The Controversial '84% of Vegans Quitting' Statistic
For nearly a decade, the statistic claiming that 84% of vegans and vegetarians return to eating meat has dominated discussions about plant-based retention. This figure comes from a 2014 study by Faunalytics (formerly the Humane Research Council) and is often presented without its crucial context. The study surveyed over 11,000 U.S. adults and found that while only 2% were current vegetarians/vegans, a surprising 10% were former ones. A key detail is that many of these 'lapsed' individuals, particularly the vegetarians, spent less than a year on their plant-based diet before reverting. Some critics argue that an individual who only adheres to a diet for a few months may not have fully adopted the ethical framework of veganism, making the term 'ex-vegan' potentially misleading in these cases. The Vegan Society has also countered negative media portrayals, stating that the market is simply 'settling down' after a period of rapid growth. Other, longer-term studies on self-identified vegans and vegetarians have shown much higher retention rates, with one follow-up on a long-running UK study finding that 73% were still following their diet after 20 years.
Primary Reasons Vegans Revert to Meat
The decision to abandon a vegan diet is rarely due to a single issue. Faunalytics' research and other accounts point to a combination of health concerns, social pressures, convenience, and cravings.
1. Health and Nutritional Challenges
Many ex-vegans cite health problems as the main reason for their change in diet. Common complaints include nutrient deficiencies, low energy levels, and persistent hunger. While a well-planned vegan diet can provide all necessary nutrients, inadequate research and meal planning can lead to issues. Some individuals may not properly replace nutrients typically found in animal products, such as Vitamin B12, iron, and certain proteins. For others, a poorly executed vegan diet can become overly reliant on processed convenience foods, which can also lead to nutrient imbalances and weight issues. The perception that a plant-based diet is inherently healthier, without understanding how to balance it, often leads to disappointment and a return to familiar eating habits.
2. Social Pressure and Isolation
The social aspect of eating is a powerful force, and many find it difficult to maintain a strict vegan diet when surrounded by non-vegans. Social gatherings, family dinners, and dining out can create feelings of being an 'outcast' or a burden. This feeling of isolation is a significant factor, with Faunalytics reporting that 63% of lapsed vegetarians/vegans disliked that their diet made them stand out from the crowd. The constant need to explain and justify one's food choices can become exhausting, making it easier to simply conform to social norms.
3. Convenience and Cost
For many, a vegan lifestyle simply becomes too difficult to maintain logistically. This is especially true for those with limited access to specialty products or who travel frequently. The time and effort required for meal prep, label reading, and finding suitable dining options can be overwhelming. While staple plant-based foods like beans and rice are cheap, a reliance on expensive meat and dairy alternatives can make the diet financially unsustainable for some. These practical difficulties often outweigh the initial motivations for changing their diet.
4. Lingering Cravings and Loss of Motivation
Despite ethical or health motivations, some individuals find that they continue to experience powerful cravings for meat and other animal products. While sometimes linked to a poorly-balanced diet, these cravings can also simply be a mental or psychological hurdle. Over time, the initial motivation for going vegan can fade, and without a strong support system or reinforcement, the temptation to give in to these cravings becomes too strong, leading to a dietary shift.
Comparative Study Findings: Retention Rates
| Study | Sample Size | Year | Duration | Key Finding | Retention Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Faunalytics (formerly Humane Research Council) | ~11,000 US Adults | 2014 | Lifetime retrospective | 84% of ex-vegans/vegetarians reverted; many quit within 1 year. | ~16% (among ex-vegans/vegetarians) |
| Psychology Today (Follow-up to Faunalytics) | ~11,000 US Adults | 2014 | Lifetime retrospective | Found vegans more likely to stick with it than vegetarians. | ~30% (among ex-vegans) |
| EPIC-Oxford Study | N/A | 2019 (Reported) | 20 years | Found that 73% of self-identified vegans/vegetarians were still following their diet after 20 years. | 73% (among long-term adherents) |
Preventing Reversion to Meat
For those who wish to maintain a plant-based diet, understanding and addressing these challenges is key. Building a strong support network, researching proper nutrition, and embracing a wider variety of plant-based foods can significantly improve the chances of long-term success. Many successful vegans learn to navigate social situations and to replace cravings with nutritious, satisfying alternatives. For more in-depth research on effective animal advocacy and retention, Faunalytics offers valuable resources.
Conclusion
While the '84% failure rate' statistic is attention-grabbing, it's not a complete picture of vegan retention. The data includes many individuals who made a brief, poorly planned attempt at vegetarianism or veganism. For those who are committed and well-informed, the success rate is much higher. The challenges of health, social pressure, and convenience are real, but they can be overcome with proper planning, knowledge, and community support. Ultimately, the number of vegans who turn back to meat is influenced by a complex interplay of personal commitment, nutritional understanding, and external factors.
