Choosing to stop consuming meat for environmental reasons: exploring the influence of gender and social status variables in Chile

Abstract

PurposeGlobal meat consumption has increased rapidly, which is of concern, given its contribution to environmental destruction. Within this framework, this article aims to analyse the social determinants in relation to stopping red meat consumption for environmental reasons in Chile, with a focus on gender and social status.Design/methodology/approachUsing data from a representative national survey, we estimated six logistic regression models to analyse the social determinants that reduce red meat consumption in Chile.FindingsThe results show that social stratification variables (gender, social class, household income and education) are closely linked with choosing to stop eating red meat for environmental reasons. A possible interpretation of these results is the ambiguous status of red meat in contemporary Chilean society and its symbolic link with masculinity.Research limitations/implicationsThe analysis may be complemented by future research that distinguishes the environmental aspects, which encourage individuals to stop eating red meat. In addition, asking about meat consumption in an environmental survey, may generate social desirability.Originality/valueThe results contribute to understanding which social factors help stop meat consumption within a strong carnism culture. This is relevant since South America is well known for high meat consumption, and few studies have explored the issue of consumption in these countries.