Why Americans Are Ditching Red Meat in Record Numbers

More Americans are cutting back on red meat, with nearly 70% reporting a reduction in the past year. A September 2025 survey showed 48% had bought less beef in the previous six months alone. Health concerns and cost appear to be the main drivers behind the shift.

The reasons for eating less red meat vary. Health worries pushed 64% of people to make changes, while 32% pointed to rising prices. Environmental concerns played a smaller role, influencing just 6% of those reducing their intake.

Most Americans still eat red meat one to four times a week, but many say they now consume it less often. Younger generations are leading the change: Gen Z and millennials are nearly three times more likely than baby boomers to choose plant-based alternatives at least once a month.

Successful meat reducers often swap ingredients in familiar dishes. Popular alternatives include lentil bolognese instead of beef, black bean enchiladas, and chickpeas in peanut butter curry. These swaps provide plenty of protein—cooked lentils offer about 18 grams per cup, firm tofu around 20 grams per block, and a can of chickpeas roughly 15 grams.

Despite the trend, only 11% of Americans identify as flexitarian, according to a December 2024 survey. Awareness campaigns like Meatless Monday have gained some traction, with 40% of American women knowing about it and 20% taking part.

The shift away from red meat is clear, with health and price driving most changes. While younger consumers embrace plant-based options more often, the majority still include meat in their diets—just in smaller amounts. The trend suggests a gradual but steady move toward more flexible eating habits.