Gen Z Brits ‘twice as prone to really feel responsible about consuming meat’ than over 65s

Recent studies have revealed that Gen Z are twice as likely to feel guilty about consuming meat compared to those over 65.

According to the study, a third of the younger generation often ponder where their food comes from and a further 32% are keen to learn more about the farming process. This is more than double the percentage of those aged over 65.

Among regular meat-eaters, it was discovered that they typically consume pork, beef, chicken or lamb four times each week with 16% eating them daily.

Interestingly, two-thirds believe they only eat meat because they were raised on it. However, an equal number confessed they’d start feeling guilty if they considered how their food ended up on their plate.

A spokesperson for Viva!, the organisation behind the research, commented: “It seems like eating meat is engrained in family traditions and upbringing. Our research shows if people were to think more about where their food came from however, they would have second thoughts.”

Interestingly, two fifths of those aged between 18-24 admitted they would likely be deterred from meat products if they learnt more about factory farming methods.

This follows the report that 56% of young adults expressed concern about how animals are killed in the meat industry.

The spokesperson from Viva! further added: “It’s really interesting to see how attitudes to meat consumption vary depending on generation.”

“Our survey reveals how the younger generations are more eager to understand the origins of their food and this knowledge could potentially deter them from including certain items in their diet.”

“This could signal the beginning of a new era of eating, which is better for both the environment and our animals.”