Abstract:

Artificial intelligence (AI) introduces new capabilities to animal agriculture that could alter production methods, economic structures, and animal welfare outcomes. Responding strategically requires an understanding of how quickly such changes will unfold, whether they will benefit or harm animal welfare, and what interventions will remain relevant. In this three-part series, we take a close look at how AI will be used over the next five years in aquaculture, which collectively farms hundreds of billions of animals each year for food.

Part 1: Innovation

This report analyzes the current state of AI innovation in aquaculture, including the operational challenges faced by farmers, the functional problems that AI products are being developed to solve, the species currently targeted by new technologies, and the global R&D hubs leading AI innovation in aquaculture. The two reports that follow will address Deployment and Welfare Effects, respectively.

Williamson, S., McAuliffe, W., & McKay, H. (2025, December). How AI is affecting farmed aquatic animals. Part 1: Innovation. Rethink Priorities. https://rethinkpriorities.org/research-area/how-ai-is-affecting-farmed-aquatic-animals-1/

Abstract:

This article evaluates the evidence for sentience – the capacity to have feelings – in cephalopod molluscs: octopus, cuttlefish, squid, and nautilus. Our framework includes eight criteria, covering both whether the animal’s nervous system could support sentience and whether their behaviour indicates sentience. There is strong evidence of sentience in octopuses and cuttlefish, which are assessed with very high or high confidence in meeting six of eight criteria. There is also substantial evidence for squid (very high or high confidence in five of eight criteria). By contrast, whether nautiluses are sentient remains unknown (high confidence in only one of eight criteria), since this group of cephalopods have attracted little research. This reflects a general pattern: cases where a taxon did not satisfy a criterion were invariably due to insufficient evidence, rather than evidence that the criterion was not met. In no cases were we confident that a taxon failed a criterion. We explore the nuances of evidence for sentience, examining both neural and behavioural markers, drawing from and updating our previous review (Birch et al., 2021), and shedding light on the implications for ethical treatment and welfare within this class of animals while also revealing areas where further research is needed.

Schnell, A. K., Browning, H., Crump, A., Burn, C. C., & Birch, J. (2026). Sentience in cephalopod molluscs: An updated assessment. Biological Reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society. https://doi.org/10.1002/brv.70125

Abstract:

For decades, industrial aquaculture has been framed as a win-win: farm fish to spare wild fisheries, reduce environmental harm, and meet global demand with a healthy, efficient protein. This narrative—popularized as the industry’s “Blue Revolution”—has profoundly shaped policy, conservation strategies, and institutional purchasing decisions. 

This report examines what that story leaves out: that, through greenwashing, aquaculture has brought factory farming from land to sea. Across five central claims that anchor “sustainable seafood” messaging, it shows how industrial fish farming has expanded at a scale that inherently drives ecological harm by intensifying pressure on wild fisheries, spreading disease and drug dependence, worsening climate impacts, and leaning on labels and certifications that often substitute for real accountability.

The Myth of “Sustainable” Aquaculture is a report by the Aquaculture Accountability Project in collaboration with Farm Forward.

Aquaculture Accountability Project. (2026). The Myth of “Sustainable” Aquaculture – Aquaculture Accountability Project. https://aquacultureaccountability.org/myth/

Abstract:

Concerns about animal welfare have been around for hundreds of years. In his “Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation,” the philosopher Jeremy Bentham wrote in 1780 that the key question was not whether animals can reason, but whether they can suffer. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was founded in 1824 and continues to raise public awareness and influence laws.

Still, some animals have been routinely overlooked: water breathers. This blind spot has harmed countless species, including fish, sharks, cephalopods, and other aquatic invertebrates. That harm is accelerating with industrial approaches to aquaculture and fishing, and as warming waters result in decreased oxygen in their habitats. Including broader consideration of how water breathers differ from air breathers in policy and practice could improve welfare for these animals, both captive and wild.

Jacquet, J., & Pauly, D. (2026). Water breathing is a blind spot in animal welfare science. Issues (National Council of State Boards of Nursing (U.S.)), 42(2), 21–23. https://doi.org/10.58875/UPRO3754

Abstract:

Meeting the world’s growing population’s protein demand, while minimising the environmental impact of food production, is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Livestock production systems are facing challenges regarding their environmental impact, while cropping systems are seen as more environmentally friendly protein sources. This dichotomy is observed in environmental policies. While the contribution of protein production to climate change must be reduced, the nutritional impact for a growing world population and the economic impact for farmers must be considered in policy developments. Protein security is defined as the number of individuals having their protein requirements met daily. This paper evaluates the net contribution, i.e., considering human edible inputs and outputs involved in the production process, of animal- and plant-based products, to protein output and security for the Republic of Ireland. The effects of environmental policies on this contribution are also analysed. Milk and arable production contribute more to net protein security than beef or sheep meat production. Overall, the Irish protein sector can meet the protein requirements of ca. 20 million people annually, 35 million people if digestibility is considered. While both Scenarios investigated would lead to a reduction in GHG emissions, a Business-as-Usual Scenario would lead to a decrease in gross margin but to an increase in protein output and security. A Climate Policy Scenario would lead to an increase in net protein output, but net digestible protein output would decrease due to beef protein being substituted for plant-based protein sources with a lower digestibility.

Merlo, M., Buckley, C., Hennessy, T., & O’Mahony, J. A. (2026). Associating climate change mitigation with protein security: The case of Ireland. Environmental Science & Policy, 176, 104311. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2026.104311

Abstract:

Food consumption generates substantial environmental externalities that remain insufficiently addressed by public policies. Here we explore the global environmental footprints induced by food consumption in the European Union (EU27) based on a multi-regional input–output model, and assess the potential of tax policies for mitigation. Using household expenditure data, we estimate country-specific demand systems for food products and link these to the footprints for the policy analysis. We find that removing current VAT reductions on meat products has the potential to decrease food consumption-related greenhouse-gas emissions, water consumption, land use, biodiversity loss, and the nitrogen and phosphorus footprints of EU27 household food consumption by 3.5%–5.7%. A greenhouse-gas emission price of ~€52 per tCO2e on all food products leads to equivalent emission reductions with higher associated environmental co-benefits. The mean net welfare costs of the two policies amount to €12–26 per year per household.

Plinke, C., Sureth, M., & Kalkuhl, M. (2026). Environmental impacts from European food consumption can be reduced with carbon pricing or a value-added tax reform. Nature Food, 7(1), 74–87. https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-025-01284-y

Abstract:

Burgers made with meat analogues are increasingly promoted for their lower environmental footprint, yet their impacts on terrestrial biodiversity, particularly due to ingredient sourcing, remain poorly understood. This study compares conventional beef patties with four alternatives — pea, soy, insect, and mycoprotein across the ten populous European Union countries, using 2015–2018 averages. By integrating an Environmentally Extended Multi-Regional Input–Output model with Life Cycle Impact Assessment, we evaluated terrestrial biodiversity impacts driven by land use (occupation) and climate change. Results of all patties show that land use dominates, accounting for over 96% of the total terrestrial biodiversity impacts. The biodiversity characteristics of sourcing regions strongly shape overall impacts, and the land use footprint cannot fully capture the spatial biodiversity patterns. Among the novel burger patties, soy patties generally perform the best. Replacing beef with the soy patties in food service could reduce biodiversity impacts by 71–97% per patty and correspond to a 3.6–4.9% reduction in national biodiversity loss associated with beef. Pea and mycoprotein patties exhibit the highest impacts, primarily due to the inclusion of coconut oil sourced from biodiversity-sensitive regions, notably the Philippines and Indonesia. In Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Poland, pea patties’ biodiversity impacts even exceed beef patties due to the structure of the current food system. These findings challenge the assumption that plant-based patties are always environmentally superior compared to beef and emphasize the need for shifting ingredient sourcing from biodiversity-sensitive regions toward lower-impact regions to reduce biodiversity impact.

Zhang, Y., Rasul, K., Dorber, M., Stadler, K., Hertwich, E. G., & Verones, F. (2026). Terrestrial biodiversity impacts of replacing beef with novel burger patties across ten European Union countries. Research Square. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8056294/v1

Abstract:

Population diets need to become healthier and more sustainable to limit their negative effects on health and environment. This study assessed the effect of a positioning intervention, in isolation and in combination with a labelling intervention, on the a) healthiness and b) environmental sustainability of food choices in an experimental online supermarket. Participants (n = 2220) were randomly assigned to one of five trials groups (control; healthier items shown earlier (“health position”); health position & nutri-score labels; environmentally sustainable products shown earlier (“eco position”); eco position & ecolabels) and completed a shopping task in an experimental online supermarket. Linear regressions showed that compared to control, mean scaled nutri-scores of shopping baskets were significantly lower (healthier) for health position (−2.30; 95 %CI: −3.07, −1.52) and health position & labels (−2.50; 95 %CI: −3.28, −1.72), with no significant difference between health position and health position & labels (−0.20; 95 %CI: −0.66, 0.25). The mean eco scores of shopping baskets were significantly reduced (more sustainable) for eco position (−24 %; 95 %CIs: −15 %, −31 %) and eco position & labels (−30 %; 95 % CIs: −22 %, 37 %) compared to control. The eco position & labels group had significantly lower mean eco scores (−8 %; 95 % CIs: −2 %, −14 %) compared to eco position. The positioning intervention improved health and environmental sustainability of food selections in an experimental online supermarket, with less robust evidence for a small additional effect of adding labels. There was no suggestion that adding labels that potentially make the positioning intervention more salient had any backfire effects.

Jostock, C., O’Hagan, A., & Pechey, R. (2026). Combining positioning and labelling interventions for healthier and more environmentally sustainable products: A randomised controlled trial in an online experimental supermarket. Appetite, 218, 108378. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2025.108378

Abstract

There is an increasing focus on the importance of reducing red meat consumption for environmental as well as health reasons. In this study, we have assessed how consumers’ choice of protein source in a meal could be affected by two nudging tools. The first nudge consisted of serving a plant-based steak as the default option instead of beef, alongside placing the plant-based steak at the top of the list of possible protein sources. The second nudge was to provide information about the food’s carbon footprint. Based on a representative survey among 2000 Danish respondents, we found a significant effect of both nudges, with substantially fewer respondents choosing ground beef for their meal. An interesting twist in the substitution pattern was found when beef was the default option, as carbon information made respondents shift from beef to chicken, pork, or fish, whereas when a plant-based steak was served as default, carbon information resulted in more diverse consumption – including also substitution to the plant-based option. We also found that respondents with a personal norm of feeling a moral obligation to reduce their contribution to climate change, who were sensitive to other’s opinions, stated a high awareness of challenges related to climate change, or bought a lot of organic food were more likely to avoid beef and/or be affected by the carbon footprint information. Finally, one third of the sampled consumers were not willing to forgo beef.

Denver, S., Nordström, J., & Christensen, T. (2026). Double nudges can accelerate the transition towards more climate-friendly diets – experiment involving default meals and carbon footprint information. Journal of Cleaner Production, 543, 147617. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2026.147617

Abstract

Background

Implementing optimal defaults by pre-filling online grocery shopping carts with healthy ingredients has increased nutritional quality of grocery purchases among adults. The objective of this pilot trial was to test effects of an optimal defaults online grocery shopping intervention on grocery purchases among families with 2-to-5-year-old children at risk for obesity.

Methods

Parents/guardians of 2-to-5-year-olds who online grocery shopped from one of three study stores were recruited for a 4-week, 2-group randomized trial and randomized to a defaults intervention or control group (n = 69). Healthy recipes were provided to all families during a 2-week intervention. The defaults group also had their online grocery carts pre-filled with recipe ingredients. Participants could modify these carts as desired. Families grocery shopped as usual during 2 baseline weeks, providing grocery purchase data via receipts; purchases were also measured during the 2 intervention weeks that followed, with nutritional quality coded using the Healthy Eating Index. Effects on nutritional quality, energy content, and cost of grocery purchases were tested across all household grocery purchases and purchases from study stores.

Results

Nutritional quality of the defaults group’s household grocery purchases improved significantly from baseline to intervention relative to controls (p < 0.01; 5.4 % increase vs. 8.3 % decrease). Results for study store purchases were similar but not statistically significant. Energy content of and dollars spent on groceries decreased from baseline to intervention in both groups.

Conclusions

Results extend evidence supporting optimal defaults grocery interventions to families with a young child at risk for obesity, with implications for diet-related disease prevention.

Trial registration

Study procedures were registered at clinicaltrials.gov prior to participant enrollment (NCT05899634).

Anzman-Frasca, S., Goldsmith, J., Calabro, A., Gambino, K., Epstein, L. H., Leone, L. A., Wallenhorst, B., Wilding, G. E., & Ferrante, M. J. (2026). Effects of an optimal defaults grocery shopping intervention on household grocery purchases of families with young children. Appetite, 218, 108397. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2025.108397

Abstract

Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are increasing the availability of plant-based options. However, there is a gap between the availability of these items and consumer demand. One strategy to promote plant-based food consumption is social norm messages which provide information about others’ behaviour. This remains to be fully examined in a QSR setting, hence, across two experimental studies, we examined the effectiveness of social norm messages on increasing plant-based food choices. The effectiveness of social norm messages may vary by individual characteristics; thus, collectivism was examined as a potential moderator. Study 1 comprised an online experimental study with participants from eight countries (N = 892). Participants were asked to select a plant- or meat-based meal following exposure to either a descriptive, dynamic, or injunctive social norm message, or a no-norm control message. Questionnaire data was used to examine collectivism as a moderator. The dynamic and injunctive norm messages, but not the descriptive norm message, increased plant-based food choices in Study 1. Collectivism did not significantly moderate the relationship between plant-based food choices and social norm messages. A field study (Study 2) was also conducted. Participants were exposed to a social norm message (descriptive or dynamic) or standard-control message at order terminals in real-world QSRs. Only dynamic norms were found to increase plant-based food choices. Overall, these findings suggest that implementing dynamic social norms into real-world QSRs could be an effective strategy for increasing plant-based food consumption to improve human and planetary health. Further research examining the long-term effects on food choice is needed.

Edwards, K. L., Laqué, P., Thurman, R. M., & Higgs, S. (2026). Exposure to dynamic social norm messages increases plant-based food choice: An online and field-based experiment. Food Quality and Preference, 139, 105856. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodqual.2026.105856

Abstract

Calls for climate action often emphasize the need to reduce harm, such as by eating less meat, driving less, and shopping less. A more productive approach, however, may be to encourage people to do more good. To compare the two approaches, we conducted two pre-registered online experiments in which participants were randomly assigned to either a do-more-good condition or a do-less-bad condition. The do-more-good condition presented 15 actions framed so that doing more of each action would benefit the environment (e.g., reuse, repair, recycle, or repurpose all of your items). In the do-less-bad condition, the 15 actions were framed so that doing less of each action would benefit the environment (e.g., do not throw away any of your items). In Experiment 1 (N = 779), participants were more likely to take climate action and felt happier about doing so in the do-more-good condition than in the do-less-bad condition. Experiment 2 (N = 770) replicated these results. Exploratory analyses revealed the effects of do-more-good frames differed depending on the action. These findings provide implications for climate communication, suggesting that calls for certain climate actions may benefit from encouraging desired behaviors rather than discouraging undesired behaviors.

Radke, J., Guan, S., Dunn, E., & Zhao, J. (2026). How do-more-good frames influence climate action likelihood and anticipated happiness. Frontiers in Communication, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcomm.2026.1693311

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to investigate the enablers and barriers influencing the adoption of plant-based diets among Filipino adult consumers in Metro Manila.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among Filipino adults responsible for household food decisions, particularly those with the capacity to purchase food or plan meals within their household, residing in Metro Manila. The questionnaire, adapted from validated instruments and guided by the COM-B behavioral model, assessed demographic characteristics, food consumption patterns, attitudes, and intentions toward plant-based diets. Data were collected via an online platform and analyzed using cluster segmentation, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to identify key determinants of dietary intentions and behaviors.

Results: Respondents were categorized into four food consumption clusters ranging from high meat-high plant, high meat-low plant, low meat-low plant, and low meat-high plant intake based on the food frequency consumption by applying the k-means clustering method. Monthly household income was significantly associated with food consumption patterns. Overall, 39.34% of participants intended to reduce meat consumption, while 54.10% aimed to increase plant-based food intake. Behavioral analysis revealed that psychological capability (knowledge of plant-based cooking) and reflective motivation (enjoyment of vegetarian dishes) significantly increased intentions to shift diets. Conversely, barriers included perceptions that plant-based meal preparation is time-consuming and satisfaction with reducing but not eliminating meat intake. Social opportunity factors showed mixed effects, with autonomy supporting dietary shifts, but social normalization of meat reduction potentially reducing individual motivation.

Conclusions: There is a growing intention among Filipino consumers to adopt plant-based diets, yet practical and perceptual barriers remain. Addressing these challenges through education, improving accessibility, and leveraging social influences is essential to facilitate dietary shifts. Economic factors, particularly income disparities, also influence food choices, highlighting the need for equitable policies. Supporting plant-based diets can advance public health, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience in the Philippine context.

Bernardino, M., Caisip, A., & Napata, S. M. (2026). Navigating the adoption of plant-based diet in the Philippines: insights into consumer enablers and barriers. Exploration of Foods and Foodomics, 4. https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2026.1010110

Abstract

In the face of escalating environmental crises, sustainable development is becoming one of the key global challenges. A growing body of research indicates that transitioning to plant-based diets, including a vegan diet, can significantly improve environmental sustainability. Young people from Generation Z play a crucial role in shaping future consumption patterns, and their beliefs and attitudes toward sustainable food may serve as an important indicator of social changes in the area of nutrition and the potential for implementing pro-ecological practices. The aim of the study is to assess students’ perceptual attitudes toward plant-based products, which constitute an integral part of vegan diets, addressing a significant gap in the literature on sustainable consumption among Generation Z in emerging economies. The study allows for the identification of the main sources of information, psychosocial barriers, and motivational factors underlying the adoption of a vegan diet, situating them within sustainable development paradigms. The research group consisted of 263 university students in Warsaw (Poland). A CAWI survey method was used, with a proprietary questionnaire. The study shows that more than 60% of respondents were not interested in this dietary option, and a similar proportion did not expect to adopt veganism in the future. Students’ attitudes toward the vegan diet are shaped primarily by their self-assessment of nutritional knowledge, previous experiences with plant-based diets, and socio-cultural factors. Although many respondents recognize the health and environmental benefits of a plant-based diet, the lack of reliable knowledge, concerns about deficiencies, higher product costs, and social pressure remain key barriers limiting their willingness to change eating habits. From a practical perspective, the findings highlight the need to develop nutrition education focused on the competencies required to properly balance plant-based diets, to increase the economic and sensory accessibility of vegan food, and to counteract persistent stereotypes and misconceptions about veganism, especially on social media, which is the main source of information for this age group.

Tarnowska, K., Przetacka, P., Gruczyńska-Sękowska, E., & Winkler, R. (2026). Sustainable foods: Opinions, knowledge and attitudes of Generation Z consumers toward plant-based foods: A case study of Polish students. Sustainability, 18. https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/18/2/1132#libraryItemId=18656975

Abstract

This deep dive explores the research on humane education — programs that teach the consequences of animal agriculture and/or respect for animals — examining how these initiatives influence dietary choices, shape attitudes toward animals, and inspire lasting compassionate action.

Polanco, A., & Faunalytics. (2026). Tactics in practice: The data behind humane education. Faunalytics. https://faunalytics.org/tactics-in-practice-the-data-behind-humane-education/#libraryItemId=18610080

Abstract

To mitigate the potential harm caused by (over)consumption of animal-based foods, it is advisable to adopt a diet that emphasizes plant-based foods. However, it can be quite challenging for consumers to make such a change. The current research aims to investigate the opportunities for this transition in food consumption by examining the influence of consumption context (e.g., meal occasion, physical setting, and social environment), food category, and its interaction with dietary lifestyle (e.g., omnivore, flexitarian, and vegetarian) on the willingness to choose plant-based analogs instead of animal-based foods. To address this, a self-reported 24 h online food consumption recall survey was conducted in Flanders, Belgium. Participants (N = 2052) were asked to indicate which foods and beverages they had consumed in the previous 24 h from a predefined list of possible food categories. For each product reported, participants had to describe the context of consumption (location, social environment, time of day). For each animal-based food (e.g., meat, fish, dairy, and eggs) listed, participants had to answer to what extent they would be willing to substitute the listed product for a plant-based analog consumed in the described consumption context. The current research suggests differences in the willingness to replace animal-based food products with plant-based analogs based on food category, dietary lifestyle, their interaction, meal occasion and physical setting. These findings may be of interest to retailers, marketers, and policymakers who could use the knowledge gained to inform their communications and develop more effective behavioral interventions.

Coucke, N., Slabbinck, H., & Vermeir, I. (2025). The influence of food category, dietary lifestyle, and consumption context on willingness to substitute animal-based food products with plant-based analogs. Appetite, 108396. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2025.108396

Abstract

Psychological research on human-animal intergroup relations is increasingly concerned with how people change their dietary behavior and attitudes towards animals, for example to reduce animal product consumption, encourage shifts towards veganism, and promote attitudinal changes regarding animals. Although researchers have begun to use designs that try to detect these changes, either naturalistically or via interventions, longitudinal studies remain scarce (Green et al., 2025). Practical, conceptual, and empirical issues make longitudinal research challenging. In this commentary, we outline key considerations in this area, and discuss methods for addressing them.

de Lint, L., Schiller, J., Gagliardi, L., & Sayat, R. A. (2026). Time matters: Temporal dimensions of change in animal-product consumption and animal attitudes. Psychology of Human-Animal Intergroup Relations. https://phair.psychopen.eu/index.php/phair/article/view/19183/19183.html#libraryItemId=18657023

Abstract

Current consumption of animal-based protein sources is environmentally unsustainable and poses risks to human health, animal welfare, and food security. Policymakers in many countries seek to reduce the consumption of animal-based protein sources. However, this transition is affected by many factors, and it remains unclear how they interact and what their potential is for stimulating systemic change. This study synthesized stakeholders’ perspectives on factors driving the consumption of animal- and plant-based protein sources into a Causal Loop Diagram (CLD), visualizing factors and their cause-and-effect relationships. Three Group Model Building sessions with 28 stakeholders (consumers, researchers, industry representatives, policymakers, interest group members) from the Netherlands informed the CLD. The Action Scales Model was used to categorize factors into system levels (events, structures, goals, and beliefs), providing insights into their potential for systemic change. The resulting CLD reveals the complexity of protein consumption across five interconnected subsystems: 1) Individual Aspects, 2) Social Interactions & Culture, 3) Physical Food Environment, 4) Food Industry & Natural Food Environment, and 5) Politics & Regulation. The high interconnectivity indicates isolated interventions are unlikely to be sufficient for systemic change, as feedback mechanisms may counteract or neutralize their effects. Addressing multiple elements across the system is thus essential to accelerate the protein transition. This study provides a foundation for understanding the system dynamics shaping consumption of animal- and plant-based protein sources. However, further research is needed to incorporate quantitative weighting, determine the relative importance of mechanisms and identify leverage points for systemic change to guide policy development.

Tholen, L., Blokhuis, C., Lambooij, M. S., Fraser, G. R. L., Lipman, S. A., van Exel, J., & Ocké, M. C. (2026). Understanding consumption of animal- and plant-based protein sources in the Netherlands: a stakeholder-driven causal loop diagram. Appetite, 108486. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2026.108486

Abstract

Background: Dietary habits established during young adulthood have long-term implications for health, and food choices among university students are strongly shaped by contextual factors. Institutional eating environments represent a relevant setting for promoting healthier dietary behaviors, yet limited evidence integrates students’ engagement with these settings, their food consumption patterns across contexts, and the individual decision-making processes underlying food choice. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed survey data from 1519 students enrolled at a large Italian university. Measures included sociodemographic characteristics, self-identified dietary style, engagement with the university canteen, consumption frequency of selected food categories across institutional and non-institutional contexts, and category-specific food-choice motivations. Data were analyzed using descriptive analyses, Borda count rankings, paired comparisons, and multiple linear regression models. Results: Clear contextual differences in food consumption emerged across all food categories, with consistently lower consumption frequencies within the university canteen compared to outside settings (all p < 0.001). The largest contextual gap was observed for fruit consumption (d = 0.94), with similarly pronounced differences for plant-based foods. Taste was the most salient decision-making factor across food categories (overall M ≈ 4.4), while health-related motives were more prominent for healthier foods and gratification for desserts. Across contexts, self-identified dietary style was the most consistent predictor of food consumption, explaining substantial variance for animal-based protein consumption (R2 = 0.293 in the canteen; R2 = 0.353 outside), whereas age and gender showed smaller, food-specific associations. Conclusions: The findings highlight institutional eating settings as distinct food environments in which individual dietary preferences are only partially expressed. Effective strategies to promote healthier eating among university students should move beyond generic approaches and integrate interventions targeting service-related engagement, category-specific choice architecture, and students’ dietary identities.

Aboueldahab, A., Vanutelli, M. E., D’Addario, M., & Steca, P. (2026). Understanding food choices among university students: Dietary identity, decision-making motives, and contextual influences. Nutrients, 18(2). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020228

Abstract

Eating meat is central to most cultures but produces substantial personal carbon emissions, contributing to the climate crisis. We compare the effectiveness of vegan versus meat-eating messengers on support for adopting an environmentally-friendly vegan diet in two ‘meat-positive’ cultures, Ukraine (n = 383) and Romania (n = 346), and a more vegan-friendly dietary culture (Germany/Austria; n = 426). In our pre-registered cross-cultural experiment, participants from the three countries read articles either inducing a pro-meat or a vegan norm, e.g. that either meat-eating or meat-free diets are normal (factor “norm”) and were then confronted with critical calls for a meat-free diet, either from a meat-eating or vegan messenger. We then assessed reaction to the calls as well as hypothetical meal choice as dependent/outcome variable. As predicted, calls voiced by a vegan messenger were consistently rated to be more threatening than the same criticism voiced by meat-eaters. Vegans’ messages were also perceived as less helpful for the environment and vegan messengers were perceived less positively. However, these effects differed between countries. No direct effects of the messenger on meal choice were observed. Reminding people of a pro-vegan or a pro-meat norm had no observable effects. To promote more sustainable diets, campaigns should use meat-eating messengers and take culture into account.

Thürmer, J. L., Bamberg, C., Kurapov, A., Blechert, J., Taut, D., Gotea, M., McCrea, S., Eichin, K., & Sproesser, G. (2026). Why meat-eaters reject calls for a meat-free diet: Social norm and messenger effects in two meat-eating cultures. Environmental Research Communications. https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/2515-7620/ae3ff1/meta#libraryItemId=18655462

Abstract

Description

This intervention aims to improve climate change and animal welfare outcomes by encouraging supermarkets in high-income countries to commit to selling a higher percentage of total protein sales from plant-based sources. Increasing plant-based protein sales while keeping protein volume sold constant would simultaneously reduce emissions and reduce the number of animals farmed to meet consumer demand for protein. The proposed charity would advocate for protein sales ratio commitments (i.e., ensuring that a certain percentage of protein sales are from plants) by a target year by conducting corporate campaigns and providing technical assistance to supermarkets to encourage consumer purchasing of plant-based protein.

Hegwood, M., & Cox, V. (2025). Advocating for 60:40 Plant:Animal Protein Sales Ratios by 2040 | Animal Welfare Reports. Charity Entrepreneurship. https://www.charityentrepreneurship.com/animal-welfare-reports

Abstract

Coalition work requires patience, critical reflection, and a systems-based approach. In this blog, Catalina López shows us how the Aquatic Animal Alliance has mobilized many groups to make change for fishes and other sea life.

Faunalytics, & López, C. (2026). Coalitions as engines of change: A case study with Aquatic Animal Alliance. Faunalytics. https://faunalytics.org/coalitions-as-engines-of-change-a-case-study-with-aquatic-animal-alliance/

Abstract

This month’s Faunalytics Index provides facts and stats about the gender gap in meat consumption across cultures, veterinary care deserts, the economics behind the fur farming industry, and more.

Faunalytics, & Cant, M. (2026). Faunalytics Index – January 2026. Faunalytics. https://faunalytics.org/faunalytics-index-january-2026/

Abstract

A growing body of research has examined the rise of civil society efforts to green China’s food system, and this article contributes to such discussions by examining the case of plant-based food and lifestyle advocacy. Amid emerging paradoxes in China’s food production and consumption trends, examining individuals and groups who promote distinct diets such as veganism offers new insights into civil society’s engagement with sustainability transitions. Drawing on an ethnographic approach that combines digital food studies with onsite fieldwork, this study highlights China’s contemporary dietary publics and their overlapping discursive and mobilisation dynamics through four dimensions of advocacy pertaining to education, culture, exploration, and innovation. It finds that a diverse range of actors are effectively coming together under the umbrella of a Plant-Forward Movement, which while predominantly vegan, also encompasses vegetarian and flexitarian practices. Operating in a socio-cultural context in which reducing meat consumption is challenging, these actors occupy a distinct niche within China’s Green Public Sphere. This underscores their potential to drive social transitions towards greener diets and lifestyles.

Song Lopez, G. (2026). Going plant-forward? Dietary publics and plant-based lifestyle advocacy in contemporary China. Asian Studies Review, 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1080/10357823.2025.2597990

Abstract

We review a charity idea to lobby governments to introduce financial tools (like loan guarantees) to help alternative protein companies scale production. High capital costs block the expansion of alternative proteins, despite the strong potential for climate and animal welfare impact. Drawing lessons from industries like clean energy, the charity would push for policies that reduce investment risk and unlock private capital.

Craig, S., & Cox, V. (2025). Securing Scale-up Funding for Alternative Proteins. Charity Entrepreneurship. https://www.charityentrepreneurship.com/animal-welfare-reports 

Abstract

A factsheet that highlights the results of a new poll by Savanta, exploring the opinions of European citizens on live animal transport. With results gathered from the public across nine EU countries, this research shows Europeans do care about the wellbeing of the animals in this sector.

Eurogroup for Animals. (2026). European citizens care about the welfare of animals during transport. (2026).  https://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/library/european-citizens-care-about-welfare-animals-during-transport

Abstract

A deep look at how long-term, structural change for animals depends on binding legal reforms and political strategy, not just public sympathy.

Faunalytics, Nalon, E., & Hameleers, R. (2026). Investing in power: Animal protection should prioritize political advocacy. https://faunalytics.org/investing-in-power-animal-protection-should-prioritize-political-advocacy/

Abstract

Animal Welfare Indicators (AWIs) are scientific tools that translate evidence on animal wellbeing into measurable outcomes for policy, enforcement, and improvement. Within the framework of the aWISH project (Animal Welfare Indicators in the Slaughterhouse), AWIs are being validated for use at slaughterhouses across the EU, providing a foundation for harmonised welfare assessment.

This report outlines practical pathways for integrating AWIs into EU frameworks. It highlights how indicators can be embedded through existing mechanisms such as species-specific legislation, the Official Controls Regulation, the Common Agricultural Policy, welfare labelling, and trade standards. It also underscores the growing importance of digitalisation, demonstrating how the aWISH project’s technological innovations can support large-scale, consistent welfare monitoring.

Eurogroup for Animals. (2026). From indicators to implementation: pathways for EU welfare reform. https://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/library/indicators-implementation-pathways-eu-welfare-reform

Abstract

As Cyprus prepares to take on the EU Council Presidency, animal welfare stands at a decisive crossroads. This memorandum sets out clear priorities and concrete actions to deliver long-overdue progress for animals across Europe, from modernising farm animal welfare legislation and ending cages, to tackling live transport, illegal pet trade, fur farming and animal testing. Backed by science, public demand and political momentum, it calls on the Cypriot Presidency to lead with ambition and ensure animal welfare remains a core pillar of EU policy in 2026.

Eurogroup for Animals. (2026). Memorandum for animal welfare to the Cypriot presidency. https://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/library/memorandum-animal-welfare-cypriot-presidency-2026

Abstract

Across the world, many democracies have recently witnessed a shift towards the political right. This trend presents a challenge for the animal advocacy movement, as animal welfare concerns tend to be stronger among individuals holding left, rather than right political ideologies. Right-leaning individuals are more likely to endorse traditions, resist societal change, and are more supportive of human dominance over animals—factors predicting lower openness to animal welfare measures (e.g., Dhont & Hodson, 2014; Dhont et al., 2016; Hoffarth et al., 2019). Nonetheless, given the growing influence of the right, some animal advocates have begun to question whether the movement’s close association with the political left should be reconsidered (Arévalo & Ólafsson, 2024; Anthis, 2020; Dhont & Ioannidou, 2025).

Jenni, S., de Gourville, D., & Rice, S. (2026). Reaching the Right: Engaging conservatives in animal welfare. Psychology of Human-Animal Intergroup Relations. https://phair.psychopen.eu/index.php/phair/article/view/19613/19613.html#libraryItemId=18657021

Abstract

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The European Institute for Animal Law and Policy. (2026). Recent Developments in EU Animal Law. https://animallaweurope.org/wp-content/uploads/Recent-Developments-in-EU-Animal-Law-2025.pdf

Abstract

The road transport of live animals in the European Union presents significant challenges at the intersection of worker safety and animal welfare. This study examines these issues, highlighting the critical role of animal transport in the livestock production supply chain while addressing its associated risks. Between 2017 and 2021, over 1.5 billion live animal transports were recorded within the EU, as monitored by the Comext and TRACES systems. Despite its economic importance, this process exposes animals to stressors such as improper handling, noise, vibrations, and adverse microclimatic conditions, leading to potential injuries. Workers also face occupational hazards, including injuries caused by animal panic, aggression, and difficulties during loading and unloading due to poor vehicle design and driving practices. To mitigate these risks, Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 establishes legal protections for animal welfare during transport, yet challenges persist. In alignment with the EU’s Green Deal, the industry is undergoing a transformative shift toward more sustainable practices, including a reduction in live animal transport in favor of meat transport, which is less environmentally taxing. This paper analyzes these dynamics and emphasizes the need to adapt transport practices to ensure regulatory compliance, enhance worker safety, and protect animal welfare in the context of evolving regulations and environmental challenges.

Pilarczyk, M., & Ulewicz, R. (2026). Road transport of live animals in the EU: challenges in worker safety and animal welfare. Transportation Research Procedia, 93, 31–36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trpro.2025.11.006

Abstract

In 2019, the EU and Mercosur countries reached ‘an agreement in principle’ for a free trade agreement (FTA), that would significantly liberalise trade in almost all agri-food products. The only animal-welfare-related condition applied to shelled eggs, which must comply with the EU Laying Hens Directive to benefit from tariff reductions. Crucially, no comparable requirements were included for high-volume imports such as beef and chicken meat, where animal welfare impacts from the deal are greatest.

Eurogroup for Animals. (2026). The hidden cost of the EU-Mercosur agreement. https://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/library/hidden-cost-eu-mercosur-agreement

Abstract

As in the political dynamics around other sustainability transitions, the transition away from meat and dairy seems to be emerging as a new frontier in political polarisation. Drawing on a representative sample of the Dutch population this paper investigates the political ideological dimensions of meat consumption and connects them to party support. Analysis of the ideological dimensions underlying meat consumption reveal that different ideological dimensions associated with the political right, such as cultural conservatism, traditionalism and nativism predict a higher commitment to meat consumption, while climate concerns and animal welfare are negative predictors. The paper suggests that meat reduction policies have the potential to become integrated in wider political polarisation (‘culture wars’) of sustainability, especially when climate issues are made salient. A focus on animal welfare might, however, be a pathway for less political polarisation of the protein transition.

Boterman, W. R. (2026). The political ideological dimensions of meat consumption. Political Science, 1–27. https://doi.org/10.1080/00323187.2025.2602446

Abstract

This paper critically examines the marginalisation of veganism within leftist or progressive political discourse, particularly through the lens of Marxist theory, in the context of the Anthropocene. While Marxism has provided incisive critiques of capitalism’s exploitation of labour and nature, it has largely overlooked the ecological and ethical implications of animal agriculture, which is a glaring omission given its central role in driving environmental degradation and climate change. Drawing on Marx’s concepts of metabolic rift, alienation and value, the paper argues veganism is essential to any comprehensive critique of capitalism’s destructive relationship with both human and non-human life. It explores the parallels between the exploitation of humans and animals under capitalist systems and critiques the left’s inconsistent treatment of animal liberation as a peripheral concern, despite its deep entanglement with environmental justice, labour struggles, and anti-capitalist movements. By integrating veganism into Marxist ecological thought, the paper calls for a reimagining of leftist or progressive political frameworks to address the interconnected crises of food production, animal exploitation, and climate catastrophe. The Anthropocene demands an expanded vision of solidarity that transcends species boundaries, recognising veganism as a vital building block in the struggle for a more just, sustainable, and equitable world. A version of this paper was first presented at the Marx in the Anthropocene conference at Università Iuav di Venezia (Iuav University of Venice), Italy, in March 2025.

Leese, E. A. (2026). The political left and the overlooked power of veganism: Toward a marxist-animal liberationist framework for ecological revolution. Animal Studies Journal, 14(2). https://doi.org/10.14453/asj.1641 

Evidence from cross-sectional studies suggests that people who eat more meat tend to report somewhat lower depression—a link that, if causal, could have important implications for mental health. However, little is known about why meat consumption is associated with depression. We examined the nature and magnitude of this association in three large, representative, longitudinal samples in the Netherlands, Germany, and Australia (Total N = 77,678). Adjusting for income, age, education, and gender, we observed a weak association of β⁠ = -.05 between meat consumption and depression that was not moderated by living context. Moreover, the longitudinal within-person association was very small (β⁠ = -.01) and lagged within-person effects were not significant, casting doubt on a direct causal association. Overall, results do not support low meat consumption as an important risk factor for depression.

Tan, N. P.-J., Krämer, M. D., Haehner, P., Bleidorn, W., & Hopwood, C. (2025). Associations between meat consumption and depression are small and unlikely to be causal. OSF Preprints. https://osf.io/preprints/psyarxiv/gxabe_v1

Abstract

Purpose and scope 

This report maps the current global landscape of veganism and associated factors to inform individuals, advocates, policy-makers and industry professionals about the growth of veganism and areas of opportunity for progressing vegan solutions. Information was collected through the following methods.

(i) Analysis of existing international data, including per capita animal product consumption, number of animal product alternative companies and number of vegan restaurants.(ii) An original online survey conducted in 10 countries, involving approximately 2000 participants (around 200 per country), to gather novel insights into the prevalence and perception of veganism.(iii) The development of detailed, expert-reviewed profiles for 21 countries, examining factors that contribute to the growth of veganism in key regions.

This report is largely comparative and descriptive; we do not aim to provide concrete explanations for particular findings. However, whenever possible, we do present context and potential explanations for our findings. The objective of this report is to provide a rounder and richer understanding of the growth of veganism globally, with fresh insights into where there are opportunities for further growth. Individuals might use this report to understand which countries might be the most ‘vegan-friendly’ travel destinations, businesses might use it to inform future product marketing, whereas advocacy organisations might use it to decide on new territories in which to expand campaigns.

Hankins, E., & Bryan, C. (2026). Veganism around the world: New report maps global attitudes, diets, and market realities. https://www.vegansociety.com/sites/default/files/uploads/downloads/Veganism_Around_the_World_2025_%20The_Vegan_Society.pdf

Abstract

Background/objectives: Despite increasing global interest in veganism, integrative models that incorporate ethical, environmental, and psychosocial determinants within the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) remain limited in Türkiye. This study aimed to extend the TPB by including ethical, environmental, and health-related motivations to better explain individuals’ intentions and behaviors related to adopting and maintaining a vegan diet.Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among adults in Türkiye who identified with or engaged in veganism. Twelve latent variables were assessed using validated scales, and the extended model was tested through structural equation modeling with additional robustness procedures, including spline adjustments, PCA, Elastic Net regularization, and instrumental variable analyses.Results: Subjective norms and perceived behavioral control significantly predicted vegan intention, with subjective norms emerging as the strongest determinant. Ethical motivation strongly predicted intention but did not directly predict actual adherence. Unexpectedly, environmental and health motivations were negatively associated with adherence. Women reported stronger intentions despite perceiving lower social support.Conclusion: This study broadens the TPB by integrating ethical, normative, and psychosocial dimensions that explain vegan intentions beyond traditional predictors. Findings underscore the importance of moral identity, perceived social expectations, and contextual factors in shaping sustainable dietary behaviors.

Öneş, E., Gençalp, C., Avcı, G., Sipahi, S., Kahrıman, M., Yılmaz, S., & Baş, M. (2026). Veganism: an extended theory of planned behavior framework incorporating ethical, environmental, and sociodemographic determinants. Frontiers in Nutrition, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2026.1761348