Debunking the 84% Statistic
The 84% statistic, which suggests that the vast majority of vegans and vegetarians fail, originates from a 2014 Faunalytics study. While influential, the figure has been widely critiqued for its methodology and interpretation.
Key Criticisms of the Faunalytics Study:
- Conflates vegans and vegetarians: The study grouped these two distinct dietary approaches together, muddying the data. Vegans follow a more restrictive diet, which may impact adherence rates differently than vegetarianism, which includes dairy and eggs.
- Focuses on short-term attempts: A large portion of participants who lapsed did so within the first year, with many lasting less than three months. These individuals may have been 'plant-based dieters' rather than deeply committed ethical vegans.
- Relies on self-identification: Critics argue that someone who tries a diet for a few weeks may not identify as a vegan or vegetarian, even if they answered 'yes' in a survey about ever having been one.
The Oxford Studies: An Alternative Perspective
In contrast to the Faunalytics data, long-term studies from Europe suggest a significantly lower reversion rate for committed vegans. The EPIC-Oxford study tracked the dietary habits of participants over decades, providing a more robust view of long-term adherence.
EPIC-Oxford Findings:
- Lower Recidivism Rate: After five years, approximately 85% of self-identified vegans and vegetarians were still adhering to their diets. After 20 years, 73% were still following their chosen lifestyle.
- Motivations Matter: Ethical motivation for dietary change, rather than just health, is strongly correlated with long-term adherence. Those who see veganism as an ethical commitment or part of their identity are more likely to stick with it.
Why do Vegans Revert? Common Reasons Explored
For those who do revert, the reasons are often multifaceted, encompassing social, nutritional, and practical challenges.
Challenges Leading to Reversion:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A poorly planned vegan diet can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and vitamin D, potentially causing fatigue and other health issues that prompt a return to meat.
- Social Isolation: Many former vegans cite feeling excluded from social gatherings or having to navigate difficult conversations with family and friends. The feeling of being an 'outcast' can be a significant motivator for changing back.
- Inconvenience and Cost: For some, the effort of meal planning, cooking, and finding vegan options when dining out is too demanding. The perceived high cost of some premium plant-based products also presents a barrier.
- Cravings and Taste: Intense cravings for meat or dairy, or simply missing the taste of familiar foods, is a powerful driver for some individuals to abandon the diet.
- Health Concerns vs. Ethics: People who start a plant-based diet primarily for health reasons are more likely to revert than those motivated by animal ethics. If expected health benefits don't materialize, they are more likely to seek another dietary approach.
How to Overcome Challenges and Sustain Veganism
For those committed to the vegan lifestyle, there are strategies to mitigate the common challenges.
Table: Strategies for Long-Term Veganism
| Challenge | Solution | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrient Deficiencies | Proper meal planning, supplementation | Ensures adequate intake of vital nutrients like B12, iron, and Vitamin D. |
| Social Isolation | Find community, be patient with others | Engaging with like-minded people or calmly explaining your choices to family can reduce feelings of being an 'outcast'. |
| Inconvenience/Cost | Embrace whole foods, meal prep | Focusing on legumes, grains, and produce is cheaper than processed alternatives and allows for batch cooking. |
| Cravings/Taste | Recreate favorite meals with plant-based alternatives | Many delicious vegan versions of traditional dishes exist, satisfying cravings without animal products. |
| Lack of Motivation | Connect with ethical reasons, remind yourself of positive changes | Keeping a clear perspective on the reasons (animal welfare, environment) that led to the change strengthens commitment. |
The Role of Resources and Education
Access to reliable information and support can significantly impact a person's ability to maintain a vegan diet. A lack of nutritional knowledge often underpins a reversion. Education on how to balance a vegan diet, particularly regarding key nutrients, is crucial. Numerous online resources, vegan communities, and plant-based nutritionists are available to offer guidance.
Reliable resources: Sites like Vegan Food & Living offer features and articles to help new vegans, while organizations like Faunalytics produce research relevant to the vegan movement. For comprehensive nutritional advice, consult a registered dietitian.
Conclusion
While a widely quoted study suggests a high rate of reversion, more nuanced, long-term data shows that a significant percentage of committed vegans and vegetarians successfully maintain their dietary choices over time. The likelihood of an individual reverting depends heavily on their initial motivation, with ethical commitment correlating strongly with long-term success. Common hurdles such as social pressure, nutritional deficiencies, and inconvenience can be overcome with proper planning, education, and community support. The narrative of high failure rates often oversimplifies a complex journey, neglecting the experiences of those who successfully thrive on a vegan diet for years. Ultimately, sustained veganism is not about willpower alone, but about finding a holistic, informed, and supported approach to a plant-based lifestyle.
Explore more resources on plant-based living at Best Served Vegan.
