With a recent survey showing that four out of ten adults report they are eating more vegetarian meals than they did a couple of years ago, it’s time to take a look at your own family’s meal patterns.
Hippie food?
“By giving vegetarian meals a go, people will be doing their wallet, their health and the environment a big favour. Once people try, they will see just how many delicious, healthy and easy options there are for plant-based eating,” she said.
Plant based meals makes cents
A comprehensive comparison of three seven day meal plans was undertaken by Ms Guy and team: a traditional meat diet; a diet moderate in meat; and a vegetarian lifestyle. Accredited Practising Dietitians compiled healthy and nutritious menus for each diet, with all snacks and drinks included. How much each plan costs in dollar terms was decided by a trip to the supermarket purchasing all foods based on a family of four adults.
The findings were surprising:
Traditional meat diet
Cost four adults just under $195 a week, or $50 per person in meat alone. One week’s worth of food for four adults eating under this menu clocks up a hefty $508 or $127 per person.
Vegetarian diet A massive 20% reduction in costs can be achieved by maintaining the vegetarian diet. The menu was by far the easiest on the hip pocket, coming in at $394 for four adults or just over $98 per person.
Moderate meat diet A reduction in the amount of meat consumed saved four adults almost $90 a week, with the meat reducer diet (comprised of 2 chicken meals, 2 fish meals and one red meat meal) coming in at $418 per week or $104 per person.
YOUR SAY: Will you include more vegetartian options in your weekly meals? Tell us below…
