In a major shift towards sustainable eating, a national survey just out indicates 'meat reducer' has emerged as Australia’s most popular diet, embraced by 21% of the population. This diet is largely driven by a rising consciousness of the health and environmental benefits of consuming less meat.
Source: ID 185300047 © Lincoln Beddoe - Aussie BBQ
The survey, conducted by Toluna for Food Frontier, gathered insights from 2,000 Australians, exploring dietary preferences, reasons for dietary changes, and the influence of such choices on personal and pet diets. Respondents had a variety of 13 diets to choose from, including vegetarian and macrobiotic, with intermittent fasting and organic diets ranking second and third in popularity.
Data reveals a strong reliance on personal networks, with most diet information flowing through friends and family, especially among adherents of the top three diets.
Food Frontier CEO Dr. Simon Eassom elaborates on the findings, saying, "With growing awareness of diet impacts on climate change, we sought to understand what resonates with Australians." Health benefits, budget constraints, and environmental concerns were the leading reasons cited for reducing meat intake. Notably, 79% of Australians now abstain from meat at least one day a week, a consistency with data from three years ago.
Source: ID 72060222 © Mirko Vitali - Couple eating vegetables
The survey also highlights a significant rise in the consumption of alternative and 'free-from' foods. Plant-based milks lead this category, with 41% of Australians having tried them, and 34% using them weekly. This consumer shift extends to other dairy-free products and plant-based meats, though taste and price remain barriers to wider adoption.
Source: Food Frontier
As well, the study delves into climate change perceptions, revealing a disconnect between recognised contributors and dietary actions. While animal agriculture is acknowledged by 44% as a climate change factor, broader environmental actions like recycling are more commonly adopted.
The evolving market also affects the pet food industry, with increasing R&D investment into less meat-reliant options, reflecting a growing demand for sustainable and ethical choices.
This comprehensive survey clearly confirms a transformative phase in Australian dietary habits, driven by health, economic, and environmental motivations, signaling a broader change in food and eating paradigms for the nation.
To read the complete survey DOWN LOAD HERE.
ENDS:
Comments