Plant-Based Diets: Why All The Hate?

People may dislike plant-based diets for a variety of reasons. Some believe that plant-based diets are too expensive, too boring, or too hard to follow. Others may be reluctant to give up meat, as they enjoy the taste, or believe that it is a good source of protein. Some people also believe that plant-based diets are unhealthy, or that they will not be able to get enough nutrients from a plant-based diet. Additionally, societal and cultural norms may play a role, as people tend to follow the majority and eating meat is still very common. Finally, some people may be unsure of where to start with a plant-based diet, or find it challenging to cook plant-based meals in addition to their other responsibilities.

It's too much work

Transitioning to a plant-based diet can be a lot of work. It requires a significant shift in eating habits and food choices, and it may involve learning new cooking skills and meal preparation techniques. Here are some reasons why some people may perceive plant-based diets as being too much work:

Time and Effort

Adopting a plant-based diet may be seen as time-consuming and requiring more effort than people are willing or able to put in. Planning and preparing meals can be challenging, especially for those with busy schedules, demanding jobs, or family commitments. It takes time to find suitable recipes, shop for ingredients, and cook plant-based meals, especially if one is used to convenient, processed, or pre-prepared food.

Learning Curve

For those unfamiliar with plant-based cooking, there can be a steep learning curve. It may involve learning new cooking techniques, understanding how to combine plant-based sources of protein and nutrients, and discovering new ingredients and flavour profiles. This can be intimidating for those who are not experienced cooks or who lack the time or motivation to learn new culinary skills.

Social and Dining Challenges

Dining out or attending social gatherings can be challenging when following a plant-based diet. Many restaurants and social events may not offer plant-based options, or the options available may be limited and unappealing. This can make it difficult to stick to a plant-based diet and may require additional planning and effort, such as calling ahead to restaurants or bringing one's own food.

Misconceptions and Lack of Knowledge

Some people may have misconceptions about plant-based diets, believing that they are restrictive, boring, or expensive. They may not know where to start or how to create tasty and satisfying plant-based meals. This lack of knowledge can be a barrier, leading people to believe that transitioning to a plant-based diet requires more effort than it actually does.

Inconvenience and Planning

Plant-based diets may be seen as inconvenient, especially for those who are used to grabbing convenient, processed, or meat-based meals. It can require more planning and preparation, such as soaking beans overnight or batch cooking and freezing meals. This extra step may be off-putting to those who are used to more convenient food options.

Cost and Accessibility

While plant-based diets can be cost-effective, some people may perceive them as more expensive due to the belief that plant-based alternatives are pricier. Additionally, the cost of purchasing new ingredients, cookbooks, or kitchen equipment may be a barrier for those on a tight budget.

It's too expensive

The perception that plant-based diets are more expensive than omnivorous diets is a common reason why people may be hesitant to adopt a plant-based diet. This perception may be influenced by the higher costs of specialty vegan products and meat substitutes, as well as the idea that fruits and vegetables are more expensive. However, it is important to consider that prepared and convenience foods are generally more expensive than cooking at home, and there are cost-effective plant-based options available.

Cost Comparison

Plant-based diets are often perceived as more expensive due to the higher costs of novel meat substitutes and the perception that fruits and vegetables are pricier. However, studies have shown that plant-based consumers, particularly vegans, tend to have lower food expenditures compared to omnivores. This is because basic plant-based staples such as pasta, rice, tofu, and beans are typically cheaper than meat. Additionally, buying ingredients in bulk and preparing meals at home can further reduce costs.

Specialty Vegan Products

Specialty vegan products, such as meat substitutes and dairy alternatives, can be more expensive than their non-vegan counterparts. These products are often highly processed and may not be necessary for a healthy plant-based diet. It is worth noting that these products are not the only option, and there are cost-effective alternatives available.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables may seem expensive, especially when compared to highly processed junk foods. However, it is important to consider the health benefits of fresh produce and the potential savings on healthcare costs in the long run. Additionally, buying in-season produce and shopping at local farmers' markets can help reduce costs.

Convenience Factor

Adopting a plant-based diet may require more time and effort in the kitchen, as it involves cooking from scratch and meal planning. This can be a barrier for those who are used to convenient and quick meal options. However, with proper planning and batch cooking, it is possible to save time and money by preparing plant-based meals at home.

Social and Cultural Factors

The perception of plant-based diets as expensive may also be influenced by social and cultural factors. Meat is often associated with luxury and status, and giving it up may be seen as a sacrifice. Additionally, social gatherings and dining out can be challenging for those on a plant-based diet, as vegan options may be limited or more expensive.

Education and Information

Lack of knowledge about plant-based diets and their benefits can also contribute to the perception of higher costs. Many people are unaware of the variety of plant-based options available and how to incorporate them into their daily lives. Educating oneself about plant-based alternatives and their potential benefits can help dispel the myth that these diets are expensive.

It's socially isolating

A plant-based diet can be isolating, especially for young people who are often socialising with friends and going out to eat. It can be hard to find plant-based meals at restaurants or when visiting friends, and this requires extra planning.

Eating out

It is true that eating out can be a challenge for those on a plant-based diet, but it is not impossible. Most restaurants nowadays have some meatless options on the menu, such as salads, soups, or pasta. It is also possible to call ahead and ask if the restaurant is willing to make substitutes.

Dinner parties

A plant-based diet does not mean excluding animal products completely. It is still possible to attend dinner parties and eat what the host offers, and it may be a good idea to give them a heads-up about your preferences in advance.

Socialising with friends

It can be difficult to be the only one in a friendship group who doesn't eat meat, especially if you are the one who is cooking. It may be isolating to have to cook separate meals for yourself while your friends eat something else.

Misconceptions

People may also feel isolated due to misconceptions about plant-based diets. For example, some people believe that a plant-based diet means becoming a vegetarian, when in fact, it is about choosing more of your foods from plant sources. This may lead to confusion and social pressure when eating with others.

Tribalism

People are social creatures and tend to follow what the majority does. This can make it difficult for those on a plant-based diet to feel included, as they may be going against the grain. It can also be challenging to find others who share the same dietary preferences, especially in certain social circles.

It's not tasty enough

It's a common misconception that plant-based diets are bland and boring. In reality, plant-based diets can be incredibly flavourful and varied. Most experts argue that eating a large variety of foods is the best way to eat healthily and get all the nutrients your body needs.

Variety is the Spice of Life

When following a plant-based diet, you can eat lots of different foods, including beans, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, pastas, noodles, rice, cereals, spices and herbs. You can also explore ethnic foods and new styles of cooking, such as Indian cuisine, which does amazing things with lentils, spinach and spice.

Meat-Free Meals

Meat-free meals can be just as tasty and satisfying as meat-based ones. For example, you could try making a breakfast wrap with scrambled egg, black beans, peppers, onions, cheese and salsa, or a Greek salad with mixed greens, tomato, olives, parsley, feta cheese, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Healthy Snacks

There are plenty of healthy snacks that fit into a plant-based diet, such as carrots, celery sticks, unsalted nuts and fruit. You can also try frozen fruits like grapes, blueberries and strawberries instead of sugary popsicles.

Dining Out

It's a myth that following a plant-based diet means you can't eat at restaurants anymore. Almost all restaurants nowadays have some meatless choices on the menu, like salads, soups or pastas.

Health Benefits

Research has linked plant-based diets to lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers, compared with diets high in meat and other animal products. Plant-based diets are often higher in fibre and phytonutrients, and can help reduce your risk of metabolic syndrome and depression.

Supplements

While plant-based diets offer all the necessary protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals for optimal health, some vegans may need to take a supplement, specifically vitamin B12, to ensure they receive all the required nutrients.

It's not nutritionally complete

One of the most common concerns about plant-based diets is the perception that they are not nutritionally complete. This belief is rooted in the idea that meat and animal products are essential sources of certain nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, this concern can be addressed by carefully selecting the right plant-based foods and, if necessary, taking supplements.

Firstly, it is important to understand that plant-based diets can provide all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. While it is true that animal products are rich in certain nutrients, plants can also be excellent sources of these same nutrients. For example, soy, quinoa, and nuts are good sources of protein, while tofu, lentils, and spinach are good sources of iron. By including a variety of plant-based foods in the diet, such as beans, legumes, and whole grains, one can ensure they are getting enough protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Secondly, while it is true that some plant-based diets may be lacking in certain nutrients, this is not an inherent flaw of plant-based diets but rather a result of poor planning or a lack of knowledge about nutrition. For example, some vegans may need to take a vitamin B12 supplement, as this nutrient is primarily found in animal products. However, this is a minor adjustment that can easily be made to ensure a nutritionally complete diet.

Additionally, the idea that meat is necessary for a healthy diet is a misconception. While meat can be a source of certain nutrients, it is not the only source, and there are many healthy and nutritious plant-based alternatives. In fact, research has consistently shown that plant-based diets are associated with lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers when compared to diets high in meat and animal products. This suggests that not only are plant-based diets nutritionally complete, but they may even offer superior health benefits compared to diets that include meat.

Finally, it is worth noting that the notion of a "nutritionally complete" diet is somewhat misleading, as the nutritional needs of individuals can vary significantly. Factors such as age, gender, activity level, and health status all influence an individual's nutritional requirements. Therefore, the idea that any one diet can be universally considered "nutritionally complete" is flawed. Instead, the focus should be on creating a diet that is tailored to the specific needs of the individual, which may include a variety of plant-based and animal-based foods.

In conclusion, while it is a common concern that plant-based diets are not nutritionally complete, this belief is largely unfounded. With careful planning and a basic understanding of nutrition, it is possible to create a plant-based diet that provides all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. Additionally, the notion of "nutritional completeness" is subjective and dependent on individual needs, which may vary significantly.

Frequently asked questions