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AIBU?

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Original poster

How much meat do you eat?

379 replies

lanya · 16/05/2024 16:01

Recently I've noticed in my circles that pretty much everyone is cutting back on meat due to environmental/ climate reasons.

Most people I know aren't vegetarian, but are more aware/ more careful about the amount they eat, e.g. only once or twice per week.

I am wondering whether this is the case generally across the UK, or if most people are carrying on as normal?

YABU: We are eating the same amount of meat as we always have.
YANBU: We have reduced our meat intake over the last few years for climate reasons.

Disclaimer: This isn't any kind of brag or meant to be condescending - I'm just curious.

OP posts:
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Clearinguptheclutter · 16/05/2024 16:17

Well my dh and eldest ds went vegetarian 5 years ago. For 100% climate reasons.

I’m not V so I’ve kind of gone about 70% V by default and I generally get on fine with it and am pro-veggie even though I don’t consider myself one.

DH and DS like the fake meats though which I can’t stand. I genuinely like most other V food. Sandwiches are by far the hardest. I don’t like egg so continue to buy salmon and chicken for sandwiches. If it wasn’t for sandwich fillings I’d probably not buy any meat at all.

it’s a pain when we go abroad though.

MartinsSpareCalculator · 16/05/2024 16:17

Its much more difficult to get the amount of protein I need/want without eating meat and fish. I try not to consume UPFs, and would need to eat a much greater volume of food without meat.

KnittedCardi · 16/05/2024 16:17

Furthermore, numerous other plant-based foods are rich in protein. Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and various types of beans not only pack a substantial protein punch but are also rich in fiber and other nutrients. Tofu, tempeh, and edamame, all derived from soybeans, are among the richest plant-based protein sources and can easily rival the protein content in meats. Seeds and nuts, along with their butters, are not only versatile and delicious but also excellent protein sources

All very laudable, but none grown in the UK, therefore not seasonable nor sustainable. We need to move towards a more homegrown diet, and that includes meat, as much of the land in the UK is only suitable for grazing.

SingleSexSafeSpace · 16/05/2024 16:16

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Rickrolypoly · 16/05/2024 16:16

Probably every day.

SingleSexSafeSpace · 16/05/2024 16:16

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G123456789 · 16/05/2024 16:15

BiologicsBeforeIdeology · 16/05/2024 16:06

Adopting a vegan lifestyle isn’t just about diet; it’s about taking a stand against the cruelty inflicted on animals in the food industry. It’s heartbreaking to learn about the conditions animals endure—overcrowded, unnatural living spaces, and often cruel handling. These practices are not only unethical but completely unnecessary. As a human, I believe in defending the vulnerable and speaking out against injustice, and the treatment of animals in much of the food industry is just that. By choosing veganism, I refuse to support such despicable practices. It’s a way to demand better treatment for animals and promote a kinder industry.

Ok, so what happens to pigs, cows, sheep, chickens etc when every one goes vegan? Meat doesn't have to be cruel. I'm sat in my lounge with a chicken that we rescued two years ago from a battery farm (4 original girls, 3 have died and it would be very unfair on Maggie to get anymore she would be bullied). She's preening day in my chair, I'm on the sofa about to check for eggs. I eat organic or farm assured meat and eggs from my girls

ToBeOrNotToBee · 16/05/2024 16:14

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Thanks but I'll trust the nutrition advice I have received from my dietician and endocrinologist.

BiologicsBeforeIdeology · 16/05/2024 16:13

thanKyouaIMee · 16/05/2024 16:07

All meals contain some form of meat in this household!

I've not noticed anyone cutting back on meat in my circles - we've all been hosting roasts / bbqs / going for meals (which all include meat!).

We might actually be eating more meat now as I've been upping my protein intake and trying to have less takeaways when I think about it.

As a woman raised in a culture where meat is the centerpiece of every meal, I find it increasingly bizarre how deeply ingrained this norm is, despite the glaring drawbacks. It's proven that high meat consumption can lead to health issues, strain our finances, and, undeniably, cause tremendous suffering to animals. Shifting away from this tradition isn’t just a personal health choice; it’s a moral and economical imperative. Why do we cling to a habit that harms so much? It’s time we rethink our norms and embrace alternatives that are better for our health, our wallets, and our conscience.

Original poster
lanya · 16/05/2024 16:12

Mothership4two · 16/05/2024 16:10

Most people who you've noticed have recently changed will probably be doing it mainly for the cost of it, I would imagine. My primary reason is my family's health - with environmental impact a very close second, then animal welfare and the cost of it. We now have at least two vegetarian dinners a week and one fish dish. I've been veggie for 35 years, so doesn't apply to me.

Edited

Yes you're probably right re: the cost of living.

I'm quite interested in how many people are actively thinking about climate in their food choices.

It seems to be very much on the radar of most people I know, but most of us move in bubbles in our own social circles don't we?

OP posts:
Mothership4two · 16/05/2024 16:10

Most people who you've noticed have recently changed will probably be doing it mainly for the cost of it, I would imagine. My primary reason is my family's health - with environmental impact a very close second, then animal welfare and the cost of it. We now have at least two vegetarian dinners a week and one fish dish. I've been veggie for 35 years, so doesn't apply to me.

SingleSexSafeSpace · 16/05/2024 16:09

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Meadowfinch · 16/05/2024 16:07

5 suppers a week. I supper is fish and 1 supper is veggie.
Breakfasts & Lunches are normally veggie or with fish (sardines, crab sticks, mussels).

But I buy better quality meat. Almost no beef but venison, lamb & duck instead.

ToBeOrNotToBee · 16/05/2024 16:07

I've had to increase meat as I've been diagnosed with a protein deficiency.

So, doubled up on the amount of meat I'd normally eat.

thanKyouaIMee · 16/05/2024 16:07

All meals contain some form of meat in this household!

I've not noticed anyone cutting back on meat in my circles - we've all been hosting roasts / bbqs / going for meals (which all include meat!).

We might actually be eating more meat now as I've been upping my protein intake and trying to have less takeaways when I think about it.

muddyford · 16/05/2024 16:07

Reduced it a bit but nothing to do with climate, more cost. Had lasagne for supper yesterday, roast chicken tonight. Probably fish tomorrow, but definitely meat on Sunday and probably sausages on Saturday.

BiologicsBeforeIdeology · 16/05/2024 16:06

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Absolutely I agree

BiologicsBeforeIdeology · 16/05/2024 16:06

OldTinHat · 16/05/2024 16:04

I don't eat any meat. It's too expensive, especially for one person.

hear hear!

BiologicsBeforeIdeology · 16/05/2024 16:06

Adopting a vegan lifestyle isn’t just about diet; it’s about taking a stand against the cruelty inflicted on animals in the food industry. It’s heartbreaking to learn about the conditions animals endure—overcrowded, unnatural living spaces, and often cruel handling. These practices are not only unethical but completely unnecessary. As a human, I believe in defending the vulnerable and speaking out against injustice, and the treatment of animals in much of the food industry is just that. By choosing veganism, I refuse to support such despicable practices. It’s a way to demand better treatment for animals and promote a kinder industry.

Original poster
lanya · 16/05/2024 16:05

Sorry I didn't think to put health/ finance reasons in my OP - but those are very valid reasons as well!

OP posts:
Revelatio · 16/05/2024 16:05

I don’t think it’s just climate, it’s cost, health etc. I prefer to buy less, but spend the money on organic, free range meat instead.

OneTC · 16/05/2024 16:05

Most meals contain meat for me

OldTinHat · 16/05/2024 16:04

I don't eat any meat. It's too expensive, especially for one person.

SingleSexSafeSpace · 16/05/2024 16:04

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Strawberrycheesecake7 · 16/05/2024 16:04

None I’ve been a vegetarian for 9 years.

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