UK Public Says Cutting Meat and Dairy Would Boost Food Security

A new survey finds 72 percent of UK respondents are concerned about food security, with 69 percent saying they would reduce meat and dairy consumption to address it, signaling strong public support for plant-forward shifts.

A new survey shows that most people in the UK would be willing to cut their meat and dairy consumption to improve food security. The poll, carried out by Attest on behalf of The Vegan Society, found that 72 percent of UK adults are concerned about the state of food security in the country. The survey, part of a research report titled “How Can Plant-Based Diets Support Global Food Security?”, reveals that 69 percent of respondents would reduce their intake of animal products to help make the food system more secure. More than half, 51 percent, support government policies to transition away from livestock farming and towards plant-based proteins. Additionally, 82 percent believe securing a sustainable food supply should be a top priority for the government. Claire Ogley, head of campaigns, policy, and research at The Vegan Society, said the findings show that people are ready to shift towards plant-based diets when presented with the facts. She stressed that government support is needed to help people transition to healthy plant-based foods such as vegetables, pulses, legumes, fruit, nuts, seeds, and wholegrains. Ogley called for food policy to prioritise promoting these options and ensuring everyone can access, afford, and know how to cook them. The Vegan Society’s report highlights that redirecting crops and land currently used for animal farming to direct human consumption would make the food system more efficient and sustainable. Ogley described animal farming as inefficient, environmentally destructive, and dependent on imported feed and fertiliser, a vulnerability exposed in recent years. She stated that a transition to a plant-based food system is a key part of the solution to global and national food security challenges. The Vegan Society supports the Ten Point Plan for Plant-Rich Diets, which proposes integrated measures to increase demand for and supply of domestically produced plant-based foods. The plan aims to build a more resilient and secure food system by shifting focus to plant-based options.

Read source: Plant Based News