How do socio-economic categories and identities, and their intersections, play a role in (not) eating food from animals and the ways in which this form of eating is changing in practice?

Context and Relevance:

Socio-economic categories and identities significantly influence eating practices, including decisions about consuming food from animals. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for identifying how different social groups approach and adapt to changes in food consumption practices. This knowledge can inform policies and interventions aimed at promoting sustainable and equitable food systems by addressing the diverse motivations and barriers experienced by various socio-economic and identity groups.

Potential Research Approach:

Socio-Economic Analysis: Examine how socio-economic factors, such as income, education, and occupation, affect individuals' choices regarding eating food from animals. Investigate how these factors influence access to and perceptions of animal-based and plant-based foods.

Identity and Consumption Patterns: Explore how various social identities (e.g., class, gender, ethnicity, religion) shape attitudes toward food from animals. Analyze how intersections of these identities affect consumption practices and openness to dietary changes.

Behavioral Changes: Investigate how shifts in socio-economic conditions and identities influence changes in eating practices over time. Assess the impact of changing socio-economic contexts on the adoption of plant-based diets and the reduction of animal-based food consumption.

Case Studies: Conduct case studies across different socio-economic and cultural contexts to identify patterns and variations in food consumption practices related to animal products. Evaluate how specific socio-economic groups are responding to and driving changes in food systems.

Policy Implications: Develop recommendations for policies and interventions that address the diverse socio-economic and identity-related factors influencing food consumption. Propose strategies for making sustainable and ethical food options more accessible and appealing to different social groups.

Additional Questions:

1. How do socio-economic categories and identities influence individuals’ decisions to eat or not eat food from animals?

2. What are the intersections between socio-economic factors and social identities in shaping eating practices related to animal products?

3. How have socio-economic changes influenced shifts in eating practices regarding food from animals?

4. What are the barriers and enablers for different socio-economic groups in adopting plant-based or reduced animal-based diets?