Americans seeking impactful New Year's resolutions may find that revisiting the trend of reducing meat consumption, similar to the efforts seen in the 2010s, offers significant benefits for personal health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. During the last 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. Venture capital firms also invested heavily in plant-based meat alternatives, such as those produced by Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat.

This shift was driven by concerns about the health implications of the average American's annual meat consumption exceeding 200 pounds, as well as increased awareness of factory farming practices and the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Undercover investigations revealing the cruelty within factory farms prompted public outcry, while the significant environmental footprint of animal agriculture, including greenhouse gas emissions and land usage, became a growing concern. Kenny Torrella, senior reporter for Vox's Future Perfect section, specializing in animal welfare and the future of meat, noted that these factors contributed to the widespread interest in reducing meat intake.

Plant-based alternatives have emerged as a key component of this movement. Companies like New School Foods, a Toronto-based startup, are developing innovative products such as plant-based salmon filets, aiming to replicate the taste and texture of traditional meat and fish using plant-derived ingredients. These products offer consumers a way to reduce their meat consumption without sacrificing familiar flavors and culinary experiences.

While the initial enthusiasm for reducing meat consumption may have waned somewhat in recent years, the underlying concerns remain relevant. Health organizations continue to recommend balanced diets with reduced red meat intake, and environmental advocates emphasize the importance of sustainable food systems to mitigate climate change. The availability of increasingly sophisticated plant-based alternatives provides consumers with more options for making informed choices about their diets and their impact on the planet.