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How Eating Less Meat Can Benefit Your Wallet and Health

By: MerxWire

February 13, 2025 at 10:08 AM EST

The trend of vegetarianism is unstoppable. Whether for health, environmental protection or economic reasons, more and more people are reducing their meat intake. Vegetarianism has quietly become a significant trend affecting the global food market.

In the face of a volatile global economy and escalating food prices, a vegetarian diet emerges as a savvy and cost-effective choice. (Photo via Pixabay.com)

LOS ANGELES, CA (Merxwire) – As global economic pressures rise, increasing food prices have led many to reconsider their dietary choices. Research suggests that a vegetarian diet benefits health and significantly reduces food expenses. Meat prices fluctuate more than plant-based foods such as legumes, vegetables, and grains, which are generally more affordable and stable. The growing number of flexitarians has also expanded the market for plant-based food options, allowing consumers to save money while maintaining a balanced diet.

With economic uncertainty and soaring food prices worldwide, many households are searching for more cost-effective dietary solutions. According to the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), meat prices have increased much more than plant-based foods over the past few years. As a result, many people are reducing meat consumption and opting for more affordable and stable alternatives like legumes, grains, and vegetables, further driving the popularity of flexitarianism.

In addition to economic considerations, health factors are also why many people choose vegetarianism. According to previous studies, vegetarians are 32% less likely to be hospitalized for cardiovascular disease and 25% less likely to suffer from fatal heart disease. Reducing the intake of red and processed meat can also reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and type 2 diabetes. As more research confirms the health benefits of a plant-based diet, many people are beginning to incorporate a vegetarian diet into their daily eating habits.

The proportion of vegetarians worldwide is steadily increasing, with flexitarianism growing at an especially notable rate. Flexitarianism is a semi-vegetarian diet that is primarily plant-based but allows for occasional meat consumption. According to a report by market research firm Euromonitor International, in 2020, 42% of the global population identified as flexitarians. Among them, 54% of Generation Z (born after 1995) have reduced their consumption of meat and animal products, compared to 34% of the Baby Boomer generation (born in the 1950s).

Based on the latest statistics, the five countries with the highest percentage of vegetarians are India, Israel, Taiwan, Italy, and the United Kingdom. India has the largest vegetarian population, with an estimated 30–40% of its citizens following a plant-based diet, primarily due to religious and cultural influences. In Israel, vegetarianism has gained popularity due to health and environmental awareness, with approximately 13% of the population identifying as vegetarians. Taiwan boasts a well-developed vegetarian market with over 5,000 vegetarian restaurants, making it one of the most vegetarian-friendly countries in Asia. Italy has a long history of vegetarianism, with many traditional dishes naturally centred around plant-based ingredients. Meanwhile, in the UK, the rise of veganism has led to nearly 10% of the population adopting a vegetarian diet, with a rapidly growing market for plant-based products encouraging more people to change their eating habits.

It’s okay not to eat animal-based protein, and tofu can be considered a good source of protein in a vegetarian diet. (Photo via Pixabay.com)

As global awareness of health and environmental issues rises, vegetarianism is no longer a niche choice. It has evolved into a worldwide dietary trend, connecting millions of individuals making conscious food choices daily. This trend underscores the power of collective action and the potential for positive change on a global scale.

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How Eating Less Meat Can Benefit Your Wallet and Health

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