In Heartening News, German Health Minister Asks For 80% Reduction In Meat Consumption

With climate crisis as a pertinent concern for every country around the globe, it is important now more than ever for nations to commit to switching to plant-based food sources. This is exactly what Germany aims to do.

In heartening news, the German Federal Health Minister Prof. Dr. Karl Lauterbach has suggested a move that bodes good news for those advocating action against climate change. He proposed that initiatives be presented to intensely reduce meat-eating in their country. While the minister did not propose an out-right ban on meat-eating, he assured people that there should be a significant cut down on consumption.

Vegan cold cuts by German vegan food brand Veganz

THE SUSTAINABILITY TARGET

The German Federal Health Minister Prof. Dr. Karl Lauterbach proposed the plan as a means to match the sustainability target. Lauterbach pointed out how animal welfare is a major concern and that there are health ailments arising from consuming meat, especially when the poorest people eat the cheapest kind of meat. This gives them cardiovascular disease, puts them at risk for bowel cancer and more. He further said that the meat would be taxed so that it becomes an expensive food source. Once, it is less affordable, the other plant-based foods or alternate-meat products shall be sold on subsidized rates, which would add to their appeal.

THE THOUGHT BEHIND THE ACTION PLAN

“What is the point of cruelty to animals so that we eat unhealthy food and ruin the climate in the process?” Lauterbach said. “One thing is clear: we will have to eat much less meat,” he added.

“In the long term, we could reduce meat consumption by 80 percent. Not only in Germany but worldwide, because it is simply very difficult to produce meat without massive CO2 waste. I think an initiative that calls for a vegetarian and vegan diet, that sets incentives, is the right thing to do. I know that this is very controversial, but a successful policy also requires courage.”

“We will strengthen plant-based alternatives and advocate for the approval of innovations such as alternative protein sources and meat substitute products in the EU,” the agreement said.

What a wonderful way to make more strides toward plant-based food production!

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