The idea of helping the environment through plant-based sounds excellent, but it’s not a lifestyle everyone is comfortable making. Cue 2022’s latest food wave, reducetarianism, which recognizes that there is no one size fits all approach to plant-based eating. So instead of going full-on plant-based, people are reducing their meat, seafood, dairy, and egg intake. 

Part-Time Vegan

During the pandemic, home cooking increased, and research found that many were choosing to cook healthier plant-forward diets. Nearly 30% of people are still eating more fresh produce than before the pandemic, but that does not mean they have gone full vegetarian. Instead, these eaters consciously reduce their meat consumption, like eating meat only on certain days of the week or reserving it for special occasions. 

Choosing to become a reducetarian does not have strict rules; it simply means cutting down on meat, seafood, dairy, and eggs. For some, this means participating in Meatless Mondays, eating one plant-based meal daily, or being meat-free during the working week. There is no black and white or right and wrong. This semi-vegetarian diet is about making the right choices for you! 

Planeteers Unite

While eating more plant-based can have many health benefits; many are choosing a way to reduce their carbon footprint. With an emphasis on sustainability, reducetarians are focusing on quality over quantity. It is reported that almost 70% of Americans are uncomfortable with how animals are raised in the food industry. So, when choosing to consume meat, dairy, and eggs, they are looking for the highest quality and ethically raised products in their price range. 

Ba Da Ba Ba Ba Plant-Based at the Drive-Thru

Choosing to eat plant-based has become commonplace and is no longer regarded as something your weird aunt and uncle that drive a VW van only do. From Impossible Whoppers to McPlant Burgers, fast food menus have added plant-based food options to cater to a broader audience. While there are many vegetarian and vegan-focused restaurants nationwide, traditional restaurants incorporating a wider range of plant-based options can see a lot of success. Eating is a communal activity; it’s a time to connect with your family and friends. Dining away from home is an opportunity to splurge, and a restaurant that caters to a broader range of diets is the perfect option for reducetarians. 

To Plant-Based and Beyond

While health, animal welfare, and the environment are all driving factors, inflation is also a player in the game. With the rising cost of food, consumers are gravitating towards legumes, grains, and produce to create less expensive and healthier meals. The Reducetarian diet is perfect for those looking to test the waters of eating more plant-based. Whether it’s choosing to switch to a dairy-free alternative in your morning latte or eating meat just once a week, there is the right plan for everyone. Are you interested in more food trends? Read more about the latest bar and restaurant trends