Australia has long been a country of meat-eaters. From advertising that encourages us to “get a bit of pork on your fork” to cultural staples like the Bunnings sausage sizzle, the taste of meat is one we’ve grown up with. But in recent times, thanks to the likes of documentaries like The Game Changers and our own grasp of the news cycle and current events, our intake of meat has reduced dramatically. Now, plant-based diets are heralded not as a trend, but as a lifestyle that’s more sustainable, environmentally-friendly and healthy, too.
New research from Toluna, a consumer intelligence platform, has shown that only one in five Australians eat meat every day. In a survey of 1,026 Australians, it was found that health concerns were the driving factor for the dietary shift that’s now seen consumers drive demand for everything from grocery shopping to fast-food purchases. In Toluna’s research, they found that of those who ate meat, 25 per cent had reduced their meat consumption, with a further 19 per cent planning to reduce their meat consumption in the future. Almost half the meat eaters surveyed aim to have 1-2 meat free days per week, while 24 per cent go meat-free three to four days a week.
When it comes to the environment, a new study has found that the global production of meat is responsible for 28 times more greenhouse gas emissions than plant-based foods, according to reports by The Guardian. The findings echo those of previous research, reaffirming the importance of more sustainable options. As climate scientist Atul Jain told the publication, “A lot of this comes down to personal choice. You can’t just impose your views on others. But if people are concerned about climate change, they should seriously consider changing their dietary habits.”
As for the health benefits of plant-based diets, there are far too many to list. Science has found that going plant-based has helped to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, help prevent type 2 diabetes, and lower cholesterol levels. Ultimately, going plant-based has a number of benefits that extend far beyond those of diet alone. As Maya Feller, RD, CND, a dietitian based in Brooklyn, NY and author of The Southern Comfort Food Diabetes Cookbook, told Everyday Health, “Whether you are an animal lover, an environmental advocate, or want to live your healthiest life, being plant based is the one underlying thread that seems to be compelling so many of us.”
With that in mind, and with meat-free week taking place this week, we’ve compiled five of our favourite apps that make going vegan and cruelty-free easy. Whether it’s dietary or lifestyle changes you’re making, these apps not only take the guesswork out of the equation, but also connect you to a community of people looking to live sustainably and ethically.
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CTyTzM_J7DT/
Abillion
With the aim to unite vegans and veg-curious people around the world, Abillion has created a platform for like-minded people to get together with the sole desire of living more sustainably and ethically. It recommends nearby restaurants that offer plant-based food, allows members to review vegan and sustainable products, and also provides users with a platform to share news, ideas and ask questions.
Abillion also works to raise money for various causes with a description for the app reading: “Every review drives real impact through our unique giving program. Whenever you post a review, Abillion credits you with US$1 that, through the app, you can donate to one of the almost 70 charities or impactful causes we support.”
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CTz2dRrJH9A/
Cruelty Cutter
Available on Apple iOS and Android, this app allows users to scan product barcodes in order to see whether the items are tested on animals, or if they are in fact cruelty-free. It’s particularly helpful for those items you might be using in your beauty routine that you’ve never really paid close attention to.
If all that wasn’t enough, Cruelty Cutter users can also earn ‘Doggie Dollars’ by urging companies to ditch unethical practices by posting online. The Doggie Dollars can be redeemed for discounts on cruelty-free products, making it easier than ever to raise awareness about animal welfare issues and spread awareness on ways to get involved.
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CLuh6q1psfK/
Dr. Greger’s Daily Dozen
This app helps users navigate the ins and outs of plant-based nutrition and is inspired by the book How Not To Die, which was penned by physician Dr Michael Greger and author Gene Stone.
The app recommends vegan food which can help meet a person’s daily nutritional needs and also features recommended servings and a weight tracker for those who are looking to lose weight, maintain, or even gain weight. It’s available on Apple iOS and Android.
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CSmP7WaNrNO/
Grazer
Grazer is a social app with a mission, and looks to connect vegans and vegetarians with like-minded individuals who share their values. It might sound like a vegan version of Tinder, and in fact it can actually be used for romantic connections, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead, Grazer can also be used to just make new friends, making it particularly useful when travelling if you’re interested to find the local vegan and vegetarian restaurants or hangs.
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CTzDlrBLs5K/
VNutrition
For those just starting out as vegan or vegetarian, it can often feel like a daunting process. Particularly if you are someone who is highly active, ensuring you meet your nutritional needs can be tough. Thankfully, VNutrition serves as a self-assessment tool that allows users to track their nutritional progress, with a daily checklist that encourages people to hit nutritional targets by consuming enough fruit, vegetables, protein and omega-3 fats, amongst other things.
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