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One in Three Americans Are Flexitarian

Sharon Palmer

Flexitarianism—the idea of eating more plant-based foods without entirely giving up on meat—is a growing trend. A new study into the diet choices of 2,000 Americans found that 31 percent identify as flexitarian, while another 13 percent subscribe to a specific eating lifestyle such as veganism, vegetarianism, or paleo.

The study was conducted by OnePoll, in conjunction with So Delicious Dairy Free, which examined the eating habits of 2,000 Americans, and found that nearly three in five (59 percent) eat plant-based meals at least once a day. The average American studied ate four meat-free meals a week. Over half (52 percent) of Americans are currently trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into their daily lives.

Americans are also open to the idea of eating more plant-based meals, per the study. In fact,18 percent have tried a vegetarian diet and five percent have tried a vegan diet. On average, Americans reported that they will attempt a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle six times in their lifetime, with the average stretch being 37 days of strict plant-based meals. Survey respondents, on average, consumed two vegan meals, two pescatarian meals, three vegetarian, three paleo, three gluten-free, and three dairy-free meals in a typical week.

Seven in 10 Americans say that they believe a flexitarian lifestyle allows them the ability to eat healthier without feeling like they are depriving themselves of the foods that they love. Other reasons Americans admit to being a flexitarian is they believe it helps them feel better physically and mentally, and sets a good example for their kids. Respondents did have a few barriers that stopped them from eating even more plant-based meals, such as taste, not being satisfied, the food quality/texture, and not enough variety to choose from. Although three in 10 Americans don’t think they could go vegan full-time, they do see themselves eating a few plant-based meals a week. Forty-two percent of Americans say they are willing to cut meat out of their diet and another 46 percent are willing to cut dairy. Forty-six percent of Americans are willing to cut out fish, while over half (52 percent) say they can live without carbohydrates biggest contributor, bread. While 73 percent of Americans admit to eating a variety of different foods, 13 percent may still eat a variety of foods but consciously cut out certain things like meat, dairy, and pork- among others.

In the last five years, survey respondents say they have really reduced the amount of meat and dairy they consume. In fact, 37 percent say they have reduced how much meat they consume while another 33 percent say they have reduced the amount of dairy they eat.

Top 5 Reasons Reported To Be A Flexitarian

To eat healthier without feeling I am depriving myself     70%

To feel better physically                                                       69%

To feel better mentally                                                         57%

To lose weight                                                                     46%

To set a good example for my children/others                    27%

 

Top 4 Main Reasons Reported For Eating More Plant-Based Meals

Improve overall health and nutrition                      76%

Weight management                                             51%

For animal welfare reasons                                   24%

Environmental concerns                                        23%

This blog post was adapted by a report in the New York Post here.

If you are interested in eating a flexitarian, plant-based diet, check out:

My 5 Tips for Eating a Plant-Based Diet
Top 5 Tips for Greening Your Plate
5 Tips for Plant-Powering Your Eating Style

Image: Three Sisters Chili, Sharon Palmer, MSFS, RDN

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