Americans seeking impactful New Year's resolutions may find that revisiting the dietary trends of the 2010s, specifically reducing meat consumption, offers significant benefits for personal health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. The movement to embrace plant-based foods gained considerable traction during that decade, driven by growing awareness of the negative impacts associated with high levels of meat consumption.

Polls indicated widespread public interest in cutting back on meat, with institutions like schools and hospitals adopting initiatives such as Meatless Monday. Celebrities embraced veganism, and venture capitalists invested heavily in plant-based meat alternatives, including products from companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat. These trends reflected increasing concerns about the health consequences of the average American's annual meat intake exceeding 200 pounds.

Undercover investigations exposing the conditions of factory farms also played a role, raising ethical questions about animal treatment. Furthermore, the environmental impact of animal agriculture, including its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation, became a more prominent concern. Kenny Torrella, a senior reporter for Vox's Future Perfect section focusing on animal welfare and the future of meat, noted that these factors collectively fueled the drive to reduce meat consumption.

While the initial enthusiasm may have waned, the underlying reasons for reducing meat intake remain relevant. Companies like New School Foods are developing innovative plant-based alternatives, such as their plant-based salmon filet, aiming to provide consumers with more sustainable and ethical options. The renewed focus on reducing meat consumption reflects a growing understanding of the interconnectedness of personal health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability.