Environmental sustainability isn't a major factor influencing meat consumption decisions for most Americans, despite increasing awareness of the climate impacts of red meat production, according to Rutgers researchers. The study , published in Appetite , examined meat and seafood consumption patterns among a nationally representative sample of more than 1,200 U.S.
adults. Researchers found while many Americans report reducing their red meat intake, health concerns and price are the primary motivators rather than environmental considerations. "There's a disconnect between the mounting evidence on meat's environmental footprint and what's actually driving consumer behavior ," said Shauna Downs, an associate professor in the Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy at Rutgers School of Public Health and lead author of the study.
"Our findings suggest that messaging focused solely on sustainability may not resonate with most U.S. consumers regarding meat choices.
" Key findings from the study include: The researchers found some demographic differences in meat consumption patterns and motivations. For example, respondents ages 65 and older were more likely to report reducing red meat intake than younger adults. Black respondents rated factors such as price, health and sustainability as more important in meat purchasing decisions compared with other racial and ethnic groups.
Compared to male respondents, female respondents reported environmental sustainability and health as.
