Why Do We Fear Meat? The Shocking Origins of a Misguided Narrative

Ever wondered why meat is often blamed for our health problems?

It turns out the answer isn’t as simple—or scientific—as you might think. In Episode 1 of ReThink Meat, we dive into the surprising origins of the anti-meat movement, revealing a tangled web of religion, entrepreneurship, biased science, and industry-driven agendas.

Discover how figures like Ellen G. White, Ancel Keys and the rise of Crisco shaped public opinion, why seed oils became dietary staples, and how conflicts of interest skewed scientific conclusions about meat and disease. By the end of this 18-minute deep dive, you’ll walk away with a whole new perspective on meat and the real culprits behind the chronic diseases plaguing modern society.

👀 What you’ll learn: The religious roots of the anti-meat movement. How an entrepreneurial genius turned seed oils into “health food.” The science that demonized meat—and why it doesn’t hold up. Who really benefits when we fear animal products. If you’ve ever questioned whether meat deserves its bad reputation, this episode will fascinate you and help you make your own informed decision.

☑️ Study links: docs.google.com/document/d/1kvRF5ymuxCf73ivSMdz_1GXC4049hVcH/edit#heading=h.jl77ljlx896z

ReThink Meat: And Why We Fear It | episode one

The video explores the origins of the belief that meat is harmful to health. It argues that historical narratives driven by religious beliefs, marketing efforts, and flawed research have contributed to the demonization of meat. It suggests that meat consumption has been integral to human health for thousands of years and challenges viewers to reconsider the narrative surrounding meat without relying on outdated and misleading information.

Key Points

Historical Context of Anti-Meat Beliefs

The belief that meat is harmful originated in the early 20th century, influenced by religious views, particularly from the Seventh Day Adventist Church, and early health movements that falsely associated meat consumption with moral and health issues.

Impact of Fiction and Marketing

Fictional works like ‘The Jungle’ and aggressive marketing campaigns by companies like Proctor & Gamble promoted alternatives to meat, such as Crisco, which were marketed as healthier options despite their harmful effects, including the introduction of trans fats.

Correlation vs. Causation in Research

Current dietary guidelines are largely based on correlational studies which can misinterpret data, leading to misconceptions that fat consumption, particularly from animal sources, causes health issues without considering other factors.

Industry Influence on Dietary Recommendations

The sugar industry historically influenced dietary guidelines to downplay sugar’s health risks while exaggerating the dangers of dietary fats. This influence continues to affect modern dietary recommendations and public perceptions of meat.

Modern Dietary Changes and Disease Rates

Despite a decline in red meat consumption, chronic diseases have risen, suggesting that factors like increased vegetable oil consumption and processed foods are more significant contributors to health issues than previously thought.