The type of protein you choose to eat can have an impact on the environment as well as your personal health. Animals are less efficient at converting energy they consume via grazing and feedlots into protein calories for humans than plants such as soy and legumes. In particular, beef and lamb require large amounts of land and freshwater. About three-quarters of agricultural land around the world is used to raise livestock, whereas meat and dairy provide only 1/3rd of protein consumed by humans. Cattle also produce large amounts of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) estimates that approximately 18% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are produced by livestock, mostly in the forms of methane and nitrous oxide, and mostly produced by cattle, sheep, and goats. Remember that cheese and dairy are also animal-based protein sources. Clearing land for grazing and grain production to feed animals also takes an environmental toll.
On the other hand, as your textbook points out (pg. 163-164), animal protein provides a complete assortment of all amino acids, the building blocks used to form protein. The quality of plant-based proteins varies from high quality (soy and legumes) to less complete profiles. Eating a wide variety of vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes (including lentils and soy products) will guarantee adequate intake of all amino acids, including the essential ones and a balanced protein profile in your diet. Take a look at Tables 1 and 2 of Discussion #2 PowerPoint (available in Module 6 on Proteins and Amino Acids) to see which food choices are more “climate efficient” than others. Read the short article, “Shining the Light on Plant Proteins.” Then respond to these questions:
1. In the material presented, list at least one fact you read that made you think more seriously about eating less meat and explain why you think so. If you weren’t convinced, and you plan to keep your diet as it is, provide two reasons for keeping your current diet. (6 points)
2. Do you think Americans would be willing to reduce the amount of animal-based proteins in their diet, knowing the impact they have on climate change? Suggest two ways people can reduce animal proteins in their diet. (6 points)
3. What might make a diet that’s lower in animal proteins more appealing to you or your friends and family who may enjoy large amounts of meat? State at least one strategy to accomplish this. (4 points) 4. Name a situation you may encounter where eating a meatless meal could present barriers and suggest a solution for it. (4 points)
Please use in-text citations to support your viewpoint to receive credit.
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