The Netherlands has seen a strong increase in the number of flexitarians – people who choose not to eat meat on at least one day a week.

A survey conducted by environmental organisation Natuur & Milieu shows that about 35 percent of the Dutch population have made a conscious decision not to eat meat every day of the week, compared to 22 percent one year ago.

Most flexitarians cite health reasons as their main motivation to cut back on meat. In addition, many want to make a contribution to nature and the environment and to animal welfare. On average, the Dutch now eat meat 5.3 days a week, compared to 5.7 last year.

Of those interviewed, 69 percent said they regarded meat as a luxury food and no longer as a necessity. More than 10 percent of the Dutch still eat meat on a daily basis.

(gsh/imm)

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