The paper, written by Professor Neville Gregory from Massey University's Faculty of Veterinary Science, says the increase in the number of reduced meats eaters over the past two decades can be attributed to changed eating habits, as well as altered views about vegetarianism. During the 1960s 'vegetarianism' had a hippy image based on spiritual devotion and ecology. Over the past decade this image has shifted to encompass a concern for animal welfare, the environment, and a heightened consciousness of ones own body image, health and youthfulness. The popularity of, and medical support for fresh, light meals has heightened the awareness of vegetarian eating, and encouraged, if not absolute vegetarianism, then at least the eating of less meat. The overall decrease in meat eating has occurred without individuals becoming total vegetarians, but by them adopting a number of views held by the vegetarian movement.
Vegetarianism is the strongest in Britain and growing steadily in Germany and Belgium.
The BSE scare has undoubtedly reinforced for vegetarians the view that eating meat is hazardous. Although surveys show animal welfare is the main reason for becoming completely vegetarian, for many people, particularly young women, health concerns also form the basis of switching to semi-vegetarianism. Ardent vegetarians regard meat as a dead food in the process of decaying, while foods such as nuts, grains and pulses are perceived as full of life and vibrant. Professor Gregory says perceptions about farming and slaughter practises are often what leads vegetarians to take the moral stance with the food they choose to eat or not to eat. Some feel it expresses their philosophy of non-violence and respect for living things.