Meat Free Week

Bowel Cancer Australia is challenging Australians to try a plant-based menu for seven days.

The latest statistics released by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics found that the average Australian now consumes 27.9kg of pork per year, more than double the 11.7kg in 1975. In addition, Aussies eat around 27.9kg of beef per person, per year. 

The World Health Organisation has classified red meat – including, beef, veal, pork, lamb, mutton, horse, and goat – as “probably carcinogenic to humans”. 

WHO found an even stronger link between processed meat – such as salami and hotdogs, and bowel cancer. Listing the consumption of processed meat as carcinogenic to humans.

Studies conducted by the World Cancer Research Fund show bowel cancer risk increases by 17% per 100g of red meat consumed per day and that bowel cancer risk increases by 18% per 50g of processed meat consumed per day. 

If you choose to eat red meat, research recommends limiting the amount to 500 grams per week and to avoid processed meats; such as bacon, ham and salami. On average, Australians consume 565 grams of red meat per week.

The goal is that with education, awareness and the information to make informed choices, meat-eaters will consider portion sizes if including meat as part of a balanced diet during the other 51 weeks of the year.  

Meat Free Week is all about raising awareness. For meat lovers, it’s not about promoting a complete shift to a vegetarian or vegan diet. The campaign supports a pause and opportunity for people to make more informed decisions if they’re eating over the recommended intake.

This article was written and published by bowel cancer Australia. the full article can be found here https://www.meatfreeweek.org/what-is-meat-free-week