‘Research shows that when it comes to trying out a plant-based diet, encouragement from partners, family and friends can be really helpful’

Almost half of Brits who’ve turned vegetarian or vegan have done so for a partner, according to a new poll, the Sun reports.

International vegan food brand Fry Family Food Co, who carried out the survey with 1,000 adults via OnePoll, found a whopping 46 per cent state they had tried a vegetarian or plant-based diet at some point, with a partner encouraging the swap in 49 per cent of these cases.

In another study involving 2,000 people, which was again commissioned by the food brand, 18 per cent said they made the switch to please their other half.

The second poll’s findings showed that while 19 per cent went plant-based to support their partners’ healthy eating choices, a third admitted they were only able to give up meat following the encouragement of their other half.

19 percent swapped their diet for their friends while 16 percent were persuaded by their children.

The poll also revealed that 53 per cent felt healthier and more energetic since adopting a plant-based diet.

Of the people who switched to plant-based eating, 80 percent found the transition easier than expected and only seven per cent admitted that they faced difficulties adjusting to the new meat-less norm, especially missing chicken, bacon and sausages at dinner meals.

The study pointed out that apart from missing meat, the ones who found it difficult to go vegan or vegetarian cited factors including a family member objecting to the new diet, lack of options when eating out, never being able to find easy takeaway options, and finally having to cook their own veggie meals as key contributors.

‘Encouragement can be really helpful’

Tammy Fry, from The Fry Family Food Co said: “Our research shows that when it comes to trying out a plant-based diet, encouragement from partners, family and friends can be really helpful.

“Whether it’s sharing experiences, advice or handy meal tips, talking to loved ones about the benefits of swapping to a meat-free diet can go a long way in encouraging others to reduce their meat or dairy consumption.”

‘Never been easier’

She added: “Our research has revealed that those who follow a plant-based diet feel healthier, have more energy, and most importantly, found the change in the diet far easier to adapt to than they could have imagined.

“We’re keen to encourage as many people as possible to try going meat-free, even if it’s just making an easy swap once or twice a week.

“It’s never been easier to introduce meat-free options into your diet, without compromising the taste or quality of your meal.”

To further encourage people to make the switch, The Fry Family Food Co. is giving away a years’ worth of Meat-Free Chicken-Style Nuggets, if they commit to go plant-based at least once a week.

• Read: Plant-based food market to be worth $74.2 billion by 2027, says report

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Mohsina Dodhiya

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