Meat consumption: scapegoat for a consumer society.
Aldiss J · The Veterinary record · 14 February 2026
Meat consumption represents a complex societal issue beyond simple nutritional or environmental reduction strategies.
This article by Aldiss, published in The Veterinary Record, examines meat consumption from a societal perspective rather than purely nutritional or health standpoints. The author argues that meat consumption has become a convenient scapegoat for broader issues associated with consumer society, including environmental degradation, sustainability concerns, and public health challenges. The piece critically analyzes how blame is often directed toward meat consumption without adequate consideration of the complex systems underlying food production and consumption patterns. From a veterinary perspective, this work is relevant to discussions on animal agriculture, welfare considerations, and the role of veterinary professionals in addressing food security and sustainability. The article encourages readers to think beyond simplistic narratives and consider the multifaceted nature of food system challenges. It suggests that focusing solely on reducing meat consumption may overlook other critical factors contributing to environmental and health problems in modern consumer societies.
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