Americans seeking impactful New Year's resolutions may find that revisiting the trend of reducing meat consumption, as seen in the 2010s, offers significant benefits for personal health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. During that decade, a growing number of Americans expressed interest in cutting back on meat, with initiatives like Meatless Monday gaining traction in schools and hospitals, and celebrities experimenting with vegan diets, according to various polls and reports. Venture capital investments surged into plant-based meat alternatives, such as those produced by Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat, signaling a potential shift in the food industry.

The rising interest in plant-based diets stemmed from concerns about the health implications of high meat consumption, which averages over 200 pounds per person annually in the United States. Undercover investigations exposing the conditions of factory farms also raised ethical questions about animal treatment. Furthermore, the environmental impact of animal agriculture, including greenhouse gas emissions and land usage, became increasingly apparent.

While the initial enthusiasm for reducing meat consumption may have waned, the underlying reasons for considering this resolution remain relevant. Companies like New School Foods, a Toronto-based startup, are developing innovative plant-based alternatives, such as salmon filets, that aim to replicate the taste and texture of traditional meat products. These advancements offer consumers more appealing options for incorporating plant-based meals into their diets.

Kenny Torrella, a senior reporter for Vox's Future Perfect section focusing on animal welfare and the future of meat, noted that the motivations behind reducing meat consumption in the 2010s – health, animal welfare, and environmental concerns – continue to be valid reasons for making this resolution.