A recent study published in the journal Nutrients has shed light on the support and implementation variables towards the Meat-Free Mondays (MFMs) movement in hospital cafés in Aotearoa, New Zealand. The study involved interviews and online surveys with 194 café employees to understand their involvement in the movement.
The findings of the study showed that more than half of the participants actively contributed to the MFMs movement, and nearly 60% supported it. The study also revealed that greater inclusion and consultation with café employees were the most influential factors in the success of the movement.
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The study highlighted the importance of addressing the qualms of a non-vegetarian diet. The agricultural industry, particularly livestock rearing, is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Meat production requires more land, water, and feed compared to crop production. Furthermore, excessive antibiotic use in livestock rearing has been linked to the risk of diseases.
The New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey found critical deficits in the average NZ citizen’s dietary composition, with low intake of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. NZ has been identified as the 6th largest meat-consuming nation in the world, and prolonged red meat consumption has been associated with various noncommunicable diseases.
To combat these issues, the Meatless Mondays (MMs) campaign, which encourages individuals to forgo meat on Mondays and substitute it with vegetarian options, has gained popularity globally. However, there is limited research on the impacts of MM compliance.
The present study aimed to investigate the enablers and barriers to implementing the MFMs policy in three District Health Boards (DHBs) in NZ. The study found that health and environmental concerns, as well as an affinity for plant-based dishes, were the major enablers of the policy. Knowledge, taste, and familiarity were identified as the primary barriers.
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The study recommended outreach to key players, including café managers, staff, and medical personnel, to ensure the successful implementation of the MFMs policy. The findings provide valuable insights for future policy implementations and emphasize the importance of addressing misconceptions and improving knowledge about the benefits of reducing meat consumption.
Overall, the study contributes to the growing body of research on sustainable dietary practices and highlights the potential of the MFMs movement to promote public and environmental health.
