Is The Future Vegetarian? An interview with Eloise Davies- Sasha Sofat, St Catherine’s School

Why do we actually eat meat?

We are still wired to seek out energy-dense sources of protein, such as meat. Meat is often a tasty meal that provides many of the essential nutrients that our body needs for a balanced diet, especially B12, which cannot easily be supplemented in other foods. These nutrients often can reduce the risks of developing conditions such as anemia. 

While eating meat in controlled amounts can be beneficial to the individual, its overall impact is questionable. Meat is often considered an ‘inefficient’ food source. This is because it requires more energy, water and land to produce than any other food source. Its production is also a large producer of greenhouse gas emissions and thereby plays a major role in climate change.

When talking to Eloise Davies she emphasised the need for a greener way of life; she suggested that often meat eaters are completely unaware of the impact that meat consumption will have on future generations.

Why should you adapt your lifestyle now?

While having a vegetarian diet is often considered more expensive and often low in Vitamin B12, many believe that a plant based diet is overall healthier and more sustainable. Switching to a vegetarian diet has been seen to improve energy levels, boost recovery and reduce the risks of developing heart disease. Eating carbohydrates as a main source of energy is not only cruelty free but also provides more energy than many proteins do. Eloise chose to become a vegan for multiple reasons. Her main reason was due to gaining a deeper understanding of the reality of the animal agricultural industry, as well as the environmental impacts. 

The overall impact of this lifestyle can be very beneficial. However, there is often a misconception about it being a harder lifestyle to follow. Eloise, who has been vegan for 8 years, explains that “Although many believe that it must be hard to adapt, vegan food and other items are very much readily available nowadays. To be honest I don’t really think about being vegan anymore, it’s just second nature for me now.”

While many people may feel that this change may be a step too far, Eloise expressed her view on meat substitutes stating that :Some meat and dairy substitutes are actually incredibly similar, basically identical if you put them to a taste test. All you need to do is find the right ones! However, I don’t always eat meat substitutes; some of my favourite meals are lentil bolognese, vegan moussaka as well as plenty of sweet treats.”

It is clear that for Eloise and many others becoming vegetarian or vegan was life-changing. In order to get started she suggested the possibility of participating in veganuary as there are so many benefits, but she did acknowledge that this could be hard for some due to personal circumstances Eloise emphasised that even small changes can make a difference, for example meat-free Mondays or having either lunch or dinner as a veggie meal.

(1)- figures and research from https://www.theworldcounts.com/challenges/consumption/foods-and-beverages/world-consumption-of-meat/story