February 2024

Abstract:

Background

The food industry is responding to a rising demand for plant-based foods by developing and marketing an ever-wider range of vegan and vegetarian products under the banner of “plant-based.” Understanding the nutritional properties of these products is critical.

Objectives

To assess the number, meal type, and nutritional content of products marketed as plant-based (MaPB) from the perspective of the consumer across multiple sectors in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.

Methods

An online search for products MaPB was performed across supermarkets, restaurants, food manufacturers, and plant-based meal delivery companies in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada using the terms: “vegan,” “vegetarian,” and “plant-based.” Online nutrition data were extracted, and whole meals that comprised >50% of ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds were identified. The nutritional content of dishes MaPB in restaurants was also directly compared with meat-containing dishes.

Results

Further, 3488 unique products were identified, of which 962 were whole meals and 1137 were a replacement for the main protein component in a meal, including 771 meat alternatives. Across all sectors, 45% of whole meals had >15-g protein, 70% had <10% kcal from saturated fat; 29% had >10-g fiber per meal, and 86% had <1000 mg sodium. At restaurants, 1507 meat-containing dishes were identified and compared with 191 vegetarian and 81 vegan dishes. The meat-containing dishes were higher in protein [35.4 g (24.0–51.4)] compared with vegetarian [19.0 g (13.0–26.1)] and vegan [16.2 g (10.5–23.2) dishes (P < 0.001)]. The vegan dishes were low in saturated fat and sodium (SFA: 6.3 g ± 6.4, Sodium: 800 mg (545.0–1410.0) compared with both meat [SFA: 11.6 g ± 10.0; Sodium: 1280 mg (820.0–1952.0)] and vegetarian [SFA: 9.4 g ± 7.6; Sodium: 1011 mg (603.0–1560.0)] options (P < 0.001 for all comparisons).

Conclusions

Products MaPB tend to have lower concentrations of saturated fat and sodium than their meat-containing counterparts, but improvements are needed to optimize their nutritional composition.

Guess, N., Klatt, K., Wei, D., Williamson, E., Ulgenalp, I., Trinidade, O., Kusaslan, E., Yildirim, A., Gowers, C., Guard, R., & Mills, C. (2023). A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Products Marketed as Plant-Based Across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada Using Online Nutrition Information. Current Developments in Nutrition, 7(3), 100059. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.100059 

Abstract:

The cultured meat technology has developed rapidly in recent years, but there are still many technical challenges that hinder the large-scale production and commercialization of cultured meat. Firstly, it is necessary to lay the foundation for cultured meat production by obtaining seed cells and maintaining stable cell functions. Next, technologies such as bioreactors are used to expand the scale of cell culture, and three-dimensional culture technologies such as scaffold culture or 3D printing are used to construct the three-dimensional structure of cultured meat. At the same time, it can reduce production costs by developing serum-free medium suitable for cultured meat. Finally, the edible quality of cultured meat is improved by evaluating food safety and sensory flavor, and combining ethical and consumer acceptability issues. Therefore, this review fully demonstrates the current development status and existing technical challenges of the cultured meat production technology with regard to the key points described above, in order to provide research ideas for the industrial production of cultured meat.

Zheng, Y.-Y., Hu, Z.-N., & Zhou, G.-H. (2024). A review: analysis of technical challenges in cultured meat production and its commercialization. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2024.2315447

Abstract:

For the sake of both the environment and human health, it is necessary to reduce meat consumption. However, increased consumer adoption of plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) will only occur when such products are attractive. PBMAs with meat-like sensory attributes and those that can be cooked similarly to meat are known to be preferred, but the preference for meat-likeness varies depending on the consumer’s attitude towards meat. This study determined the relationship between consumers’ level of meat attachment (MA) on their sensory perceptions of and preference for commercial PBMAs, and their drivers of liking. MA was measured by the Meat Attachment Questionnaire (MAQ); consumers with either low or high MA (LMA and HMA, respectively) were invited to participate in the study (n = 99). The sensory characteristics of seven PBMAs were evaluated using a rate-all-that-apply (RATA) questionnaire, along with an ideal profile and product hedonics. Consumers with LMA had significantly higher overall, aroma, and taste liking, compared with consumers with HMA. Both LMA and HMA consumers similarly discriminated among the sensory properties of PBMAs and the ideal profile. Nevertheless, a further adapted penalty analysis showed subtle differences in consumers’ penalisation of sensory attributes depending on MA level. These findings could be used for future research and the development of PBMAs based on consumers’ MA; they could also be extended for application in a meal context where the PBMAs are consumed.

Kim, A., Öström, Å., Mihnea, M., & Niimi, J. (2024). Consumers’ attachment to meat: Association between sensory properties and preferences for plant-based meat alternatives. Food Quality and Preference, 116, 105134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodqual.2024.105134 

Abstract:

According to the definition adopted in the European Union, novel foods are foods that were not consumed to a significant degree within the Union before May 15, 1997. This includes cultivated meat and insects. Novel foods are meant to play a critical role in the transition towards sustainable food systems. However, their success depends on whether and to what extent they will be incorporated into the diets at the population level. This review investigates consumers’ perception of novel food products by narratively synthesising results on the influence of heuristics and biases triggered by emotions, personality traits, and socio-cultural factors. Empirical studies conducted in Western countries and published in English after 1997 were eligible, which led to 182 studies being included. Notably, most included studies focused on insects and cultivated meat. Disgust and fear are shown to be the main emotions driving rejection of novel foods, together with food neophobia and specific cultural norms common across countries included in the scope of the review. Familiarity with novel foods and curiosity both led to higher acceptance. Despite being investigated directly in a minority of studies, heuristics and related biases mostly fell under the “affect,” the “natural-is-better,” and the “trust” heuristics. The review also discusses to what extent consumers' perception reflects in the regulatory framework applicable to novel foods in the European Union, how it influences the regulation of insects and cultivated meat and which lessons can be drawn for the future of the regulatory framework.

Monaco, A., Kotz, J., Al Masri, M., Allmeta, A., Purnhagen, K. P., & König, L. M. (2024). Consumers’ perception of novel foods and the impact of heuristics and biases: A systematic review. Appetite, 107285. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107285 

Abstract:

Cultured foods have the potential to profoundly transform the food industry. However, most current research focuses on cultured meat, neglecting other cultured products and begging the question of whether different promotional approaches are suited for certain types of cultured food products than others. To bridge this knowledge gap, we carried out two studies to explore how product type (cultured meat vs. cultured fruit) and benefit type (ethical vs. product attributes such as sensory and nutritional advantages) interact in determining consumers' willingness to try the products. Study 1 findings indicate that emphasizing ethical benefits is more effective for promoting cultured meat, whereas highlighting product benefits is more effective for promoting cultured fruit. We found that curiosity, a strong behavioral motivator, mediates the interactive effect of product type and benefit type on willingness to try. This research underscores the need for marketing messages to be tailored to the distinct cultured product types and enriches the literature on curiosity as an important mechanism in the context of cultured food acceptance.

Arango, L., Conroy, D. M., Errmann, A., & Septinato, F. (2024). Cultivating curiosity: Consumer responses to ethical and product benefits in cultured foods. Appetite, 107282. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107282 

Abstract:

The world population is expected to reach 9.8 billion by 2050 according to a report by the United Nations. The global demand for alternative proteins from different sources, such as microalgae, mycoproteins, insects, cell-based, cultured meat, meat substitutes, dairy alternatives, and fungi-based proteins, is projected to reach USD 290 billion by 2035. Due to their similar characteristics, offered at a relatively more affordable cost than animal proteins, alternative plant-based proteins are experiencing significant global demand. In recent years, industrial production of microalgal biomass has received attention due to its rich content of quality proteins, lipids, fatty acids, and pigments, whose products are of commercial interest in the field of food technology and engineering. Microalgae can be grown easily in open and closed systems for biomass and high-value products. Spirulina and Chlorella have the outstanding ability to accumulate protein and have already been used in meat substitutes, food products, feed, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. Here, we review the current literature, including new insights into the patent landscape about algal protein wholistically for its quality, culture conditions, recovery, and potential applications for food uses, and discuss its potential to find alternative protein sources for global needs.

Severo, I. A., de Lira, G. S., Ambati, R. R., Gokare, R. A., Vargas, J. V. C., Ordonez, J., & Mariano, A. B. (2024). Disruptive potential of microalgae proteins: Shaping the future of the food industry. Future Foods, 9, 100318. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fufo.2024.100318 

Abstract:

The “meat” marketing of new plant-based burgers distinguished them from traditional vegan burgers, yet it is still unknown if and to what extent this advertising appeals to meat consumers. We employ a novel digital advertisement dataset from Nielsen Ad Intel to investigate the market entry and advertising patterns of the Impossible Burger, one of the leading brands in the plant-based meat market. By merging weekly ad views at the DMA market level with Nielsen Homescan Panel, we find that prior purchases of meat burgers reduce the likelihood of consumers buying the new plant-based burger, whereas past vegan burger purchases elevate this probability. While advertising did boost the average purchasing likelihood for the Impossible Burger, the enhancement in purchase probability for meat burger consumers is approximately one fifth of that observed for vegan burger consumers. These findings have implications to effectively marketing plant-based meat products to different consumer groups [EconLit Citations: D12, M37, M31, L66].

Wang, L., Li, W., & Zheng, Y. (2024). Does the advertising of plant‐based burgers attract meat consumers? The influence of new product advertising on consumer responses. Agribusiness. https://doi.org/10.1002/agr.21916

Abstract:

This study examines how halal consciousness acts as a precursor to the influence of presumed media influence model to explain Muslims’ views (i.e., attitudes and behavioral intentions) toward cultured meat. A survey of 658 Muslim Singaporeans found that halal consciousness positively correlated with Muslims’ attention to media messages on the benefits of cultured meat, which subsequently shaped their presumed attention to these messages by family members, friends, and social media influencers. Presumed attention from family members and social media influencers was positively associated with Muslims’ attitudes toward cultured meat and subsequently their consumption intentions. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.

Ho, S. S., Wijaya, S. A., & Ou, M. (2024). Examining muslims’ opinions toward cultured meat in singapore: the influence of presumed media influence and halal consciousness. Science Communication. https://doi.org/10.1177/10755470231225684 

Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to examine the psychosocial determinants of baby boomers’—born between 1946 and 1964— intention to choose a menu item featuring plant-based meat alternatives (PBMA) when dining out. The specific objectives are as follows: 1) to identify the baby boomer generation's health-related perceptions about PBMA, and 2) to examine the factors that influence baby boomers' intention to choose a dish featuring PBMA at a restaurant. A total of 174 responses obtained using the Qualtrics panel were analyzed with content analysis and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings identified various underlying perceptions of baby boomers toward PBMA, such as perceived health outcomes, perceived availability, and willingness to purchase. Furthermore, subjective norm, cues to action, and self-identity were found to be significant predictors of the intention to choose a menu item featuring PBMA when dining out. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Shin, Y. H., Im, J., Jung, S. E., Kim, H., & Shin, H. W. (2024). Factors influencing baby boomers’ intention to choose a dish featuring plant-based meat alternatives (PBMA) at a restaurant: Findings from an online panel study. Appetite, 107283. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107283 

Abstract: 

Background: Over the past 20 years, cultured meat has drawn a lot of public attention as a potential solution to issues with animal husbandry, including inadequate use of natural sources, improper animal welfare practices, and possible risks to public health and safety. The novel method of producing meat through culture reduces the need for animals to produce muscle fiber, thereby obviating the necessity for animal slaughter. Apart from its ethical advantages, cultured meat presents a possible way to fulfill the expanding need for food among growing populations. The purpose of this research was to find out whether Turkish students would be willing to pay for and accept cultured meat. Technique: Method: 371 university students who willingly consented to fill out a questionnaire and provide demographic data make up the research sample. Questions from previous studies on the acceptability of cultured meat were compiled to create the survey. The research’s data collection took place in March and April of 2022. The research was completed in June 2022 after the data had been processed and analyzed. Results: The results showed that the majority of participants were female and had omnivorous eating habits. Based on the results of the Bonferroni correction test, students with a higher intention to purchase and consume cultured meat were those who received economics and business education. Students with two years of university education had a higher overall survey score than those with four years of education (p < 0.05). Furthermore, it is discovered that there is a negative correlation between the participants’ ages and their Factor 2 (using cultured meat as an alternative to industrial meat) and Factor 3 (consuming and purchasing it) section points (r = -109, p = 0.036) (r = -0.121, p = 0.019). In conclusion, university students generally have a negative outlook on health-related issues, such as eating cultured meat as an alternative.

Kumru, M., & Demir, H. (2024). Investigation of the acceptability of cultured meat in university students. Food and Nutrition Sciences, 15(02), 151–169. https://doi.org/10.4236/fns.2024.152009 

Abstract:

The widespread demand for animal-sourced foods poses challenges in addressing climate change due to their significant greenhouse gas emissions. Alternative proteins like cultured meat show promise with lower greenhouse gas emissions, but have faced public resistance, posing substantial barriers to their broad development and adoption. This paper reports a survey that examined the perceived naturalness of protein sources as an important factor that predicts perceived risks, benefits, and support for consumption. A diverse sample from the United States considered six different protein technologies, including three newer alternative proteins such as cultured meat and three more conventional proteins. Newer alternative proteins were perceived as less natural and were less supported than conventional proteins. Additionally, the more participants perceived protein sources as natural, the less risky and more beneficial they perceived them to be, contributing to their support. These results suggest that perceived naturalness, and associated risks and benefits, could be an important factor in shaping public support for or opposition to new proteins. These findings have theoretical and broader implications for the development and adoption of sustainability technologies.

Gonzalez Coffin, S., Eichhorst, W., Carrico, A. R., Inbar, Y., Newton, P., & Van Boven, L. (2024). Perceived naturalness predicts public support for sustainable protein technology. Climatic Change, 177(2), 29. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-024-03679-5 

Abstract:

What exactly is cellular agriculture and how are cultured versions of traditionally animal-based food produced? ProVeg answers some of the questions you might have about this promising method of food production.

Cellular agriculture is the production of animal-based products from cell cultures rather than directly from animals. After hunting and domesticating animals, cellular agriculture looks set to become the third phase of human sourcing of animal protein. In this blog, we’ll cover the following topics:

• The cell-cultivation method

• The acellular method

• The aim of cellular agriculture 

• Market opportunities and support from the food industry

• Support from governments

• Challenges

ProVeg International. What is cellular agriculture? | ProVeg International. (2024). Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://proveg.org/news/what-is-cellular-agriculture/ 

Abstract:

This study aimed to evaluate the consumption pattern of meat and meat products in major cities of Kerala. A total of 309 respondents, including 155 males and 154 females from Kerala, participated in this online survey through Google Forms. In this study, 76.4% of respondents were between the ages of 20 and 30 and 95.1% were above graduation level. The most preferred meat was chicken (55.3%), followed by beef (28.2%), chevon (10.7%) and pork (5.8%) and concerns regarding consumption of meat include mostly quality (71.8%) and food safety issues (56%). Meat alternatives were favoured by 20.7%. Factors affecting the consumption of processed meat include price (56.6%), fear of lifestyle diseases (35.9%), apprehensions about the side effects of red meat (12%) etc. However, 62.1% of respondents consumed meat weekly and homely meat dishes were preferred by 71.2% of the respondents. 85.1% of the respondents knew about meat-borne diseases, 11.7% suffered from diseases after eating meat and 19.4% were unsure. The present study provides an overview of consumer preferences and factors influencing meat consumption behaviour in major cities of Kerala. It points out the need for tailor-made solutions to address the felt needs of consumers in this state.

Sivaprasad, M. S., Parmar, N., Jisna, K. S., & Vinod, V. K. (2024). A Study of Consumer Attitudes towards Meat Consumption Patterns in Kerala. The Indian Veterinary Journal. https://epubs.icar.org.in/index.php/IVJ/article/view/148857 

Abstract:

Keeping a distance from food animals helps alleviate moral conflicts associated with meat consumption. Prior research on the ‘meat paradox’ has shown that physical distance from animals reduces negative emotional responses when consuming meat. However, even with physical distance, the presence of animals in meat advertisements and packaging can establish psychological contact. The impact of psychological distance on meat consumption and purchase inclinations has not been well explored. Through four experiments, we discovered that animal anthropomorphism psychologically brings consumers closer to food animals, resulting in reduced intentions to consume and purchase meat. Anthropomorphized animal images notably reduced social psychological distance for consumers with moderate to high (vs. lower) levels of anthropomorphic tendencies. Furthermore, the effect of anthropomorphism was influenced by moral self-efficacy. Specifically, when social psychological distance was reduced, consumers with higher (vs. lower) moral self-efficacy exhibited a significant decrease in their willingness to consume and purchase meat. These findings expand our understanding of the role of anthropomorphism in meat marketing, its limitations, and offer insights for sales strategies. Additionally, the research could inform public health policies on meat consumption, addressing environmental and ethical concerns tied to meat production amid growing worries about animal welfare.

Jiang, L. (Alice), Feng, Y., Zhou, W., Yang, Z., & Su, X. (2024). Too anthropomorphized to keep distance: The role of social psychological distance on meat inclinations. Appetite, 107272. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107272 

Abstract:

China has a rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years, and the significance of animal welfare and sustainability are reflected in China's diverse traditional philosophies, beliefs, and literature. These concepts have shaped Chinese people's perception of nature and treatment of animals throughout history. In this article, we will explore how animal welfare and sustainability are reflected in traditional Chinese culture, and discuss their significance and implication in modern Chinese society.

Zhou, J. (2024). A cultural reflection on animal welfare and its implication for modern Chinese society. Animal Research and One Health, 2(1), 110–115. https://doi.org/10.1002/aro2.49 

Abstract:

Introduction: This study investigated the occurrence of various animal welfare violations at German abattoirs by analyzing the results of an anonymous online survey and relevant German court decisions.

Methods: The survey targeted official veterinarians (OVs) and other individuals responsible for enforcing animal welfare laws and regulations at German abattoirs. Participants were asked to report the five most common animal welfare violations in their workplaces during the past 3 years (2019–2021), and whether 22 specific given violations had occurred or not (in the same timeframe). The court decisions were examined to determine how many abattoirs were penalized for a specific animal welfare violation and the details about the number and species of affected animals.

Results: Overall, the violations examined throughout this study fell into one of the following categories: (1) use of prohibited driving aids (e.g., illicit use of electric prods, or hitting/beating animals); (2) inadequate husbandry in lairage; (3) inappropriate handling of animals with special care needs; (4) improper restraint, stunning, and bleeding of animals; and (5) unqualified task execution/inadequate administrative work (e.g., documentation of a violation). The violations analyzed in the scope of this study most frequently fell into categories 1, 2, and 4. Regarding the five violations that survey participants reported to be the most common in the years 2019–2021, 42.6% of responses (N = 277 reported violations) fell into category 4, followed closely by category 1 with 37.9%. Of the 22 violations surveyed in the second part of the survey, those reported by 50.0% or more participants were concentrated in categories 1, 2, and 4. Regarding the 16 relevant court rulings spanning from 2015 to 2022, the most frequently documented instances of misconduct primarily fell into category 1.

Discussion: The collected data suggest that there may be need for improvements regarding compliance with animal welfare legislation, especially concerning categories 1, 2, and 4. The authors suggest OVs to consider these findings when conducting monitoring activities at abattoirs and in the training and education of abattoir personnel.

Schneidewind, S. J., Langforth, S., & Meemken, D. (2024). Animal welfare at German abattoirs: Insights into the occurrence of violations against laws and regulations from official veterinarians and judicial decisions. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2024.1354039 

Abstract:

Welfare of dairy animals and consequently their health and productivity is influenced by a number of factors such as the quality and quantity of supplement, health care given to animals, and stockpeoples; knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) on animal welfare. Studies have been conducted to evaluate the influence of most of the above factors on welfare of dairy animals, but very few studies focused on the influence of stockpeoples’ KAP on dairy welfare. A cross sectional study involving 93 stockpeople from the 31 large-scale dairy farms in the Midlands Province, Zimbabwe was conducted to determine their KAP on animal welfare. Results revealed that 67% of the stockpeople could not define animal welfare and this was significantly associated with the stockperson’s level of education (χ2 = 12.54, df = 3, p = 0.006). Only 14% of the stockpeople interviewed always talked to dairy cows when handling them and this was significantly associated with gender of the stockperson (χ2 = 10.7, df = 2, p < 0.001). About 20% of the stockpeople responded positively to touching the dairy animals when handling them and this was associated significantly with the stockperson’s gender (p = 0.005). On responses to whipping of animals when driving them, about 90% of the stockpeople said they never whip animals when handling or driving them. It is recommended that further studies be done to find better and more effective ways of teaching animal welfare concepts and practices.

Matore, Z., Woods, P. S., & Mutibvu, T. (2024). Dairy cattle welfare: knowledge, attitudes and practices of stockpeople from Midlands Province- Zimbabwe’s large-scale dairy farms. Research Square. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3850293/v1 

Abstract:

The restructuring of dairy farm production has resulted in enlarged unit sizes and production capacities on commercial farms in Finland. Concurrently, the livestock sector is facing high expectations and pressure to enhance farm animal welfare. Many dairy farms have invested in state-of-the-art technology, e.g. the proportion of milk milked by robots had risen 41% by 2019. Using a survey framework based on the constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), our aim was to explore which factors may limit farmers’ willingness to adopt animal welfare-enhancing solutions. The decision to adopt a technology can be seen as a holistic issue that is affected by farmer attitudes, farm-specific constraints, and information provided by trusted sources. The financial situation of farms, appropriate technological devices, animal welfare, and human well-being should all be considered holistically. We utilize our exploratory survey sample as an indicator for discussing the current situation. The most critical constraints were related to financial issues, farmers’ personal coping challenges, and device operation problems in the barn environment. To promote the adoption of new technologies, farmers require technical and other support from trusted groups and evidence on the functionality of the technology. The insights from this exploratory study highlight the importance of available resources; the most important deficiencies related to available resources were financial and personal capacity to cope with duties.

Kallioniemi, M. K., Kymäläinen, H.-R., & Niemi, J. K. (2024). Enabling factors and constraints for the adoption of animal welfare-enhancing technologies among Finnish dairy farmers. Frontiers in Animal Science, 5. https://doi.org/10.3389/fanim.2024.1332525 

Abstract:

Improvements in the welfare of animals in the intensive production industries are increasingly being demanded by the public. Scientific methods of welfare improvement have been developed and are beginning to be used on farms, including those provided by precision livestock farming. The number of welfare challenges that animals are facing in the livestock production industries is growing rapidly, and farmers are a key component in attempts to improve welfare because their livelihood is at stake. The challenges include climate change, which not only exposes animals to heat stress but also potentially reduces forage and water availability for livestock production systems. Heat-stressed animals have reduced welfare, and it is important to farmers that they convert feed to products for human consumption less efficiently, their immune system is compromised, and both the quality of the products and the animals’ reproduction are adversely affected. Livestock farmers are also facing escalating feed and fertiliser costs, both of which may jeopardise feed availability for the animals. The availability of skilled labour to work in livestock industries is increasingly limited, with rural migration to cities and the succession of older farmers uncertain. In future, high-energy and protein feeds are unlikely to be available in large quantities when required for the expanding human population. It is expected that livestock farming will increasingly be confined to marginal land offering low-quality pasture, which will favour ruminant livestock, at the expense of pigs and poultry unable to readily digest coarse fibre in plants. Farmers also face disease challenges to their animals’ welfare, as the development of antibiotic resistance in microbes has heralded an era when we can no longer rely on antibiotics to control disease or improve the feed conversion efficiency of livestock. Farmers can use medicinal plants, pro-, pre- and synbiotics and good husbandry to help maintain a high standard of health in their animals. Loss of biodiversity in livestock breeds reduces the availability of less productive genotypes that survive better on nutrient-poor diets than animals selected for high productivity. Farmers have a range of options to help address these challenges, including changing to less intensive diets, diversification from livestock farming to other enterprises, such as cereal and pseudocereal crops, silvopastoral systems and using less highly selected breeds. These options may not always produce good animal welfare, but they will help to give farm animals a better life.

Phillips, C. J. C. (2024). Farm animal welfare—from the farmers’ perspective. Animals, 14(5), 671. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14050671 

Abstract:

At a time when there is a growing public interest in animal welfare, it is critical to have objective means to assess the way that an animal experiences a situation. Objectivity is critical to ensure appropriate animal welfare outcomes. Existing behavioural, physiological, and neurobiological indicators that are used to assess animal welfare can verify the absence of extremely negative outcomes. But welfare is more than an absence of negative outcomes and an appropriate indicator should reflect the full spectrum of experience of an animal, from negative to positive. In this review, we draw from the knowledge of human biomedical science to propose a list of candidate biological markers (biomarkers) that should reflect the experiential state of non-human animals. The proposed biomarkers can be classified on their main function as endocrine, oxidative stress, non-coding molecular, and thermobiological markers. We also discuss practical challenges that must be addressed before any of these biomarkers can become useful to assess the experience of an animal in real-life.

Babington, S., Tilbrook, A. J., Maloney, S. K., Fernandes, J. N., Crowley, T. M., Ding, L., Fox, A. H., Zhang, S., Kho, E. A., Cozzolino, D., Mahony, T. J., & Blache, D. (2024). Finding biomarkers of experience in animals. Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology, 15(1), 28. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40104-023-00989-z 

Abstract:

Dairycalf welfare is receiving increasing public attention. To ensure optimal practices, farmers need to engage and be mindful of unethical behavior. However, avoiding information on animal welfare is common and often driven by willful ignorance. We conduct an exploratory analysis on survey data from 546 Irish dairy farmers. We investigate farmers’ choice to view a picture of transported dairy calves and find that over 20 per cent of farmers prefer to remain in a state of ignorance. Higher self-reported calf mortality and education increase the odds of viewing the picture while being a female decreases them. Farmers’ reasons for avoiding include the lack of new information in the picture, anticipated negative feelings, and biased information expectations. Additional explorations suggest that the farmers’ decision is not a survey artifact, but the results are not robust and further research is needed to confirm. Possible suggestions to improve calf welfare are to foster farmers’ trust, package information as new evidence on best calf-rearing practices, and better understand perceptions of animal welfare.

Läpple, D., & Arpinon, T. (2024). Irish farmers’ engagement with dairy calf welfare: An exploratory analysis. Q Open. https://doi.org/10.1093/qopen/qoae004 

Abstract:

Consumers’ awareness of animal welfare in farm animal husbandry – including laying hen systems – increased in the last few decades. As a result, more and more farmers in Austria changed from barn systems to free-range husbandry. However, only giving laying hens access to an unstructured outdoor area might cause poor use of major parts of the outdoor range. Since the ancestor of domestic chicken – the red junglefowl – inhabits dense jungle forests with manifold ground vegetation, the structural design of an outdoor area might also be of high importance for laying hens. To examine this assumption, we compared two commercial free-range laying hen farms with different amounts of vegetation provided on the outdoor ranges. We expected a more even and widespread use of space on a highly structured compared to a barely structured outdoor range. To evaluate the range use on both farms, a 15x15 m grid of barrier tape was brought out on each outdoor range. Using action cams, we took pictures of the outdoor ranges in ten-minute intervals from 09:00 h to 21:00 h for a total of three full days and counted the number of hens per quadrant. We ran GLMMs for each farm separately with cover (yes/no) as well as position (edge/centre) of the quadrant, distance to the shed (in m), as well as temperature (in °C) as fixed effects, and date, time, and quadrant ID as random effects. We found a more even and widespread use of space of hens on the structured compared to the unstructured outdoor range, where only half of the area was used. However, the number of hens decreased with increasing distance to the shed on both farms. There was a higher number of hens found on edge compared to centre quadrants on both farms. The most important finding was that with increasing temperature the number of hens remained high or even increased on quadrants with cover, while the number of hens only minimally increased or even decreased on quadrants without cover. These findings suggest cover to be a key factor for extensive range use, particularly in view of the expected increase in temperature due to climate change. Therefore, we recommend farmers to provide hens with highly structured outdoor ranges, not only to improve range use but also to offer hens a more species-appropriate environment, which is assumed to increase the hens’ welfare as well.

Deutsch, M., Dalseg, I. K., Kuchling, S., Sefc, K., Erregger, B., & Kalcher-Sommersguter, E. (2024). Space Use of Free-Range Laying Hens on Two Differently Structured Outdoor Ranges. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4720317 

Abstract:

Pasture-based beef cattle are raised in a range of production environments. Some paddocks may contain trees and other objects that allow for grooming, hence being naturally enriching, whilst others may be barren without these opportunities. Additionally, it is not uncommon for cattle to move between these enriched and barren environments as part of routine management. While the benefits of enrichment are well studied, how this ‘enrichment loss’ impacts cattle welfare as access to stimuli is removed is unknown. This trial assessed the impacts of the loss of an enriching object (grooming brush) on grazing beef cattle welfare and production characteristics. When grooming brush access was blocked, cattle became dirtier, showed reduced average daily gain, and had elevated faecal cortisol metabolites, although this varied according to the degree of initial individual brush use. Additionally, allogrooming and grooming on other objects were reduced when access to the brush was returned, potentially indicating a rebound effect. These results demonstrate that the loss of adequate grooming objects can impair the overall welfare of grazing cattle; however, further work is needed to determine exactly which natural or artificial objects provide adequate grooming opportunities.

Dickson, E. J., Monk, J. E., Lee, C., McDonald, P. G., Narayan, E., & Campbell, D. L. M. (2024). Loss of a grooming enrichment impacts physical, behavioural, and physiological measures of welfare in grazing beef cattle. Animal : An International Journal of Animal Bioscience, 18(3), 101091. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.animal.2024.101091 

Abstract:

The need to integrate more clearly societal expectations on livestock farming has led the authors of this article to consider that livestock farming systems must be redesigned to position health and welfare at the heart of their objectives. This article proposes a vision of the advances in knowledge required at different scales to contribute to this transformation. After defining health and welfare of animals, the article emphasises the need to consider health in a broader perspective, to deepen the question of positive emotional experiences regarding welfare, and raises the question of how to assess these two elements on farms. The positive interactions between health and welfare are presented. Some possible tensions between them are also discussed, in particular when improving welfare by providing a more stimulating and richer environment such as access to outdoor increases the risk of infectious diseases. Jointly improving health and welfare of animals poses a number of questions at various scales, from the animal level to the production chain. At the animal level, the authors highlight the need to explore: the long-term links between better welfare and physiological balance, the role of microbiota, the psycho-neuro-endocrine mechanisms linking positive mental state and health, and the trade-off between the physiological functions of production, reproduction and immunity. At the farm level, in addition to studying the relationships at the group level between welfare, health and production, the paper supports the idea of co-constructing innovative systems with livestock farmers, as well as analysing the cost, acceptability and impact of improved systems on their working conditions and well-being. At the production chain or territory levels, various questions are raised. These include studying the best strategies to improve animal health and welfare while preserving economic viability, the labelling of products and the consumers’ willingness to pay, the consequences of heterogeneity in animal traits on the processing of animal products, and the spatial distribution of livestock farming and the organisation of the production and value chain. At the level of the citizen and consumer, one of the challenges is to better inter-relate sanitary and health perspectives on the one hand, and welfare concerns on the other hand. There is also a need to improve citizens' knowledge on livestock farming, and to develop more intense and constructive exchanges between livestock farmers, the livestock industry and citizens. These difficult issues plead for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research involving various scientific disciplines and the different stakeholders, including public policy makers through participatory research.

Ducrot, C., Barrio, M. B., Boissy, A., Charrier, F., Even, S., Mormède, P., Petit, S., Pinard-van der Laan, M. H., Schelcher, F., Casabianca, F., Ducos, A., Foucras, G., Guatteo, R., Peyraud, J. L., Vayssier-Taussat, M., Veysset, P., Friggens, N. C., & Fernandez, X. (2024). Animal board invited review: Improving animal health and welfare in the transition of livestock farming systems: Towards social acceptability and sustainability. Animal : An International Journal of Animal Bioscience, 18(3), 101100. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.animal.2024.101100 

Abstract:

The impact of housing environment and strain on welfare and behavior of laying hens was the focus of this study. Lohmann LSL Classic (W) and Lohmann Sandy (S) were assessed under deep litter without outdoor access (DL), deep litter with access to outdoor pens covered with either Mentha piperita (MP), Petroselinum crispum (PC) or Medicago sativa (MS). Duration of tonic immobility, feather condition, footpad dermatitis, and temperatures (comb, breast region, footpad surface, and rectal) were determined at 31, 42, and 52 weeks of age. Hen`s behaviors were observed at 32, 42, and 52 weeks of age. Blood parameters were assessed at 52 weeks of age. Duration of tonic immobility was similar between hen strains and across ages of hens (p > 0.05), but nearly reached significant levels due to housing environment (p = 0.070). There was a significant effect of age (p < 0.001), housing environment (p < 0.001), and hen strain (p < 0.05) on total feather score. Age-related effects were observed for all the body region temperatures (p < 0.001), and only the comb surface temperature differed between hen strains (p < 0.001). Housing environment did not affect the body surface temperatures (p > 0.05). Blood parameters did not differ between hen strains and housing environments (p > 0.05). There was a significant effect of age, housing environment, and strain on the proportion of hens expressing some behaviors (p < 0.001; p < 0.05). Time of the day influenced the proportion of birds expressing wing flapping and dust bathing behaviors (p < 0.05). It was concluded that feather condition varies with the housing environment and hen strain, duration of tonic immobility may differ across housing environments, but other welfare traits remain to be refined. Also, housing environment but not strain modulates the expression of most behaviors of hens.

Tainika, B., Şekeroğlu, A., Akyol, A., Abaci, S. H., & Gür, F. M. (2024). The effect of housing environment (deep litter with or without access to different plant species outdoor) on welfare and behavior across two strains of laying hens. Turkish Journal of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, 48(1), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.55730/1300-0128.4332 

Abstract:

Pig transport drivers’ (TDs’) handling actions are of great importance as these drivers handle a large number of finishing pigs during stressful situations. Poor handling techniques can have negative consequences for working conditions, pig welfare and meat quality. We studied the effects of a training intervention on Swedish TDs’ attitudes towards pigs and their handling actions during loading for transport to slaughter. Twenty TDs working with commercial pig transportation in Sweden were recruited and completed an attitude questionnaire. Ten of them were observed during one loading of pigs before training, and one or two loadings after training (49–265 pigs per loading), and eight of them completed the attitude questionnaire again 50–160 days after training. The cognitive-behavioural training program ProHand Pigs® was adapted and delivered to the ten TDs during a group session, followed by individual meetings. TDs’ handling actions were video recorded and summarised as binary variables per 5-s interval. Factor analysis, principal component analysis and paired t-test were conducted to investigate the effects of the training intervention on TDs’ attitudes, and mixed-effects logistic models were used to examine effects on negative and positive handling actions. Training tended to decrease TDs’ beliefs that it is important to move pigs quickly (P = 0.095). Training decreased the odds of a ‘moderately to strongly negative’ action by 55% (P = 0.0013) and increased the odds of a ‘positive’ action by 97% (P < 0.0001). This study provides valuable insights into the possibilities to improve TDs’ handling actions, and implications for pig welfare during slaughter transport. The study supports previous findings that the attitudes and behaviour of handlers can be improved by cognitive-behavioural training. While our previous research has shown reciprocal relationships between TDs’ actions and pig behaviour, further research on TDs’ attitudes towards handling that underlie the nature of their behaviour when handling pigs is necessary to fine-tune the cognitive-behavioural training program applied in the present study.

Wilhelmsson, S., Hemsworth, P. H., Andersson, M., Yngvesson, J., Hemsworth, L., & Hultgren, J. (2024). Training of transport drivers improves their handling of pigs during loading for transport to slaughter. Animal : An International Journal of Animal Bioscience, 18(4), 101115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.animal.2024.101115 

Abstract:

Live fish are in high demand all over the world, especially in China, where quality standards align with consumer preferences. In Kenya, discussions on live fish, particularly in aquaculture-rich regions, are focal points. However, the lack of a systematic approach to transporting live fish poses challenges for stakeholders. This research explores attitudes and perceptions of stakeholders in Kenya regarding the adoption and transportation of live fish, shedding light on transportation procedures and sector challenges. Using a descriptive research design, primary data were collected from diverse aquaculture stakeholders through a questionnaire, addressing their knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward live fish transportation in the country. The study unveils varied patterns of live fish transportation in Kenya, influenced by the purpose and distance. Private cars are prominent at 26.3%, with Nyanza and Mombasa leading at 35%. Modified vans are prevalent in Central-Nairobi and Western regions (25% and 22.5%, respectively), while public transport is widespread, especially in Central and Nairobi (25%). Purpose-built live fish vehicles dominate in Western and Nyanza (20% and 17.5%, respectively). Crustaceans like lobsters and crabs are primarily exported from the Coastal region (27.5%). Participants generally assessed their knowledge of live fish transportation as moderate, with a basic understanding of fish welfare. Feedback indicates common practices in live fish transport in Kenya as sealed tanks, plastic bags, and purpose-built vehicles. Temperature and oxygen fluctuations poses a significant challenge during transportation across all regions, particularly in Mombasa and Kisumu. The use of anaesthetics, especially for food fish, is infrequently reported. The study revealed favourable perceptions of stakeholders to live fish transportation and welfare, indicating early adoption. Further research is recommended on fish welfare, best management practices, technological advancements, and interdisciplinary studies to enhance the sustainability of live fish transportation sector and fish welfare in Kenya.

Syanya, F. J., Mathia, W. M., Mumina, P., Litabas, J. A., & Sifuna, C. (2024). Aqua perspectives: stakeholder attitudes and perceptions in live fish transportation practices within the Kenyan fisheries sector. Marine and Fishery Sciences (MAFIS), 37(2). https://doi.org/10.47193/mafis.3722024010507 

Abstract:

The aim of this study was to assess whether activity and heart rate sensor implants can be used to measure stress and thus estimate one important welfare indicator for fish in aquaculture pens, and if such measurements correlate to physiological factors measured through blood sampling. The experiment consisted of two parts: i) a bio-logger study where implanted sensors were used to monitor activity and heart rates for fish undergoing stress (crowding); and ii) an analysis of blood constituents (cortisol, glucose, lactate, and chloride) of a second group of fish undergoing the same treatment. We found that activity measurements can be used to track high-impact stress events but may not be suitable to discern possibly nuanced reactions to stress impacts of lower magnitude. While heart rate was measured reliably, e.g., in showing clear circadian rhythms, it was no credible proxy for predicting stress in this study. Our results thus underline challenges observed in previous work around the use of heart rate as stress indicator, and imply that the translation of its meaning into a proxy for stress needs further work. Although tag-based monitoring of stress is not without its difficulties, studies such as this provide a wealth of information on salmon behaviour and physiology, and the links between these.

Bloecher, N., Hedger, R., Finstad, B., Olsen, R. E., Økland, F., Svendsen, E., Rosten, C., & Føre, M. (2024). Assessment of activity and heart rate as indicators for acute stress in Atlantic salmon. Aquaculture International. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10499-024-01409-3 

Abstract:

The live transport of farmed fish is an important practice in Chinese aquaculture due to consumer preferences in its domestic market. However, live transport can be stressful for fish and may cause many welfare issues. This study aimed to examine the effects of transport density on the welfare of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Adult fish were allocated to four experimental treatments in a two-factor design (N = 5 groups per treatment). Factor one was stocking density of either 39 (low density) or 78 (high density) g L−1. Factor two was transport, with half of the fish groups exposed to simulated transport stress for 3 h using a motion platform, and the other half kept in static tanks for the same length of time. Baseline behavior and physiology were determined from a subset of fish after acclimation but before selection into groups and application of transport. To determine the effects of transport, stocking density, and their interaction on the experimental groups, physiological sampling and behavioral recording were carried out immediately after simulated transport, and water quality was measured both before and after transport. Changes in water quality were observed between two timepoints, with decreased dissolved oxygen levels and increased water temperature. Total ammonia nitrogen levels significantly increased in all treatments over time, particularly in the high-density groups. Fish ventilation rates were significantly elevated in the groups kept at a high stocking density regardless of whether they also experienced transport stress. Fish transported at a high stocking density also showed more fear-related behaviors such as freezing and thigmotaxis than non-transported groups. Serum cortisol, catalase, and aspartate transaminase levels were significantly higher in the transported treatment groups compared to the baseline fish, but no difference was found for serum glucose, lactate, and glutathione peroxidase. We concluded that 3 h of simulated transport was stressful to largemouth bass kept at 78 g L−1, as evidenced by altered fish physiological and behavioral indicators of stress, as well as deteriorated water quality. Additionally, we identified a positive correlation between serum and skin mucus samples for cortisol, glucose, and lactate in transported fish, providing important information for developing less invasive methods for the welfare assessment of largemouth bass.

Yang, Y., Narayan, E., Rey Planellas, S., Phillips, C. J. C., Zheng, L., Xu, B., Wang, L., Liu, Y., Sun, Y., Sagada, G., Shih, H., Shao, Q., & Descovich, K. (2024). Effects of stocking density during simulated transport on physiology and behavior of largemouth bass. Journal of the World Aquaculture Society. https://doi.org/10.1111/jwas.13054 

Abstract:

In many countries, increasing concern for animal welfare is driving retailer commitments and government legislation that aim to improve the lives of farmed fish. One aspect of fish welfare involves stunning fish prior to slaughter. The feasibility of stunning depends on the species of fish and physical farm characteristics. In this article, we provide an overview of stunning before slaughter in European sea bass and sea bream aquaculture, one of the largest finfish farming industries in the developed world that does not yet stun most of its production. Sea bass and sea bream stunning necessitates the use of electrical stunning equipment aboard harvest vessels, often a significant distance from the shoreline; this presents an interesting engineering and policy challenge. Together, Türkiye, Greece, Spain, and Italy produced over 400,000 t of sea bass and sea bream in 2020. In Türkiye and Greece, farms are numerous and located very close to the shoreline. In Spain and Italy, farms are few and located far from the shoreline. The highest average production is found in farms from Türkiye (1,000 t) and Spain (1,300 t, and lower average production is found in Greece (300 t) and Italy (350 t). Producer progress towards the installation of electrical stunning appears comparatively well-developed for Türkiye, Spain, and Greece, though we emphasise that producers and other stakeholders require continued support to realise this opportunity. Producers in Italy appear slower to make progress on this aspect of animal welfare and may require additional support.

van Pelt, K., Carpendale, M., & Ryba, R. (2024). Humane slaughter in Mediterranean sea bass and bream aquaculture: Farm characteristics, stakeholder views, and policy implications. Frontiers in Aquaculture. https://doi.org/10.3389/faquc.2024.1383280   

Abstract:

The intensification of aquaculture practices in the last decade can compromise the welfare of farmed fish. However, one strategy to be considered to improve the welfare of captive fish is the implementation of structural enrichment in the rearing environment. The behavioural and physiological effects of suspended ropes inside rearing tanks were experimentally assessed on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) breeders, evaluating the potential use of such structures in production units. Over the course of six months, 60 adult gilthead seabreams, were reared in cylindrical tanks with and without structural enrichment. Fish were video recorded regularly before, during and after feeding. Biometry and blood samples for biochemical analyses of plasma (cortisol, glucose and lactate) were taken throughout the experiment. Suspended ropes modified the horizontal distribution of fish after feeding, influencing the swimming activity and social interactions throughout the experimental period. In addition, structural enrichment promoted foraging and anticipatory behaviour of gilthead seabream. No effects of structural enrichment were detected on gilthead seabream condition or growth, although there was an apparent positive yet fading effect of enrichment on plasma cortisol and glucose. In general, structural enrichment had diverse positive effects on the behaviour diversity and natural repertoire of captive gilthead seabream, and therefore, on fish welfare. This type of structural environmental enrichment can be easily incorporated into land-based flow-through and recirculating aquaculture systems, both for experimentation and commercial purposes.

Oliveira, A. R., Cabrera-Alvarez, M. J., Soares, F., Diáz-Gil, C., Candeias-Mendes, A., Saraiva, J. L., & Arechavala-Lopez, P. (2024). Structural enrichment promotes natural behaviour and welfare of captive gilthead seabream broodstock. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4743107 

Abstract:

The welfare of farmed fish has gained increasing attention during recent decades, and as technological advances have facilitated measurement of brain activity in fish, the slaughter process has been highlighted as an area for assessment and potential improvement. Here, we used electroencephalogram (EEG) to assess brain activity in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), and used commercial slaughter practices to guide optimization of stunning conditions in a laboratory setting. Following in-air electro-stunning at processing plants, individual fish responses varied from the shock based on EEG and corresponding ventilation measurements prior to physical euthanasia. Results from laboratory experiments showed stunning efficacy is dependent on shock duration and the location where electrodes contact fish. Electrodes contacting the head for 1 second using 50 Hz 132 V AC, with a current > 380 mARMS, caused immediate loss of consciousness lasting 10 – 40 s. When stun exposure was prolonged to 6 s, recovery time was significantly longer, ranging from 45 – 240 s (mean 125 s). If the electrodes contacted the body instead of the head, shock delivered for 6 s resulted in a shorter recovery time of 0 – 100 s (mean 48 s). These findings highlight that shock duration and electrode position are important when stunning channel catfish and presumably other fishes, and indicate the time from stunning to killing should be kept as short as possible.

Hjelmstedt, P., To, F., Gräns, A., & Allen, P. (2024). Use of electroencephalogram (eeg) to optimize stunning efficiency and animal welfare in commercial catfish production. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4743448 

Abstract:

We analyze the responses of Chinese netizens to U.S.-based WildAid’s Shu Shi campaign, which was launched in China in 2018 with aims to reduce the nation’s meat consumption in support of climate change mitigation. We conduct an interpretive content analysis of approximately 3,000 online comments, finding that nationalist sentiment is the most prevalent theme underlying responses to the campaign. Netizens generally see the campaign as a criticism of their national identity. They define this identity by emphasizing China’s achievements, expressing a need for the population’s autonomy, recalling a collective history of humiliation by Western actors, and taking pride in Chinese food culture. Feelings among netizens of unfair treatment weakened the campaign’s effectiveness. Respondents cite national identity, nationalism, and climate justice in micro-level discourses to challenge the legitimacy of WildAid’s efforts to encourage reduced meat consumption as a climate change mitigation strategy in China. This study adds depth and nuance to our understanding of national identity, nationalism, and the perceived effectiveness of strategies encouraging behavior change to mitigate climate change.

Du, J., Liu, J. C.-E., & Mix, T. L. (2024). China deserves its hamburger: the controversy over WildAid’s Shu Shi campaign in China. Environmental Sociology, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1080/23251042.2024.2319370 

Abstract:

One way to increase the consumption of nutritious diets as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is by promoting plant-based (PB) food consumption. Many food companies have been trying to develop innovative PB food products, while some policymakers have been promoting PB diet patterns. This research aims to gain an in-depth understanding of consumer PB food attitudes and factors affecting consumers' PB food choices. In-depth interviews with semi-structured questions and a projective technique were conducted with 28 participants (n = 28) in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in March–April 2022. Quota sampling was based on the equal age and gender of the participants (age between 18–75 years old). Thematic analysis was carried out to identify themes that emerged from the interview. The results revealed that PB food attitudes varied based on age. Among more senior consumers, the PB term was new to them. They perceived local dishes are mainly from plants. For the younger generation, PB food was perceived as fake meat with unnecessary food additives. PB food price was a critical factor for consumer food choice. However, consumers might be persuaded to consume more PB food due to its nutritional benefits and situational factors. A new PB food product concept can be developed from local dishes instead of PB products that have been successfully launched abroad. PB food campaigners can raise awareness about certain ethnic foods instead of giving broad advice about the PB diet concept.

Walter, P., Utama‐ang, N., Bai‐Ngew, S., & Simapaisan, P. (2024). Maybe eating more local food is what we need: qualitative views on plant‐based food among Thai consumers. International Journal of Food Science & Technology, 59(4), 2375–2382. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijfs.16965 

Abstract:

Can moral appeals motivate individuals to choose less carbon-intensive diets? In a survey-embedded forced-choice conjoint experiment involving 1520 US respondents, we asked participants to compare two menus across six dimensions: (1) burger/sandwich patty type and its corresponding carbon footprint value, (2) calories, (3) protein, (4) price, (5) ingredient origin, and (6) farming method. Within each menu, the values for these dimensions varied randomly. Further, respondents were randomly assigned to three frames: a reference frame that highlighted the scientific rationale for pro-climate action, and treatment frames with a moral-secular and a moral-religious framing of pro-climate action. We found that moral appeals did not influence individuals to make low-carbon food choices. Across the entire sample, respondents tended to favor non-vegetarian options with higher carbon footprints. Those who prioritized taste were less inclined to choose the vegetarian menu. However, some subgroups did show a preference for the vegetarian menu, including women, those with pro-climate attitudes and prior exposure to a vegetarian diet, and those who considered the health impact of their food choices. In conclusion, it appears that moral appeals are unlikely to drive significant changes in individual food choices toward a more climate-friendly food system. Instead, dietary preferences are primarily shaped by individuals’ pre-existing climate attitudes and demographics.

Mrchkovska, N., Dolšak, N., & Prakash, A. (2024). Morality meets menu: investigating the impact of moral appeals on vegetarianism through a conjoint survey experiment. Climatic Change, 177(3), 38. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-024-03695-5 

Abstract:

Global meat consumption has risen steadily in recent decades, with heterogeneous growth rates across regions. While meat plays a critical role in providing essential nutrients for human health, excessive consumption of meat, particularly red and processed meat, has also been associated with a higher risk of certain chronic diseases. This has led public authorities, including the World Health Organization, to call for a reduction in meat consumption. How governments can effectively reduce the health costs of meat consumption remains a challenge as implementing effective policy instruments is complex. This paper examines health-related policy instruments and potential economic mechanisms that could reduce meat consumption. Health-related taxation could be the most effective instrument. Other policy instruments, such as informational and behavioral instruments, along with regulations, could discourage meat consumption depending on the policy design. We also provide evidence on the link between meat consumption and the environment, including climate, biodiversity, water use, and pollution. Promoting healthy behaviors by reducing meat consumption can then have environmental co-benefits and promote broader sustainable development goals. We also discuss the policy-related challenges that need to be addressed to meet environmental co-benefits.

Bonnet, C., & Coinon, M. (2024). Environmental co-benefits of health policies to reduce meat consumption: A narrative review. Health Policy, 143, 105017. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthpol.2024.105017 

Abstract:

Introduction: Gender differences have been identified in both the engagement in and the determinants of sustainable diet behaviours. However, as engagement in pro-environmental behaviours varies across countries, the consistency of gender differences could follow similar patterns. Understanding the factors underlying gender and country differences in diet intentions is important for determining how to promote sustainable diets in different populations.

Methods: Using survey data from the UK, China, Sweden and Brazil (N=4,569), this paper examines the influence of subjective norms, diet-related identity, perceived status of meat consumption, environmental identity and environmental concern on sustainable diet intentions. Multigroup analysis was used to explore gender and country differences in the influence of these variables, and whether gender differences were consistent across the four countries.

Results: The findings show that there are gender differences in the influence of diet-related identity and perceived status of meat consumption, as well as cross-country differences in all factors except subjective norms. Holding a strong diet-related meat identity negatively affected sustainable diet intentions in all groups. Crucially, however, gender differences are not consistent across countries.

Discussion: These results suggest that individuals’ intentions to engage in sustainable diet behaviours are influenced by nationally unique gender associations.

Chard, E., Bergstad, C. J., Steentjes, K., Poortinga, W., & Demski, C. (2024). Gender and cross-country differences in the determinants of sustainable diet intentions: a multigroup analysis of the UK, China, Sweden, and Brazil. Frontiers in Psychology, 15, 1355969. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1355969 

Abstract:

n/a

Guillen-Royo, M., Sandnes, T., Westskog, H., & Brudevoll, K. (2024). Healthier and sustainable food at work and beyond: A study of user and organisational practices in a Norwegian municipal canteen. Journal of Cleaner Production, 444, 140789. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.140789 

Abstract:

Plant-based meat substitutes are becoming increasingly popular as an alternate protein source. We used input-output analysis to model the environmental and socio-economic impacts of transitioning to soy-based meat substitutes to replace nutrients lost from reductions in livestock meat consumption. We found that soy-based meat substitutes can be macronutrient replacements for livestock meat with significant environmental benefits mostly in reduced biodiversity loss, land use, and agricultural water consumption. We also found that expansions of soybean cultivation are not necessary for the transition as the decrease in soybeans for animal feed is more than sufficient to meet the increase in soybeans for soy-based meat substitutes. There are small decreases in employment and income in the livestock sector from the transition, but negative socio-economic impacts are less substantial compared to the environmental benefits. Therefore, transitioning to soy-based meat substitutes could mitigate adverse environmental impacts and improve the sustainability of global food systems.

Liyana Pathirana, N. N., Sun, Y., Li, M., Wakiyama, T., Faturay, F., Singh, S., Stevens, M. C., Raubenheimer, D., & Lenzen, M. (2024). Modelling potential environmental and socio-economic impacts of substituting livestock meat with soy-based meat substitutes. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4736707 

Abstract:

Plant-based alternatives (PBAs) are increasingly becoming part of diets. Here, we investigate the environmental, nutritional, and economic implications of replacing animal-source foods (ASFs) with PBAs or whole foods (WFs) in the Swedish diet. Utilising two functional units (mass and energy), we model vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian scenarios, each based on PBAs or WFs. Our results demonstrate that PBA-rich diets substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions (30–52%), land use (20–45%), and freshwater use (14–27%), with the vegan diet showing the highest reduction potential. We observe comparable environmental benefits when ASFs are replaced with WFs, underscoring the need to reduce ASF consumption. PBA scenarios meet most Nordic Nutrition Recommendations, except for vitamin B12, vitamin D and selenium, while enhancing iron, magnesium, folate, and fibre supply and decreasing saturated fat. Daily food expenditure slightly increases in the PBA scenarios (3–5%) and decreases in the WF scenarios (4–17%), with PBA diets being 10–20% more expensive than WF diets. Here we show, that replacing ASFs with PBAs can reduce the environmental impact of current Swedish diets while meeting most nutritional recommendations, but slightly increases food expenditure. We recommend prioritising ASF reduction and diversifying WFs and healthier PBAs to accommodate diverse consumer preferences during dietary transitions.

Bunge, A. C., Mazac, R., Clark, M., Wood, A., & Gordon, L. (2024). Sustainability benefits of transitioning from current diets to plant-based alternatives or whole-food diets in Sweden. Nature Communications, 15(1), 951. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-45328-6 

Abstract:

From the perspective of health and environment, the consumption of red and processed meat in Norway should be reduced. It is possible to increase domestic production of plant protein from the high protein crops (HPC) peas, faba beans, rapeseed and turnip rapeseed. The aim of this study was to document environmental impacts and impacts on demand for food and feed when increasing the Norwegian production of HPC and using the plant proteins to replace other food protein sources, in particular animal-based-protein. In this study, results from life cycle assessments of certain food groups, import/export statistics, data on food waste and data on feed recipes were used to quantify the environmental impact of realising the full production potential of HPC and using them for human food replacing. Four scenarios have been developed for the Norwegian population's diet in 2030: 1) BUSINESS-AS-USUAL: 2) PLANT: red meat in the diet is partially replaced by HPC; 3) CHICKEN: as scenario PLANT but with an additional reduction of red meat in the diet replaced by chicken meat; 4) SEAFOOD: as CHICKEN but replacing red meat with seafood rather than with chicken meat.

Compared to the BUSINESS-AS-USUAL scenario, the impacts covered in this study would for the scenarios, would be decreased annually by 5 and 20 %. For example emission of greenhouse gases would be reduced annually by between 1.07 and 1.76 million tonnes of CO2-eq for the various scenarios, equivalent to 10–16 % of emissions associated with Norway's total food production.

At the same time, less food and feed (141,000–420,000 t per year) and agricultural land (34,000–89,000 ha) would be needed to satisfy the Norwegian population's need for protein. The results shows that increased production of HPC and utilisation for food in Norway could achieve large reductions in environmental impacts, reduce pressure on agricultural land, increase Norway's national self-sufficiency and contribute to a more healthy diet.

Svanes, E., Uhlen, A. K., & Møller, H. (2024). The environmental effect of utilising domestic plant protein potential and replacing other protein sources in the diet in Norway. Sustainable Production and Consumption, 45, 464–475. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spc.2024.01.024 

Abstract:

Purpose

To identify “headlines” that would engage recipients to consider plant protein over red meat.

Design

Mail and web survey.

Setting

Urban Minnesota community.

Subjects

144 survey respondents from our health plan and community program distribution lists who live with at least 1 other person and eat meat.

Intervention

We asked respondents how likely they would be to click on each of 24 headlines with a motivator (eating plant protein for health vs for environmental reasons) and a barrier (family preferences, knowledge about plant proteins, or cooking skills). 16 headlines contained the word “beans”.

Measures

We created categorical variables for each headline construct: (1) motivator, (2) barrier, and (3) reference to beans. Using a mixed model with random effects, we compared, for each construct, respondents’ self-reported likelihood to click on a headline.

Results

Health-related headlines performed significantly better than environmental headlines (P = .0019, 95% CI .01, .11). Family-oriented headlines performed slightly better than skills-oriented (P = .0927, 95% CI -.01, .11) and knowledge-oriented (P = .0960, 95% CI -.01, .11) headlines. Headlines containing the word “beans” performed significantly worse than those not containing “beans” (P < .0001, 95% CI -.22, -.12).

Conclusions

The population represented by our survey respondents report being most likely to click on headlines that emphasize health and family. They report they are significantly less likely to click on headlines that promote beans.

Kottke, T. E., Dinh, J. M., Henderson, M. S. G., Zibley, L., Rivard, R. L., Ziegenfuss, J. Y., Ellefson, K. J., Peterson, H., & Canterbury, M. (2024). Don’t say “beans” when promoting plant protein to family meal planners. American Journal of Health Promotion, 8901171241237017. https://doi.org/10.1177/08901171241237017 

Abstract:

The present research examined whether personality and individual differences have practical implications for effective animal advocacy (i.e., how effective an animal advocacy message is) by exploring whether individual differences in gender identity, social dominance orientation, and speciesism moderate the effects of advocacy. An online study was conducted employing an experimental design (advocacy vs. control condition). Four hundred and ninety-five participants (120 men, 375 women) watched either an advocacy video showing chickens suffering on a free-range egg farm or a control video (a lifestyle video showing the preparation of plant-based meals). Data were analyzed using MANOVA, ANOVAs, correlations, and moderated regression analyses. Results indicated that participants in the advocacy condition showed more positive attitudes toward chickens and less positive attitudes toward free-range eggs and stronger intentions to reduce egg consumption, compared with participants in the control condition. Importantly, whereas social dominance orientation had no moderating effects, gender identity moderated the effect of advocacy on attitudes toward chickens: Women, but not men, showed more positive attitudes in the advocacy condition compared with the control condition. Furthermore, speciesism moderated the effects of advocacy on attitudes toward free-range eggs and on intentions to reduce egg consumption: Participants low in speciesism expressed less positive attitudes toward free-range eggs and stronger intentions to reduce egg consumption in the advocacy compared with the control condition. These effects were weaker (attitudes) or nonsignificant (intentions) in participants high in speciesism. The findings suggest that some types of animal advocacy may work only for some people, but not others. The present research contributes to the understanding of the role that personality and individual differences play in human–animal relations and has relevance for practical efforts of animal advocacy to improve these relations, increase animal welfare, and reduce the use of animal products.

Stoeber, J., Dhont, K., & Salmen, A. (2024). Individual differences in effective animal advocacy: moderating effects of gender identity and speciesism. Anthrozoös, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1080/08927936.2024.2314389 

Abstract:

A shift from predominantly animal-based to plant-based consumption can benefit both planetary and public health. Nudging may help to promote such a shift. This study investigated nudge effects on plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy in an online supermarket. We conducted a two-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled real-life online supermarket trial. Each customer transaction was randomized to a control arm (regular online supermarket) or an intervention arm (addition of placement, hedonic property and dynamic social norm nudges promoting meat and dairy alternatives). Outcomes were the aggregate of meat and dairy alternative purchases (primary outcome), the number of meat purchases, dairy purchases, meat alternative purchases, and dairy alternative purchases (secondary), and retailer revenue (tertiary). Generalized linear mixed models with a Conway–Maxwell Poisson distribution were used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs). Analyzed data included 8488 transactions by participants (n = 4,266 control arm, n = 4,222 intervention arm), out of which 2,411 (66%) were aged above 45 years, 5,660 (67%) were females, and 1,970 (23%) lived in socially disadvantaged neighborhoods. Intervention arm participants purchased 10% (IRR 1.10 (95% CI 0.99–1.23)) more meat and dairy alternatives and 16% (1.16 (0.99–1.36)) more meat alternatives than control arm participants, although these findings are not statistically significant. There was no difference in dairy alternative purchases (1.00 (0.90–1.10)). Intervention arm participants purchased 3% less meats (0.97 (0.93–1.02)) and 2% less dairy products (0.98 (0.95–1.02)) than control participants. Retailer revenue was not affected (0.98 (0.95–1.01)). Online nudging strategies alone did not lead to a statistically significant higher amount of plant-based purchases, but replication of this work is needed with increased study power. Future studies should also consider nudging strategies as part of a broader set of policies to promote plant-based purchases.

van der Vliet, N., Stuber, J. M., Raghoebar, S., Roordink, E., & van der Swaluw, K. (2024). Nudging plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy in a real-life online supermarket: A randomized controlled trial. Appetite, 196, 107278. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107278 

Abstract:

Recent shifts in the global dietary preferences have indicated the fast-growing choice for plant-based, or meat-reduced diets. Among the motivations for such choices, which are increasingly advocated by nations and environmental institutions, is the major concern with global environmental sustainability and impacts of food production systems. Incontestably, the animal food source industry is extremely diverse, and seafood production through the aquaculture value chain remains unfamiliar to key stakeholders possibly leading to an uncomprehensive view and often biased perception of the farming industry within the environmental context. Accordingly, I discuss the importance of seafood production systems, such as the fastest seafood production that is the aquaculture sector, to increase their focus on the sustainability arena with more substantial and effective improvements for sustainable production, and most importantly, concomitantly informing end consumers. I mention examples of types of sustainability efforts that can be implemented and highlight the urgency of actively informing customers about implemented practices.

Mizuta, D. D. (2024). Dietary shifts and the need for increased sustainability approaches in the global aquaculture seafood system. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1356492 

Abstract:

Finfishes are caught from the wild for food, feed (often in the form of fishmeal and oil) and bait. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), between 74 and 83 million tonnes (averaging 77 million tonnes) were caught annually in 2000–2019. Although fishes are now widely recognised as sentient beings, capture is still quantified as biomass rather than number of individuals (in contrast to wild-caught marine mammals and crocodiles; and farmed mammals and birds). Here, we estimate global numbers of wild-caught finfishes using FAO capture production (landing) tonnages (2000–2019 data) and estimates of mean individual weight at capture, based on internet-sourced capture and market weights. We estimate that between 1,100 and 2,200 billion (1.1–2.2 × 1012), or 1.1–2.2 trillion, wild finfishes were caught annually, on average, during 2000–2019. Anchoveta (Engraulis ringens) comprised 28%, by estimate midpoint. Estimated numbers in 2019, totalling 980–1,900 billion, were lower due to reduced anchoveta landings, but still represented 87.5% of vertebrate numbers killed for food or feed, as obtained or estimated from FAO data. These figures exclude unrecorded capture such as illegal fishing, discards and ghost fishing. Estimated finfish numbers used for reduction to fishmeal and oil represented 56% of the total 2010 estimate (1,000–1,900 billion), by midpoint. It is recommended that the FAO reports fish capture numbers. The welfare of wild-caught fishes, which is generally very poor during and after capture, should be addressed as part of sustainable utilisation of aquatic resources.

Mood, A., & Brooke, P. (2024). Estimating global numbers of fishes caught from the wild annually from 2000 to 2019. Animal Welfare, 33. https://doi.org/10.1017/awf.2024.7 

Abstract:

Introduction: Plant-based meats (PBM) are an emerging set of food technologies that could reduce the environmental impacts of food systems by mitigating consumer demand for animal products. However, scaling up the production and consumption of plant-based meats requires overcoming multiple technological, regulatory, political, and market barriers. An evidence-based prioritization of needs and actions may help actors (e.g., investors, funders, policymakers) who wish to help scale PBM achieve desired outcomes with limited resources.

Research question: What actions could most effectively help to scale up the production and/or consumption of plant-based meat in Brazil?

Methods: We selected Brazil as a case study of a country with a significant animal agriculture sector and a burgeoning PBM sector. We constructed a panel of nine experts and employed the Delphi technique during two rounds of an online survey to iteratively assess the degree of consensus and disagreement around the relative priority of 14 possible actions (identified from relevant literature) that could help to scale up the production and/or consumption of PBM in Brazil. We used the Importance, Neglect, and Tractability framework.

Results: The panelists collectively concluded that the top priority action for scaling up both the production and the consumption of plant-based meat in Brazil was to reduce the price of products for consumers. For most priority actions, there was greater consensus among panelists in the second round of the survey.

Discussion: Our findings contribute to an improved understanding of (a) which actions may be of highest priority for investors, funders, and policymakers, (b) synergies and differences between priority actions to scale up the production versus consumption of PBM in Brazil, (c) the relative merits of focusing on scaling up PBM production versus consumption, and (d) the strengths and limitations of assessing expert opinion on alternative protein futures using the Delphi technique.

Newton, P., Eichhorst, W., Hegwood, M., Morais-da-Silva, R. L., Heidemann, M. S., Hoffmann, A., & Reis, G. G. (2024). Price above all else: an analysis of expert opinion on the priority actions to scale up production and consumption of plant-based meat in Brazil. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1303448 

Abstract:

With plant-based meat increasing in popularity, this study intends to analyze the challenges of popularizing plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) and investigate the incentives to enhance future consumption. We investigate a PBMAs producer's distribution channel selection strategies of direct-sell-to-consumer (DSTC) and indirect-sell-to-consumer (Non-DSTC), as well as the decisions for wholesale price, product eco-friendly level and research and development (R&D) investment on sustainable food products. We first examine global meat consumption trends and the emergence of PBMAs and consumer perceptions. We incorporate game-theoretic models with consumer environmental consciousness (CEC) and producer's investment decisions in a multi-channel food supply chain. Social welfare has been used to explore the effects of CEC and the competition of distribution channels on the food supply chain. Our results show that stakeholders in different channels could adopt a Co-opetition strategy to make the pie bigger. Numerical analysis shows that members of the food supply chain benefit from a higher CEC in both channel settings. This study provides insights for managerial decisions on investment in technological innovation in the food industry in terms of social, environmental and technological aspects.

Pang, S., & Chen, M.-C. (2024). Investigating the impact of consumer environmental consciousness on food supply chain: The case of plant-based meat alternatives. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 201, 123190. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2023.123190 

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of Romantic notions in understanding contemporary human–animal relations. I examined how three documentaries dealing with the problem of farm-animal exploitation construct the relationship between farmers and meat producers on the one hand and farm animals on the other. Using the method of multimodal critical discourse analysis, I examined audiovisual and linguistic levels of documentaries. I argue that documentary narratives have a dual function in exploring these relationships. First, they produce anthropocentric narratives that focus on the farmer’s perspective and their experience of the relationship with farm animals. The anthropocentric narrative legitimizes the notions of traditional forms of sustainable agriculture in which animals graze freely, and a relationship of trust exists between farm animals and farmers. In this narrative, farm animals are portrayed as anthropomorphized and thus equal to humans. Ideologically, it follows the premodern idea of pastoralism. The second narrative is biocentric in that it focuses primarily on animals. This narrative consists of a critique of the exploitation of farm animals in large, industrialized fattening farms and slaughterhouses. I argue that the origins of both narratives lie in Romantic notions about the relationship between humans and animals. Ultimately, both narratives propagate a Romantic return to preindustrial pastoralism, advocating a harmonious coexistence of land, animals, and people, and rejecting industrial, mechanical, and technological forms of farm animal husbandry. I conclude by asking how Romantic ideas contest late capitalist forms of commodification of animals and what the limits of these ideas are in eliminating the exploitation of farm animals.

Vezovnik, A. (2024). Humans and farm animals in documentary film narratives: A romantic perspective on the problem of capitalist meat production. Anthrozoös, 1–19. https://doi.org/10.1080/08927936.2024.2308404 

Abstract:

In his book Just Fodder, Josh Milburn combines insights from animal ethics, the philosophy of food, and food ethics to discuss the ethical issues concerning humans feeding nonhuman animals. His ethical framework relies on negative, interest-based rights not to be harmed and killed, which sentient animals have towards moral agents. He extends these rights with relationship-based, positive duties that humans have towards certain nonhuman animals if humans are responsible for them being dependent on humans. Milburn’s exploration of different human-animal relations makes further distinctions than Donaldson & Kymlicka’s Zoopolis (2011) in which they differentiate between citizens, sovereign states, and denizens. In Just Fodder, Milburn introduces five different relational modes for nonhuman animals, which are animal family (companions), animal neighbours/friends and foes (free-living animals in gardens and houses), animal thieves (animals dying in crop farming), animal refugees (wild animals in rescue centres), and animal strangers (wild animals).

Simultaneously, Milburn takes an extensionist approach, thus, he extends existing concepts to nonhuman animals rather than developing a new utopia, which makes it rather pragmatic and non-ideal. Based on this framework, Milburn manages to avoid uncomfortable and counterintuitive conclusions by exploring which human actions are still permissible when granting all sentient animals rights. Interesting cases are dumpster diving animal products, roadkill, eggs of high-welfare backyard hens, or the feeding of cultivated meat or maybe-sentient invertebrates to companions, which are not necessarily at odds with interest-based rights. While this extensionist framework can help reach such sensible conclusions, it can be criticized from two perspectives, which are (1) from a pragmatist perspective for not being practical enough, and (2) from an idealist perspective for not questioning the assumptions of the system, which is extended. In this review, I mostly focus on the first type of critique, while briefly linking to possible issues of the second type.

In animal ethics, there is a distinction between “internal and external reasons” not to kill animals. While external reasons refer to abstract principles or characteristics of the moral patient, internal reasons emerge through reflection and guide moral actions based on the desire to be consistent with one’s moral beliefs (Gruen 2011, p.42). A rights-based framework thus refers to these external reasons, while internal reasons would harmonise more with an extensionist approach given its inherently non-ideal character. This is because internal reasons are closer to the moral agent’s way of decision-making, which is argued to be highly intuitive rather than based on reason (Haidt 2001). For this reason, the relation-based arguments Milburn gives seem to work well intuitively. Accordingly, I want to add an internal reason to Josh Milburn’s ethical framework developed in Just Fodder based on virtue ethics, care ethics and Jonathan Haidt’s social intuitionist approach to moral judgement.

Borgdorf, L. (2024). Josh Milburn’s just fodder: the ethics of feeding animals. Food Ethics, 9(1), 10. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41055-023-00140-8 

Abstract:

n/a

Faunalytics. (2024). Faunalytics Index – February 2024. Retrieved March 18, 2024, from https://faunalytics.org/faunalytics-index-february-2024/ 

Abstract:

While all animal advocacy organizations have clear mission statements, priorities, and tactics that guide both day-to-day activities and big-picture planning, groups vary in how they use data in their decision-making. There is a growing interest in the animal advocacy ecosystem across many focal areas in taking evidence-based actions and having a research foundation for statements and positions. However, some organizations hypothesize that research and data might not be seen as relevant or able to be integrated with these foundational commitments.

In the animal advocacy space, Faunalytics acts as a knowledge broker, committed to what’s known as knowledge translation: the process of moving research, data, evidence from original researchers and research outputs into formats and framings for a wide range of actors. That’s why Faunalytics commissioned this study about the use of research in animal advocacy. This isn’t a program evaluation: none of the interview questions mentioned Faunalytics, though several of the participants did in their answers. 

The purpose of this study is to explore how animal advocacy organizations access, interpret, and use research, data, and other forms of evidence in their work. The research project included primary data collection through interviews and thematic analysis of the interview transcripts. Participants were 20 staff members of animal advocacy organizations around the world, all of which include farmed animals in their mandate.

Faunalytics. (2024). Research And Data As Tools In Advocates’ Decision-Making. Retrieved March 18, 2024, from https://faunalytics.org/research-and-data-as-tools/ 

Abstract:

Meatless Monday is a global movement that encourages people to reduce meat in their diets for their own health and the health of the planet. We conducted a comprehensive review of primary and secondary sources and archival material documenting the origins, historical roots, and growth of Meatless Monday and simultaneous developments in public health. Sources for the paper included publications of the US Food Administration and articles and media identified using searches of ProQuest Historical Newspapers, Newspapers.com Academic, ProQuest US Newsstream, ProQuest Canadian Newstream, ProQuest International Newsstream databases, and Google.com. Meatless Monday was conceived by the advertising executive and public health advocate Sid Lerner in 2003, inspired by the meatless days observed during World War I and II. Meatless Monday grew steadily from 2003 to 2023 through advocacy by food writers, talk show hosts, and celebrity chefs, and through participation by schools, cities, restaurants, corporations, and institutions worldwide. School systems began to observe Meatless Monday, such as Baltimore City Public Schools in 2009 and New York City Public Schools in 2019. Meat-Free Monday campaign was launched by Paul McCartney and his daughters in 2009 in the United Kingdom. The Humane Society of the United States became an advocate for Meatless Monday and helped institute it in >200 US school systems. From 2003 to 2023, Meatless Monday spread to over 40 countries and was observed in public schools in countries such as Brazil, Ireland, and Belgium. Findings regarding high meat consumption and its adverse effects on health, high greenhouse gas production and environment degradation, and problems with animal welfare under conditions of industrial food animal production emerged during the same period and influenced many to advocate Meatless Monday. Meatless days of World War I and II were driven by patriotic motivations to provide food for the US troops and the Allies in Europe, whereas motivations for observing Meatless Monday were largely related to concerns regarding personal health, the environment, and animal welfare. Meatless Monday grew from relatively humble origins to a highly recognized worldwide movement with wide appeal as a way to begin reducing meat consumption for personal and planetary health.

Semba, R. D., Neu, P., Berg, P., Harding, J., McKenzie, S., & Ramsing, R. (2024). The origins and growth of the Meatless Monday movement. Frontiers in Nutrition, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1283239 

Abstract:

Shifts from direct implementation to advocacy-based programming have been documented across many non-governmental organisation (NGO) sectors, including animal welfare. Semi-structured interviews with 32 staff from different positions within animal welfare NGOs explored recent programming changes. Maintaining a balance between direct implementation and advocacy-based activities emerged as a strong theme. The findings suggest that risks are associated with both the direct implementation status quo and transitioning to an advocacy-based focus. Risks of the former include treating symptoms rather than root causes of welfare problems. Organisational change can be disruptive and necessitates realignment of core competences, in turn influencing NGO mission. Identified risks of transition include loss of individuals whose values fail to align with new programming directions, increased upwards accountability requirements for accessing institutional donors and difficulties when phasing out direct implementation approaches. Whilst having to be dynamic, NGOs need to evaluate the risks associated with programming decisions, considering their vision, mission and staff identity in order to ensure that welfare programming is as effective as possible.

Haddy, E., Proops, L., Burden, F., Raw, Z., Kaminski, J., & Brown, J. (2024). “We forgot about the donkeys!” An institutional analysis of the shift in animal welfare from direct implementation towards advocacy-based programming. Animal Welfare, 33. https://doi.org/10.1017/awf.2024.11 

Abstract:

This paper explores the fusion of data science and cognitive techniques in deciphering the behaviors and emotions of farm animals. The focus is on the strategic application of digital imaging and artificial intelligence to discern subtle behavioral patterns and micro-expressions in livestock, offering a predictive window into their emotional states. The significance of acoustic vocalization analysis in interpreting complex communicative signals and emotional subtleties is highlighted. The work extends to cognitive evaluations, such as mirror tests and bias assessments, revealing higher levels of self-awareness and cognitive abilities in farm animals than previously recognized. Emphasizing the need for a synergistic approach, the paper advocates for melding technological advancements with a deep understanding of animal psychology and behavior. This ensures that technology enhances rather than supplants traditional observational methods in animal welfare. The discussion delves into various methodologies and algorithms that measure cognition, underscoring the pivotal role of cognitive computing in advancing animal welfare. A cautious and informed application of these technologies is proposed, emphasizing their role in augmenting, not undermining, the essential human-animal bond. Ultimately, this critical review calls for an ethical, empathetic, and scientifically grounded integration of cognitive computing into animal welfare practices.

Neethirajan, S. (2024). From Predictive Analytics to Emotional Recognition - The evolving landscape of cognitive computing in animal welfare. International Journal of Cognitive Computing in Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcce.2024.02.003 

Abstract:

Since eating patterns around the world vary substantially, the impact of changing dietary behaviours, meal composition, or ingredients is also likely to vary between countries, regions, and continents. The per-capita consumption of meat might be quite similar in two different regions, but one region might consume more pork while the other consumes more poultry – thus a meat-reduction intervention might spare more animals in the latter country. Furthermore, there are other differences that have an impact on eating patterns: for example, the yield per animal (meat, milk, eggs) might be quite different in different regions, again affecting the number of animals needed to produce a certain quantity of meat, milk, or eggs. Last but not least, the consumption of animal products per person might be low in some regions, while total production might be quite high due to a large population (or export industry).

In order to take all of the above into account, we use data on production and consumption provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) since they provide a comprehensive overview of all countries, regions, and continents. Note that we have chosen 2016 as the baseline year for our calculations.

ProVeg International. (2024). How we calculate animal savings through replacing ingredients or meals. https://proveg.org/how-we-calculate-animal-savings-through-replacing-ingredients-or-meals/ 

Abstract:

The literature on the epistemology of ignorance already discusses how certain forms of discrimination, such as racism and sexism, are perpetuated by the ignorance of individuals and groups. However, little attention has been given to how speciesism—a form of discrimination on the basis of species membership—is sustained through ignorance. Of the few animal ethicists who explicitly discuss ignorance, none have related this concept to speciesism as a form of discrimination. However, it is crucial to explore this connection, I argue, as ignorance is both an integral part of the injustice done to animals as well as an obstacle to improving their treatment. In order to adequately criticize sustained structural speciesism and injustices towards animals, I develop an epistemological account of ‘speciesist ignorance’. I begin by defining and distinguishing between individual and group-based accounts of speciesist ignorance. I argue that humans, taken as a group, enjoy a position of privilege, which allows them to comfortably remain ignorant of their participation in collective wrongdoings towards animals. Additionally, I point out that speciesist ignorance is structurally encouraged and thereby maintains the dominant view that the human-animal-relationship, as it stands, is just. In sum, this article lays the groundwork for a social epistemology of speciesist ignorance. In particular, it informs further debate about individual and institutional epistemic duties to inquire into speciesism and to inform the public, about the moral culpability of ignorant actions, and about effective animal advocacy and policy which actively rejects speciesist ignorance.

van den Brandeler, E. (2024). Towards an epistemology of ‘speciesist ignorance.’ Res Publica (Liverpool, England). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11158-024-09656-0 

Abstract: 

Animal welfare is closely linked to animal health and human welfare and health, as the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) emphasizes in its Global Animal Welfare Strategy of 2017. As a result of recent pandemics, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the WOAH have created the One Health High Level Expert Panel (OHHLEP), committed to animal health and human health in the One Health Joint Plan of Action (2022–2026) and pledged to “[work] together for the Health of Humans, Animals, Plants and the Environment.” Despite these important acknowledgments and efforts from leading world organizations, including the One Health quadripartite, the latter has so far been reluctant to actively pursue the adoption of a legally binding commitment to improve the protection and welfare of animals globally. Animal welfare remains without relevant provisions.

In the following, it is argued this must be integrated into the OHHLEP in addition to the creation of an “Animal Think and Do Tank” in the form of a technical working group, which would finalize a UN Convention on the issue, as proposed, e.g., in the drafted UN Convention on Animal Health and Protection (UNCAHP) 2018. The “Animal Think and Do Tank,” within its One Health context, must manifest a transdisciplinary approach, since – unlike globally binding legislation – policies, agreements, and declarations of various world organizations do not suffice to bring about a fundamental change in animal welfare. Acknowledging that animal protection is a complex and multifaceted issue involving ethical, cultural, social, religious, political, economic, and scientific dimensions (GAL Association, 2018, Preamble), these aspects must be represented within the decision making process regarding the Convention’s content. Besides veterinarians, experts of further disciplines related to One Health must be consulted – such as lawyers and legal academics specializing in animal, international, and UN law, competent representatives of the animal welfare and animal rights movements, and ethicists and economists. Measures must be taken to improve transparency and overall confidence in the dialogue between the actors, including competent and not specifically scientific representatives of the animal protection and animal rights movement as elements of civil society to advocate for the fundamental interests of animals.

Goetschel, A. F. (2024). Animal welfare as the basis of One Health: A UN convention on animal welfare, health, and protection poses a realistic solution to improved animal welfare and human health. CABI One Health. https://doi.org/10.1079/cabionehealth.2024.0003 

Abstract:

The sustainable protein transition within a broader food system transition currently lacks a consistent and coherent policy approach. Policies related to protein production are not aligned with consumption-based policies and are embedded in different jurisdictions. Exemplified by the case of Austria, this study aims to assess the current policy mix and explore how it could be designed to support a sustainable protein transition. We apply the six policy intervention points framework to identify gaps and complement it with the analytical characteristics in/coherence, in/consistency. Results show that the lack of regime destabilising measures, such as targeting reduced meat consumption, is a significant gap in the current policy mix. We see the failure to address the repercussions of regime shifts as the root cause blocking further regime destabilisation. Furthermore, we suggest integrating the element of sequences of intervention points to the framework for future research.

Hundscheid, L., Voigt, C., Bergthaler, D., Plank, C., Wurzinger, M., & Melcher, A. H. (2024). Policy mix for the sustainable protein transition in Austria - Addressing repercussions of regime shifts as a prerequisite for acceleration. Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 51, 100819. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eist.2024.100819 

Abstract:

In this article, we describe and analyse the Swiss legislation relating to animal dignity. We conclude that previous criticisms of the law do not go far enough: far from protecting animal dignity, the Swiss law not only undermines such dignity but itself serves as a means to ensure that animals can be used merely as a means, and not treated with respect. As such, the Swiss Animal Welfare Act is deeply unethical and undermines the constitutional requirement to treat animals with dignity.

Shaw, D., Rodriguez Perez, C., & Persson, K. (2024). Slaying the swiss unicorn of animal dignity. Animals : An Open Access Journal from MDPI, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14030507

Abstract: 

n/a

Hiddema, K. (2023, May 8). The role of disgust imagery in social movements. https://blog.drkristahiddema.com/blog/2023/5/1/the-role-of-disgust-imagery-in-social-movements 

Abstract:

Improving understanding of the intention to choose plant-based food is an important element of climate change mitigation. A cross-sectional survey of 454 North American adults was used to predict their dietary-change intentions from the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the more-recently proposed theory of behavioral choice (TBC). The TPB accounted for 65 percent of the variance in intentions and the TBC accounted for a significantly greater (80 percent) proportion of variance. The strongest predictors of intention were the TBC's sense of obligation, attitude-values-affect (AVA), and habit, and the TBP's social norms. Five interactions also contributed in small but significant ways toward the accounting of the participants' food-choice intentions. Policy implications are discussed.

Gifford, R., Lacroix, K., Asgarizadeh, Z., Ashford Anderson, E., Milne-Ives, M., & Sugrue, P. (2024). Applying the theory of behavioral choice to plant-based dietary intentions. Appetite, 107271. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2024.107271 

Abstract:

Veganism and anarchism are burgeoning worldwide, yet very few studies have examined the psychological characteristics of people belonging to these two anti-oppression groups. The present study investigated whether vegans and anarchists, on the one hand, and activists and non-activists belonging to these two groups, on the other hand, exhibit distinct personality profiles. To this end, a sample of 180 adults who self-identify as vegans or anarchists completed an online socio-demographic questionnaire, the HEXACO Personality Inventory, and the Dark Triad Dirty Dozen. A discriminant function analysis showed that anarchists are more likely than vegans to self-identify as belonging to a gender other than female or male, or to identify with no gender at all. Further, the proportion of men was larger in the anarchist group than in the vegan group. In terms of personality traits, vegans scored higher on the Conscientiousness, Emotionality, and Honesty–Humility dimensions than anarchists did. Anarchists scored higher than vegans on Openness to Experience and Psychopathy. Activists and non-activists were not distinguished based on gender or personality traits. While the dynamics of power and oppression toward humans and toward animals share common factors, the present results suggest that veganism and anarchism attract anti-oppression advocates with distinct personality profiles.

Desjardins, S., Giroux, A., & Gamache, D. (2024). Comparison of personality traits of two anti‐oppression groups: Vegans and anarchists. Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy. https://doi.org/10.1111/asap.12385 

Abstract:

The quality and choices of food contribute significantly to human well-being and support the development of healthy communities worldwide. Despite being the world's largest vegetarian nation, India predominantly follows lacto-vegetarianism, allowing dairy consumption and creating a distinct dietary landscape shaped by influences from religious, social, and cultural beliefs. This complexity, where dairy and cultural-religious factors play pivotal roles, makes India a compelling and unique case for understanding the intricacies of adopting vegan dietary preferences. In the present study, an integrated model derived from the health belief model (HBM), the value attitude behavior (VAB) model, and social stigma was adopted as the theoretical framework. The study analyses the interactive effect of perceived benefits, barriers, environmental beliefs, health beliefs, and anti-speciesism values, with the novel inclusion of social stigma as an independent variable affecting attitudes and intentions toward adopting a vegan diet. To achieve its objective, the study employed a quantitative methodology, recording consumers' responses through a structured questionnaire. The analysis encompassed 504 valid responses from Indian consumers from diverse backgrounds and varied locations. The result unveiled several noteworthy and unique trends. It was found that perceived benefits had a positive impact, while perceived barriers had a negative impact on the health beliefs associated with a vegan diet. Environmental beliefs, health beliefs, and anti-speciesism values exhibited a positive influence on individuals' attitudes toward adopting a vegan diet. Conversely, social stigma had a negative impact on attitudes toward a vegan diet. Attitude emerged as a pivotal mediator, connecting the social stigma to the vegan diet adoption behavior. The findings of the study offer valuable insights for policymakers, manufacturers, and marketers seeking to encourage the adoption of vegan diets in countries with predominantly vegetarian populations. Additionally, the study puts forth actionable strategies, outlined as implications to promote the widespread adoption of the vegan diet.

Shah, S., & Thanki Joshi, H. (2024). Factors shaping the adoption of sustainable vegan diets. International Journal of Consumer Studies, 48(2). https://doi.org/10.1111/ijcs.13034 

Abstract:

Drawing from a case study of child veganism in Switzerland, I bring together parenting culture studies and food studies to ask how veganism relates to the ideology of intensive mothering. Describing five kinds of “vegan labor” – extra foodwork that vegan parents attributed to their vegan lifestyle –, I find that adopting an alternative diet intensifies parental commitment in a gendered way. Discussing these findings against the backdrop of the Swiss culture of nutrition and gender regime, I underline how examining alternative diets can further our understanding of parenting culture, gender roles, and foodwork. Intensive mothering relates to the local culture of nutrition and the meanings attached to specific diets; coupled with socioeconomic privilege, it can also serve as a resource to mitigate social scrutiny and judgment.

Ballif, E. (2024). Vegan labor: the intensification of family foodwork at the intersection of dietary and gender norms. Food, Culture & Society, 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/15528014.2024.2312665