Plant-Based Meals: Introduction
Welcome to this week’s sustainability tip, where we explore the power of plant-based meals in reducing our ecological footprint. Want to make a meaningful impact? By taking small but significant steps to reduce meat consumption and incorporate more plant-based ingredients, we contribute to a sustainable future.
Every decision matters. Choosing plant-based meals over meat-heavy options adds up to significant change. Embracing plant-based eating reduces greenhouse gas emissions, conserves water resources, and minimises deforestation caused by animal agriculture.
As well as that, by implementing these changes in our lives we inspire others and become a catalyst for broader transformation. Encourage friends, family, and the community to join in. Together, our individual actions create a powerful force for positive change.
Plant-Based Meals: A History
Plant-based meals and veganism are not just modern trends; they have a rich history deeply rooted in our relationship with food. Throughout history, cultures worldwide have embraced plant-based diets. Ancient Indian traditions gave rise to vegetarianism thousands of years ago, emphasising compassion for all living beings.
Following that, in Greece, Pythagoras, the famous mathematician, advocated for a vegetarian lifestyle based on principles of balance and harmony. Fast forward to the 20th century, veganism emerged as a movement in response to industrialisation and animal exploitation. Donald Watson coined the term “vegan” in 1944, emphasising the exclusion of all animal products from one’s diet and lifestyle.
In recent years, the popularity of plant-based meals and veganism has skyrocketed. People are increasingly aware of the health benefits, environmental impact, and ethical considerations. Did you know that the rise of “Meat Free Monday” was due to a campaign during World War I when meat was scarce? Now ‘meat’ is being made from plants with the rise of the plant-based Impossible Burger which is making waves as a sustainable alternative to beef.
Curious to learn more? Join us on this journey of discovery and find out the environmental impact of eating meat. Together, we can make informed choices for a greener and more compassionate future. Keep reading to uncover the surprising truth behind our food choices.
Plant-Based Meals: Environmental Impact
When it comes to the environmental impact of eating meat, the numbers speak for themselves. Let’s delve into some eye-opening facts. Animal agriculture is responsible for a staggering 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation. Incredibly, that’s more than the emissions from all cars, planes, and ships combined.
Not only that, but methane, a potent greenhouse gas released during livestock digestion and manure decomposition, contributes significantly to this figure. The water footprint of meat production is also astounding. Producing just one kilogram of beef requires an estimated 15,000 litres of water. In contrast, producing the same amount of wheat consumes only around 1,250 litres.
Livestock farming is a leading cause of deforestation. Approximately 80% of the Amazon rainforest’s destruction is linked to cattle ranching. As well as that, the expansion of grazing land and the cultivation of feed crops for animals are major drivers of deforestation worldwide.
By adopting a plant-based diet, we can make a tangible difference. Choosing plant-based meals reduces greenhouse gas emissions, preserves water resources, and helps protect precious ecosystems.
Ready to explore sustainable dietary choices? Continue reading to discover practical tips on how to embrace a plant-based lifestyle and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Let’s take action now for the sake of our planet and future generations.
Plant-Based Meals: What To Look For
There are a few key things to consider when it comes to plant-based meals. Let’s explore what to look for when embracing this sustainable and delicious way of eating. First and foremost, opt for whole and minimally processed foods. Fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts are nutritious and provide a wide range of flavours and textures.
Variety is the spice of life! Incorporate a diverse range of plant-based ingredients to ensure you’re getting a wide array of nutrients.
Did you know that plant-based diets can provide all the essential nutrients your body needs? Furthermore, plants are rich in fibre, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that support overall health and well-being.
Plant-based meals are also kind to the planet. Producing plant-based protein requires significantly fewer resources, such as land, water, and energy, compared to animal-based protein.
Be adventurous and try out new recipes. Discover exciting flavours and experiment with different cooking techniques to keep your meals interesting and enjoyable.
Curious to learn about some of our favourite plant-based brands? Continue reading to find out about three amazing companies that are revolutionising the plant-based food market.
Plant-Based Meals: Three of Our Favourite Brands
Mindful Chef
Founded in 2015 by three school friends, fellow B Corp Mindful Chef provides meals that have the planet in mind. They support local farmers and are committed to reducing their impact on the world around them. Their award-winning, Plant-Based recipe boxes are full of fresh produce and available for delivery 7 days a week. All their meals are high in protein, gluten and dairy free and come with cooking instructions! We love their creamy chickpea curry with kale rice. If you head over to their website now, you can take advantage of a 25% discount on your first four orders!
Green Chef
When it comes to catering for different types of dietary requirements, Green Chef has you covered! Whether it’s keto, low carb or vegan or vegetarian, they have you covered! Each meal is measured out so there is no waste and their packaging is mainly recyclable. Not only that, but the company works continuously on lowering its impact and footprint and they use local farmers to supply the ingredients. We love their Smoked Tofu Earth Bowl which is so tasty you won’t even miss the meat! Green Chef is currently offering 40% off your first box and 25% off the next five!
Allplants
Another B Corp plant-based food brand is Allplants. The company supplies ready-made frozen meals that are plant-based and made to suit any taste. They minimise the amount of packaging that comes with the food and work closely with local suppliers and nutritionists. As well as that, they are the only one of our featured brands to produce an impact report. Their Sticky Teriyaki Udon Noodles are a taste to behold. Allplants are also offering a fantastic 40% discount when you place your first order!
Plant-Based Meals: That’s A Wrap
The individual actions we take in embracing plant-based meals create a ripple effect of change. Each choice we make, each plant-based meal we enjoy, contributes to a more sustainable future.
By simply incorporating three plant-based meals into your weekly diet for a year, you can achieve incredible environmental savings. Amazingly, this includes reducing approximately 600 kg of CO2 emissions, equivalent to driving from London to Egypt (5,000 km). Additionally, you save about 370,000 litres of water, comparable to leaving the shower on for 33 days. Not only that, but you will preserve nearly 1 acre of land, which could be used to plant over 1,000 trees.
So, let’s celebrate the power of our individual choices. By opting for plant-based meals, we influence others and drive the shift towards a more compassionate and environmentally friendly way of eating.
Play It Green is the best green subscription in the UK and cannot be beaten on value.
Help ensure your:
- Workforce is educated and rewarded on a weekly basis
- Green team has all the tools to move effectively to net-zero
- Business has lots of engaging marketing content
- Team is motivated and positive and has a great narrative on sustainability
- Business makes an ongoing environmental and social impact
- Profits feel great and are more likely to grow
Sign up today through the website for £5 per person per month.
