A new study proposes a surprising goal for meat consumption: only 255 grams per week. The recommendation is from the Technical University of Denmark, which analyzed the environmental impacts of animal protein production.
According to the study of the Technical University of Denmark, this amount represents approximately two chicken breasts or a pork bifana. Above this value, researchers consider that one enters an unsustainable consumer zone, harmful to the planet.
According to the same source, the study examined the effects of meat production on climate, water use and soil use. The main author, Caroline H. Gebara, explained that even amounts considered moderate of red meat already exceed the boundaries that the planet can stand.
Gebara said that, based on the simulations performed, “even moderate amounts of red meat in the diet are incompatible with what the planet can regenerate from resources, based on the environmental factors we analyzed in the study.”
White meat with lower environmental impact
Despite severe conclusions regarding red meat, the study indicates that white meat, such as chicken or pig, can be integrated into a sustainable diet, provided in small quantities.
According to the same source, the researcher adds that “it is possible to consume cheese, eggs, fish and white meat, provided that the rest of the diet is relatively healthy and sustainable.”
The report also presents a set of alternatives to the traditional meat -centered diet. Diets based on vegetables, fishing or vegan have significantly lower environmental impacts.
According to the same study, these options are best suited to global sustainability goals, allowing a more balanced management of the planet’s resources.
Overall consumption above Earth’s ability
The Four Paws international organization has also recently warned of the impacts of excessive meat consumption. According to this NGO, the amount of meat currently consumed worldwide is double what the planet can withstand without serious damage.
The Four Paws website writes that this excess contributes to the worsening problems such as greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and loss of biodiversity.
We recommend:
The CEO of Josef Pfabigan commented that “we are biting more than we can chew. Global meat consumption is consuming the planet, causing animal and human suffering.”
These statements reinforce the growing concern between experts and international organizations about the need for change in eating patterns.
Way to a more sustainable diet
According to the same source, limit the consumption of red meat and give preference to alternative protein sources can be decisive to reduce ecological footprint.
In addition, a more vegetable -based diet can contribute to a healthier and less dependent on the intensive resources of livestock industry.
According to the study, maintaining meat intake within the weekly limit of 255 grams allows to significantly reduce environmental impacts associated with diet.
This limit represents a starting point for more balanced and environmentally conscious food transitions.
Challenges in the Food Transition
The change to diets with less meat implies, however, adaptations at cultural, economic and social level. Food production, nutritional education and access to affordable alternatives are essential factors in this transformation.
Therefore, scientific recommendations need to be accompanied by public policies that encourage sustainable production and consumption.
The study message is clear: reducing meat consumption is one of the most effective ways to decrease the environmental impact of human food. Two chicken breasts or one bifana a week may seem little, but they represent a choice with global implications.
Also read:
