For Most Americans, Plant-Based Food Consumption And Environmental Impacts Go Hand In Hand

Nevin Barich

Nevin Barich

February 21, 2020 () –

When it comes to plant-based food and its environmental impacts, many Americans want that information. They’re just not getting it.

According to a survey by Earth Day Network and the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, 51% of Americans surveyed said that they would eat more plant-based foods if they had more information about the environmental impacts of their food choices. However, 70% rarely or never talked about this issue with friends or family. Nearly two-thirds of the Americans surveyed reported having never been asked to eat more plant-based foods, and more than half rarely or never heard about the topic in the media.

However, the report found more than half of Americans are willing to eat more vegetables and plant-based alternatives and/or less red meat. Additionally, consumers are already changing their diets and purchasing habits in favor of plant-based foods. 

"Many American consumers are interested in eating a more healthy and climate-friendly diet," said Anthony Leiserowitz of Yale University. "However, many simply don't know yet which products are better or worse — a huge communication opportunity for food producers, distributors and sellers."

Other results from the survey:

---Although 4% of Americans self-identified as vegan or vegetarian, 20% chose plant-based dairy alternatives about two-to-five times a week or more often.

---Forty-nine percent of Americans thought a meal with a plant-based main course is more expensive than a meal with a meat-based main course. 

---Sixty-three percent of Americans would eat more plant-based foods if they cost less than meat options, while 67% would eat them if they tasted better.

Nevin Barich is the Food and Beverage Analyst for Industry Intelligence, which can help YOU better address your own industry challenges. We invite you to come take a look at our service.Call us today at 310-553-0008 and we’ll schedule you for a 15-minute demo.

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