Health cited as key factor in one in four Brits reducing red meat consumption

New research has revealed that health benefits are the main reason why almost a quarter of Brits want to cut back on red meat this year.

According to new YouGov Consumer Research, 24 per cent aim to eat less red meat next year (27 per cent among meat eaters), with improving personal health the main motivation for half of those looking to cut back (50 per cent). Women, those aged over 55 and those of higher social classes, are most likely to look at cutting back.

One third (35 per cent) support Government involvement in getting people to eat less meat, 29 per cent neither support nor oppose and a third (33 per cent) oppose. By contrast, people are considerably more supportive of Government intervention to change behaviour around people’s health. For example, two thirds (67 per cent) support the government making diet recommendations to reduce obesity, with just one in eight (13 per cent) opposing the idea.

Commenting on the research, James Mundell, Director of Consumer Research at YouGov, explained: “It’s been proven that a worldwide reduction of mass red meat consumption would have a positive impact on the environment, as well as personal health benefits, so it’s no surprise that a quarter are considering changing their diet next year. However the fact that more oppose government intervention to environmentally beneficial changes than oppose intervention to health policies suggests the environment isn’t such a major factor for those considering change. Moreover, even when consumers have good intentions, whether they will actually make these changes is another matter.”