Reduction tips

You can still have an impact by making
smart changes

While a small reduction in the amount of meat you eat over the week might go largely unnoticed, the effects on your carbon footprint, your wallet and even your health won’t take long to make a difference. You don’t have to make huge changes all at once, gradual small changes can still have an impact.

Meat reduction tips to get you started

Meatless Mondays

Meatless Mondays is a global movement that encourages people to reduce meat in their diet for their health and the health of the planet. You can learn more about it here:

Think about lower impact meats and fish

Not all animals have the same impact on GHG emissions. Consider swapping red meat for pork, poultry or sustainable fish which have less than half the carbon footprint of red meat and are just as tasty. Many meat replacements are now available, and, in some recipes, it is hard to tell the difference. Search your supermarket shelves and try some of the many options on offer.

Swap your dairy

Dairy products, milk, cream, cheese and butter, because they come mainly from cows have a similar impact to meat on our carbon footprint. These are a key source of calcium (needed for our bones, teeth and nails) in the UK, but plant alternatives are available, and they often contain added calcium. A wide variety of alternative non-dairy products are now available on our supermarket shelves. They are different from dairy, but some are very tasty. Why not give them a try?

Considering going further?

It’s possible to get everything you need from a diet that is low in or free from animal products, and it can even have health benefits, particularly for those watching their cholesterol. However, it’s important to know how to get all the nutrients you need before making any big dietary changes. If you’re considering a more drastic reduction in meat, fish and dairy, ensure you have read up on alternative nutrition sources before you begin and take it step by step. It may also be wise to consult your doctor if you have current health concerns that may be affected by a big change in your diet.