society, also asked participants which animal protection would motivate them to give up meat, and about 40% chose bees.

The results of a recent study by the University of Bonn in Germany suggest that rich countries should cut meat by at least 75%.

Lead author Dr Matin Qaim said: “If everyone ate as much meat as Europeans or North Americans, we would certainly not be able to meet international climate goals and many ecosystems. will collapse".

Will the British give up meat?

In the UK, it's easier than ever for people to choose meat-free options with more vegan products on supermarket shelves and more menus in restaurants. But Richard Mcllwain, chief executive of the Vegetarian Society, believes more can be done.

“We want to see more vegetarian and vegan options at the top and bottom of the menu,” he said in a recent statement, before arguing that vegetarian options are appealing to flexitarian consumers.

Previous data published by YouGov indicates that most flexitarians would not go vegan but instead view meat reduction as a “conscious” and “intentional” long-term choice. .

But other reports point to a different trajectory for people reducing their meat consumption. Earlier this year, a survey by Veganuary revealed that more than a third of people who gave up animal products in January intend to go vegan for the long term.

Toni Vernelli, head of international communications at Veganuary said: “These incredible results show that Veganuary has a commitment that lasts longer than one month as participation will lead to long-term dietary changes for most of the participants.”