3 Reasons Why Meat Reducatarianism Is Underrated

In the developed West, we could all eat less meat. It’s better for our health, our wallet, our local environment, and our planet. But here’s the thing for me. Committing to vegetarianism makes me sad. And I don’t buy into the absolutism or ethical framework of veganism. BUT! This is a classic case of letting the perfect be the enemy of the good (or turning a habit into an identity).
Reducing Meat Consumption Seriously Helps Your Wallet
Have you seen the cost of beans?!? They have skyrocketed in price to, like, $0.30 per pound. Non-meat protein is absurdly cheap. I mean, even eggs and nuts are cheap compared to beef or poultry. Replacing my daily deli meat sandwich with a bean & cheese burrito saves (I’m not even kidding here) like $40 per month. Also, I feel better.
Break Down The Switch
Here’s how I cut out ~70% of my annual meat consumption. First, I switched from morning turkey bacon to eggs + nuts. Same protein, same calories. Easy switch. Second, I swapped my deli meat sandwich to either bean burritos or peanut butter. Same protein, same calories. Easy switch. Third, I eat one or two vegetarian dinners per week. Out of the thousands of vegetarian recipes, there are a few dozen that are yummy – seriously. Indian & Middle Eastern cuisine is especially rich in amazing recipes. I’m still eating meat at meals 5 days per week…but 70% reduction is not insignificant.
Enjoy The Meat You Do Eat

Now that I’m eating less & spending less on meat, it makes more sense to explore good, high quality cuts of meat. Back in the day, “Sunday Roast” was a thing in the American South. It was special and anticipated. Meat was special. And, I’m getting all the unique nutrients that meat does have without switching to artificial supplements (or having to consume, so….soooo many lentils.)
Swap meat for one meal. It’s worthwhile.