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Researchers estimate more than 12 million carnivores ate less pork, beef, lamb and chicken in 2019 compared with previous years – and they saved around £550 each by doing so.
And this year, more than a fifth intend to reduce their intake even further or for the first time – if not eliminate meat from their diet completely.
For 28%, saving money is one of the biggest motivations for doing so – in fact, 51% think meat is too expensive.
The research of 2,000 adults, commissioned by the well-loved vegetarian brand Linda McCartney’s, revealed that 44% believe a meat-free lifestyle is more affordable now than ever before.
Miguel Barclay, author of One Pound Meals, has teamed up with Linda McCartney’s to share his advice for going meat-free affordably.
‘There can be a real misconception around the cost of eating meat-free.
‘However, this research proves that there is actually a lot of money that could be saved by making a veggie or vegan commitment.
‘I believe in showing people how to make delicious, affordable food, and meat-free options are just the same; it doesn’t need to be expensive or fancy, to be satisfying and tasty.’
MIGUEL BARCLAY
Author of One Pound Meals
‘The New Year is the perfect time to shake up your routine and try new things, so I’ll be sharing some of my favourite meat-free recipes.
‘All of these come in under £1, to encourage more people to get behind the meat-free movement this January, whatever your budget.’
MIGUEL BARCLAY
Author of One Pound Meals
The study found those who eat meat do so four times a week on average – with one in six eating meat every day of the week.
A quarter admit they eat ‘too much’ meat, but six in 10 have been contemplating cutting back for ‘some time’. Just under half revealed they are more open now to a completely meat free diet than ever before.
Two-thirds of carnivores have tried meat-free alternative products – and more than three-quarters liked what they ate.
Around four in 10 intend to be more or completely meat-free in 2020 in order to help the planet.
44% hope this change to their diet will improve their health, while% see it as a personal challenge. 14% admit they simply don’t enjoy meat as much as they used to.
The Linda McCartney’s study, carried out through OnePoll, also found 56% think 2020 will see more people than ever before go vegetarian.
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