If you have been living under a rock you might want to shake off those cobwebs, have a strong cup of coffee, and embrace the changing face of our food systems. If you were thinking that the plant-based movement was only a flash in the pan, you may want to revise that thought. More and more national chains are buying into this still fast-growing segment. One of the latest that was announced was KFC; it seems the Colonel passed the chicken coop and is headed for the garden!

In 2021, many embraced the nostalgia of home-style cooking. This seems to be the same for 2022. Adding to that, more Americans are seeking that balance of healthy, better-for-you foods. The fact is, Americans are eating less animal protein and becoming more cognizant of what sustainability means in the long term. With the rising costs of food in general and the substantial increase in meat prices, many are seeking alternative avenues.

Subsequently, I’ve seen the rise of add-on groups, like reducetarians, focused on a mantra of improving human health, protecting our environment while monitoring and sparing farm animals from cruelty by directly reducing the consumption of animal products. I believe in taking care of our environment and being good stewards of the animals that we raise. Ensuring that we have suitable protocols to provide for animal wellness and sustainability is paramount. Right now, I am still a meat-eater and I don’t think that will change. There are some brilliant humans out there that I am hoping will come up with an ecological and economically viable plan so we can have our meat cake and eat it too.

We are fortunate to live in America and have the privileges of choice, to consume the foods available to us from many cultures and cuisine, be that plant-based product or animal protein. For myself, as I have grown older and — one hopes — wiser, I stick to a healthy balance in all aspects of my life. Our family has always incorporated fruits and veggies, all types of animal proteins, a vast array of aquatic life in our daily diet, and (according to my doctor) too much cheese. The reality for meat producers is that they're getting less of the pie, having to give up some of their market share to other foodstuffs that are being consumed by the masses.

I’m almost positive this growing issue has been in their sights for quite some time, and a burr under their saddle that keeps growing. I think it will take more than a catchy phase like “where’s the beef, or “the other white meat” to combat the prevailing messaging, or at least align and strengthen its ties to the vast array of carnivores in this country.

My query this week is: What does the food on your dinner table look like? Has it changed over the past few years?

Live well. Cheers!

Reforming our food systems

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