As more and more people decided to change their diet drastically, the world started to celebrate the World Meat Free Day every year on 13th of June.
In 2012, United Kingdom was ranked 22nd for meat consumption per person. Each person consumed on average 85.8 kilogrammes per year. Of this amount, the highest consumed meat was poultry with 29.2 kg, followed by pork with 27.9 kg and beef with 22 kg.
These numbers have started to raise some environmental concerns, as 40% of the food grown in the world today is feed for animals. The figures are likely to increase to 60% in the next 20 years if people will keep consuming meat and dairy in large amounts.
There are numerous reasons why people should consider giving up meat and change to a more plant based diet. One of them is the damage this industry does to the natural environment. Going meat free even for a day will contribute to tons of carbon, water, and unsaturated fats savings.
Health is also another reason people should look into as consumption of red and processed meats is associated with increases in cancer mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality. A more vegetables and fruits orientated diet will boost the health and reduce cancer risks.
Giving up meat for a day is an easy task to do and can have a positive impact on health, environment, and animals. Every person that decides to do so makes a difference and are a step closer to a healthier and more balanced life style.
The World Meat Free Day campaign aims to raise awareness of the benefits of eating less meat and show that going meat free for life has multiple advantages for the environment, personal health, and animals welfare. It will result in fairer food systems and a better planet that can be enjoyed by many after us.
