Number Of Farm Animals Killed Drops! January 21, 2010
In Vegan Outreach’s weekly newsletter, I received some fantastic news.
“The total number of land animals killed for food in the U.S. in 2008 was down 0.6% from 2007, at 10,279 billion, despite a 1% increase in U.S. population, according to data extrapolated from the USDA.”
The population went up but the amount of animals slaughtered went down. That’s pretty remarkable. With more veg options available in pretty much every super market, and health reports released daily on the benefits of eating less meat, people are taking notice and changing their habits. I don’t know about you but so many people in my life have reduced the amount of meat they eat for health reasons. Some have gone completely veg for ethical reasons.
I remember seventeen years ago when I was eleven, being a vegetarian was a little more fringe. We had no sexy vegan shoes (just payless) and no whole section in the super market devoted to our needs. Soy milk is now a staple in many people’s homes. So are veggie burgers.
What’s my point? We’re doing good work. The message is getting through. Lives are being saved. Keep up the great work and take a moment to pat yourself on the back. You’ve earned it. We all have.
I agree completely. It is very encouraging to see the reverse correlation in the population vs. the amount of animals slaughtered for food. Like you, it seems that I am engaged in food conversations daily and more and more people are interested in healthier, more humane food options. I love it!