Vegetarianism


To tofu, or not to tofu, that is the question. Every study claims to have discovered the “best” or “most balanced” diet. Yet, in my experience, these articles often contradict one another. We all have friends who claim to vegetarianism. I must inquire as to why these people chose to omit meat in their diets. Although some claim that a meat-based diet is unethical, and a vegetarian diet should be preferred for health benefits, it is actually true that vegetarianism is less beneficial to humans and to society because of the human digestive system and new slaughtering technologies. The largest issues of controversy concerning human diets revolve around social issues, animal ethics, and health benefits.

Vegetarians claim that this no-meat diet contributes to a benevolent society, specifically when discussing world hunger. Nathan Fiala of the Scientific American claims that a vegetarian diet helps alleviate world hunger in his “The Greenhouse Hamburger.” By feeding grains to humans instead of animals, the meat products not being consumed could be fed to those suffering from hunger.

Although it cannot be disputed that feeding meat produce to those starving worldwide is a possibility, one must keep in mind the implications of this strategy. There are multiple flaws in the theory. Mainly, when discussing economics. Simply not consuming the meat products produced in the US does not keep them from being produced. If the same number of meat foods are being manufactured, but are not being consumed, then the meat industry is not making a profit. Vegetarianism can actually cause economic downturn and inflation, contributing further to the recession of today’s economy. And a new product will have to be purchased or grown to feed the animals used in the meat industry in order for the grains to be consumed en masse by the human population. The supply of a new product can only mean an extra charge on the country’s treasury, increasing debt. (Kirby). There are other aspects, such as animals, which concern this argument as well.

Many believe that it is unethical to kill animals for consumption. Elizabeth Kolbert, a reporter for The New Yorker, ascertains that these animals should not have to die to satisfy an “unnecessary dietary preference.” This claim that meat consumption is unnecessary and simply a dietary preference stems from studies conducted regarding human evolution. The American Diabetic Association discovered some evidence which correlates to human anatomy having evolved to support a primarily vegetarian diet. In addition to the morality of killing animals, vegetarians claim that the processes used to put the beasts to death are examples of cruel treatment. (Kolbert).

However, it is not unethical, nor is it cruel, to kill animals for food- a necessary aspect of life. Eating meat is utterly a natural part of the life cycle, which has been essential to humans for 2.3 million years. (Joyce). Though our bodies have evolved somewhat to accommodate these changes we’ve forced upon them, an omnivorous diet is the pure and unrefined diet of humans. Why, then, would we seek to change or fix what is not broken? Not only is the slaughter of animals historically vital to human life, but it is not cruel. New technologies minimize animal sufferings. In fact, the process is now nearly painless for the animals involved. (Temple). The largest point of discussion with respect to vegetarianism versus meat diets is the contrast in health benefits.

Though there may be many merits to a vegetarian diet, a diet including meat expresses even more rewards. Omitting animal products from food selections may reduce chances of a kidney stone or gall stone occurrence. (Goldfarb). In addition, a vegetarian diet is a more healthful way of obtaining iron, according to a 2010 study conducted by the Office of Dietary Supplements.


There is no denying these facts; however, meat products are favorable in health advantages. Animal meat is the most convenient source of protein available, according to the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association article. In addition, vitamin B12 is only found in animal meat in the quantities needed for humans. (Wolfgang). And although vegetarians have found a more healthful form of iron, the iron found in meat is much more readily available; hence many vegetarians suffer from iron deficiencies. Immune health and nervous health also increase when meat is a consistent part of a diet, as it provides needed saturated fats. (Morell). The combination of all of these health benefits is a great factor in overall well-being. When general condition is increasing, it facilitates maintaining a healthy weight, which everyone wishes was easier.

It would be unwise to disregard the benefits of vegetarianism. However, the flaws in the theories surrounding this lifestyle cannot be refuted. A diet containing meat is the obvious choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced overall health. And, for those concerned about social perspectives, vegetarianism can lead to economic downfall. At the same time, new euthanasia technologies allow nearly painless slaughter techniques to be used. Since these issues are no longer relevant, a more beneficial diet that has sustained our species for all of history finds no basis for change.
Works Cited