What's It Like To Go Vegan (for a week)?

Summary

In 'Above the Noise', host Myles Bess explores veganism's impact on health, the environment, and animal welfare. Initially skeptical, Myles documents his journey as he tries vegan food, noting its surprising tastiness and substantial nature. He addresses the meat industry's environmental toll, the rise of plant-based diets, and the challenges of transitioning to veganism. Myles considers the economic implications for farmers and workers, while reflecting on his own dietary habits and the broader societal shift towards sustainable eating.

Takeaways

• 🍽️ Myles Bess, the host, initially resists the idea of a vegan diet but is open to trying it.
• 🌱 The producer's vegan lifestyle prompts a discussion on the environmental impact of meat and dairy consumption.
• 🌍 Scientists suggest reducing meat and dairy intake as one of the best ways to combat climate change.
• 🥗 Myles finds vegan food options that are both satisfying and filling, dispelling his initial concerns.
• 🐄 The meat industry's massive scale leads to significant animal slaughter and environmental degradation.
• 🌿 Despite growing up with vegetarian influences, Myles realizes he lives in a bubble where veganism is not the norm.
• 📈 There's a noticeable increase in plant-based food product sales, especially during the pandemic.
• 🧪 Lab-grown meat represents a significant advancement in reducing animal suffering and environmental impact.
• 🥦 Myles explores the health implications of a meat-centric diet and considers the nutritional value of plant-based alternatives.
• 🌱 Myles experiences an increase in energy levels and considers reducing his meat consumption after trying a vegan diet.
• 🌐 The script highlights the global implications of meat and dairy production, including food security and economic livelihoods.

Q & A

What is Myles Bess' initial attitude towards veganism?

Myles Bess initially dismisses veganism, thinking it's not cool and that he could never give up eating meat and other delicious foods.

What does Myles decide to do after being persuaded by a vegan producer?

After being persuaded by a vegan producer, Myles decides to start a vegan food diary and explore vegan options.

How does Myles describe his first experience with vegan food?

Myles finds his first vegan food experience to be surprisingly good, stating that it wasn't as bad as he expected.

What is one of the main reasons scientists suggest reducing meat consumption?

Scientists suggest reducing meat consumption to help combat climate change, as it's one of the best ways to reduce one's environmental impact.

What are some of the issues associated with high meat consumption according to the script?

High meat consumption is associated with problems like climate change, animal welfare, food security, and health issues.

What is the current percentage of vegetarians and vegans in America according to the script?

In 2018, only 5% of Americans identified as vegetarians, and vegans made up only 3%.

How has the popularity of plant-based food products grown in the US?

Sales of plant-based food products in the US grew 29% to $5 billion in just two years, with growth accelerating due to the pandemic.

What is Myles' reaction to the idea of cultured meat?

Myles is both curious and a bit frightened by the idea of cultured meat but is more curious than frightened and is willing to try it.

What is Myles' concern about vegan food in terms of satiety?

Myles is concerned that vegan food might not be as filling as meat and that he might get hungry an hour after eating.

What is the environmental impact of the meat industry according to the script?

The meat industry has a significant environmental impact, using excessive amounts of land, water, and generating a large portion of greenhouse gases.

What is the script's perspective on the future of the meat industry and the global population?

The script highlights that by 2050, there will be 2 billion more people to feed, and the current meat industry is not sustainable or efficient in terms of food security and environmental impact.