Devon academics want to hear from people planning to take part in Veganuary
Researchers at the University of Exeter want to compare habits and attitudes before and after the meat-free month
Last updated 28th Dec 2024
Academics in Devon are looking at whether those who sign up to Veganuary are more likely to eat healthier six months later.
The University of Exeter is studying the impacts of eating plant-based foods for a month.
Researchers have previously found that Veganuary can help people to reduce their meat intake well beyond the end of January.
However, their research has also identified challenges that can hinder people sticking to the diet for the whole month - such as having to navigate food choices in social settings, and the perceived inconvenience of plant-based cooking.
University of Exeter PhD researcher Sophie Hearn said: "Our previous research shows us that taking part in Veganuary can lead to lasting habits of eating less meat, but we know people do face challenges.
"Our new study aims to help people feel more confident in making plant-based choices. This could further enhance how effective Veganuary and similar initiatives can be in the longer term."
Researchers at the University want to hear from those planning to take part in Veganuary. Hearn adds:
"We need people to sign up to our next research study in December, to help us test strategies to support people overcome the challenges they may face in sticking to a plant-based diet in January."
The study is aiming to recruit 200 people who currently eat meat and are planning to not eat meat during January for Veganuary. The study involves completing a series of short surveys between December and May.
Professor Natalia Lawrence, at the University of Exeter, said: "We know that reducing meat intake can have a number of benefits including on health, the environment, animal welfare, and on finances.
"We want to help people who take part in Veganuary to make these changes in the longer term, too.
"Although many people will be more focussed on their festive feast during December, we need that baseline information now to be able to monitor the differences during and after Veganuary."