Awareness for the environment, climate change and proper nutrition has penetrated deep among young people. Fifty-five percent of college students say they have tried plant-based meat alternatives.
They commented that this choice was due to the enjoyment of new foods, curiosity about products and concern for the environment, according to a new study in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, published by Elsevier. This recent research joins the Spanish debate on whether we should reduce meat consumption and increase plant foods.
55% prefer meat alternatives
For several decades, there has been a steady growth in consumer concerns about the environmental sustainability of the global food supply, the ethics of animal welfare, and the human health consequences of eating red meat. The researchers studied students enrolled at Iowa State University, ages 18-30, to learn about the importance of plant-based alternatives to meat consumption; describe the relationships between demographics, attitudes of concern for the environment and consumption; and determining variables statistically related to testing plant-based meat alternatives.
Among the 1,400 students surveyed, the scientists found that more than half had tried a plant-based meat alternative. People who ate plant-based products were more environmentally conscious, more likely to be vegetarians, and more likely to be students from outside their country.
In assessing why there is a correlation between students from other states and a willingness to try plant-based meat alternatives, the author suggests considering where the study is being conducted. ” This university in the state is known for its degree programs in agriculture. Iowa is also a major producer of hogs and chickens, as well as a major producer of livestock feed. So that might add some nuance to that. result “.
College students enjoy new foods
The main motivation of the university students surveyed when trying plant-based meat alternatives also included enjoying and trying new foods, being curious about these products, thinking they would taste good, and receiving support from family and friends. People who did not consume meat alternatives had a less favorable opinion of plant-based foods.
” There are many reasons why people choose the foods they eat, but we found that having a more positive attitude about the environment was associated with having tried a plant-based meat alternative on college students ,” said the study author. . This study could indicate the step towards a new diet in the future, where vegetables and fruits would be prevalent throughout the world. It is interesting to know that future generations are changing their consumption habits, compared to today’s adults who are quite reluctant.
