People in growing numbers have reduced or eliminated their meat consumption or are planning to do so for ethical, environmental and health reasons. What also is becoming increasingly apparent is the continuing rise in the cost of beef, pork and poultry. A report by the Stockholm International Water Institute stated that, “by 2050 that in order to produce food for the expected 9-billion human population, there needs to be enough water to go around if humans derive 5% of their calories from animal-based foods”. In terms of caloric consumption from meat, North Americans consume four times the world average. Something is going to have to change, and that change is happening!
It’s not all doom and gloom. According to the U.S. Dept of Agriculture, Americans have reduced their meat and poultry consumption by over 12% over the past 5 years. One of the factors affecting the reduction in consumption is, yes you guessed it, ” A new consciousness that is sweeping in” and “the rising popularity of vegetarian diets and the Meatless Monday movement” (1).
If you have read any of my previous blogs, you will probably gather that I’m not a big rules, or label kind of guy. If you are a Vegan, god love ya, if you are a Vegetarian, good on ya, or if you are entertaining reducing your meat consumption and looking at the Flexitarian lifestyle, you are in good company. After all, 50% of the population can’t be all wrong.
The biggest obstacle with all these categories of Vegan, Vegetarian, Flexitarian is where to start. May I suggest to start with making a conscious decision, and start slow. Most all of us have grown up with the idea that a meal has to have meat on the plate. Mom always knew best, you need to eat a balanced diet of protein, carbs and veg. Well, there is a new Mom in town and while she still follows the rules of protein, carbs and veg, now the protein maybe a little different. There is a whack of veggie-burger recipes to be found online, veggie burgers made with all sorts of wonderful ingredients, soya, grains, veg, pulses, and, yes, even nuts.
A balanced meal which would make your Mom proud!
Enjoy the journey.
– James West, Mr. NutBurg
(1) further info can be found here
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