Understanding What percentage of vegetarians eventually go back to eating meat?

According to a 2014 study by Faunalytics (formerly the Humane Research Council), a staggering 84% of individuals who became vegetarian or vegan eventually revert to eating meat, offering a compelling insight into what percentage of vegetarians eventually go back to eating meat. The research highlights the often complex and multifaceted reasons behind this dietary change, which extend far beyond a simple lack of willpower.

Quick Summary

This article explores the compelling reasons behind high reversion rates among plant-based eaters. It details factors such as social pressure, nutritional challenges, and the impact of initial motivation on long-term adherence. It also examines strategies that can help individuals successfully maintain a plant-based diet over time.

Key Points

• High Reversion Rate: A 2014 Faunalytics study found that 84% of vegetarians and vegans revert to eating meat, with over half doing so within a year.

• Single Motivation is Riskier: Individuals with a single, often health-focused, motivation are more likely to return to meat compared to those with multiple reasons, including ethical and environmental concerns.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Concerns over insufficient intake of critical nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and protein are a key factor for returning to meat.

• Social Pressure Plays a Role: Navigating social gatherings and facing judgment from others can make adherence difficult and contribute to reversion.

• Gradual Transition is Recommended: An abrupt, all-or-nothing approach is often less successful than a slower, more planned transition to a plant-based diet.

• Social Support is Crucial: Being part of a vegetarian or vegan community can provide crucial support and increase the likelihood of sticking with the diet.

• Cravings and Taste Matter: The appeal of meat's taste and powerful cravings can be a significant challenge, even for long-term adherents.

The High Rate of Reversion

For many, the idea of adopting a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle is driven by strong ethical, environmental, or health motivations. However, maintaining this commitment proves difficult for a large number of people. The Faunalytics study, which surveyed over 11,000 adults in the U.S., provided some of the most widely cited data on diet reversion. The findings showed a high rate of reversion, particularly within the first year. Over half of the ex-vegetarians and vegans in the study began eating meat again within 12 months, with a third of participants lasting less than three months. This trend suggests that while initial motivation can be powerful, it is often not enough to sustain the dietary change long-term without significant preparation and support.

Factors Contributing to Reversion

Understanding the reasons for returning to a meat-inclusive diet is crucial for anyone considering a plant-based lifestyle. Several key factors were identified in research and anecdotal reports:

• Nutritional Concerns: Many former vegetarians cited health problems and the difficulty of obtaining necessary nutrients as the primary reason for their change. Common deficiencies can include vitamin B12, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, which require careful planning to source adequately from plant-based foods.
• Social Challenges: Navigating social situations, such as dining out, family gatherings, and holidays, was a significant hurdle. A 2019 study found that a major reason for violating a diet was to make a social situation flow more smoothly. Many former vegetarians disliked feeling like they stood out from the crowd.
• Cravings and Taste: For some, irresistible cravings for meat proved too powerful to ignore. The smell of cooking meat or the memory of its taste could trigger a return to old eating habits.
• Unrealistic Expectations: An abrupt, 'all-or-nothing' approach was often a predictor of reversion. Those who made a sudden switch were more likely to fail than those who transitioned gradually.
• Single-Source Motivation: Participants in the Faunalytics study who cited only one reason (most often health) for their initial switch were more likely to revert. In contrast, those with multiple motivations (health, animal welfare, environment) had higher rates of adherence.

Comparison of Adherence Factors: Successful vs. Reverting Vegetarians

Feature	Reverting Vegetarians	Adhering Vegetarians
Initial Motivation	Often single-factor, such as for personal health reasons only.	Multi-factored, encompassing health, ethics, and environment.
Dietary Transition	Tended to be abrupt, giving up meat within days or weeks.	Often gradual, with a more considered and planned approach.
Social Integration	Faced difficulty fitting in and disliked feeling different from the crowd.	Were more likely to be involved in vegetarian/vegan social groups and communities.
Nutritional Awareness	Inadequate planning led to nutritional deficiencies (e.g., B12, iron).	Proactively planned meals to ensure adequate nutrient intake, often using supplements.
Dietary Identity	Did not see vegetarianism as a core part of their personal identity.	Stronger identification with the diet as part of their personal values.

Strategies for Maintaining a Plant-Based Diet

Successful, long-term adherence to a plant-based diet requires more than just good intentions. By addressing the common pitfalls, individuals can significantly increase their chances of success:

1. Educate Yourself Thoroughly: Understand the nutritional requirements of a plant-based diet. Learn about reliable plant sources for essential nutrients like protein, iron, and calcium. Consult resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or talk to a registered dietitian.
2. Focus on Nutrient Planning: Pay careful attention to nutrients that are less bioavailable or absent in plants. A vitamin B12 supplement is often recommended, and foods fortified with B12 and Vitamin D can help prevent deficiencies. Combine iron-rich plant foods with Vitamin C to enhance absorption.
3. Embrace a Gradual Transition: Instead of going cold turkey, consider a gradual approach. Start with one meat-free day a week, then two, before committing fully. This allows time to adjust to new cooking methods and flavors.
4. Build a Social Support Network: Connect with other vegetarians or vegans, either through online communities or local groups. This can provide a valuable support system, a source of new recipes, and help mitigate the feeling of social isolation.
5. Explore a Wide Range of Foods: Diversify your diet with a variety of whole foods, including legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. This helps ensure a balanced intake of all essential amino acids and prevents reliance on unhealthy, ultra-processed meat alternatives.
6. Seek Out Resources: Utilize the wealth of online resources, cookbooks, and meal planning services tailored to plant-based diets. This can simplify meal preparation and introduce new and exciting recipes. Faunalytics provides a range of research to help advocates for a plant-based diet better understand motivations and challenges: https://faunalytics.org/.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities of Diet Adherence

The statistic that a high percentage of vegetarians eventually go back to eating meat is a wake-up call for those considering the change. However, it is not a condemnation of the diet itself, but rather a reflection of the challenges involved in a major lifestyle shift within a society where meat consumption is the norm. The data highlights that success is not just about willpower, but also about proper planning, strong and varied motivations, and a robust support system. By being proactive in addressing nutritional needs and social hurdles, aspiring and current vegetarians can navigate these challenges effectively and significantly increase their chances of long-term adherence. Ultimately, the decision to remain plant-based is a personal journey, informed by individual health, ethics, and dedication to a new way of eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary statistic cited for vegetarians returning to meat?

According to a large 2014 study by Faunalytics, a research organization focused on animal advocacy, 84% of self-identifying vegetarians and vegans eventually returned to eating meat.

Why do most vegetarians eventually go back to eating meat?

Primary reasons include health concerns and nutritional deficiencies (like B12 and iron), social pressures, irresistible cravings for meat, and an initial abrupt change to the diet.

Is it more difficult for vegetarians or vegans to adhere to their diet?

Research suggests that vegans might be slightly less likely to revert than vegetarians, though the reversion rates for both groups are high. The reasons for reversion are similar across both dietary patterns.

How soon do most people revert to eating meat after going vegetarian?

A significant number of reversions happen quickly. The 2014 Faunalytics study found that about one-third of participants lasted three months or less, and over half reverted within the first year.

What impact does social pressure have on maintaining a vegetarian diet?

Social challenges, such as feeling different from the crowd at social events or dealing with unsupportive partners, are significant factors leading to reversion.

Are there strategies to help maintain a vegetarian diet long-term?

Yes, strategies include adopting a gradual transition, seeking support from vegetarian communities, having multiple motivations for the change, and carefully planning meals to address nutritional needs.

What nutritional deficiencies should vegetarians be aware of?

Key nutrients that require attention in a plant-based diet include vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. Proper meal planning or supplementation is often necessary to avoid deficiencies.