Americans Are Quietly Cutting Back on Red Meat—Here's Why

More Americans are cutting back on red meat, with nearly 70% reporting a reduction in the past year. A 2025 survey also found that 48% had bought less beef in the previous six months. Despite this shift, most still eat red meat at least once a week—just in smaller amounts than before.

Health concerns are the main driver behind the change, with 64% of those reducing intake citing it as their reason. Another 32% pointed to rising costs, as beef prices reached record highs. Environmental sustainability played a smaller role, influencing just 6% of decisions.

Younger generations are leading the move toward alternatives. Gen Z and millennials are nearly three times more likely than baby boomers to eat plant-based options at least once a month. However, only 11% of Americans identify as flexitarian, despite the broader trend of cutting back.

Those who successfully reduce meat often swap ingredients in familiar dishes. Examples include lentil bolognese or black bean enchiladas. These alternatives can provide substantial protein—cooked lentils offer 18 grams per cup, firm tofu around 20 grams per block, and chickpeas roughly 15 grams per can.

The shift away from red meat continues, driven mostly by health and cost. While plant-based options gain ground, traditional meat remains part of most diets. The trend suggests a gradual rather than sudden change in eating habits across the US.