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 food options gained considerable traction in the previous decade, driven by growing awareness of the negative impacts associated with high meat consumption.

During the 2010s, public opinion polls indicated a widespread desire to cut back on meat intake. Institutions such as schools and hospitals adopted Meatless Monday initiatives, and celebrity endorsements further popularized veganism. Venture capital firms invested heavily in plant-based meat alternatives, anticipating a major shift in the food industry. Companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat emerged as key players, developing products designed to mimic the taste and texture of traditional meat.

The motivations behind this trend were multifaceted. Health concerns related to the average American's annual consumption of over 200 pounds of meat played a significant role. Investigative reports exposing the conditions of factory farms raised ethical concerns about animal cruelty. 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 somewhat, the underlying reasons for doing so remain relevant. The development of innovative plant-based products, such as plant-based salmon filets from Toronto startup New School Foods, offers consumers more appealing and sustainable alternatives. These advancements in food technology make it easier for individuals to reduce their reliance on animal products without sacrificing taste or nutritional value.