A THIRD of meat eaters would be tempted to become vegan if there was more choice in restaurants.
A poll of 1,000 non-vegans found 78 per cent already choose to have meat-free days – an average of two a week.
And 30 per cent recognise cutting out animal products is better for the environment.
As a result, 47 per cent believe it’s important for restaurants to provide a wide variety of plant-based options, to cater for dietary preferences (71 per cent), promote healthier eating habits (57 per cent) and protect animals (42 per cent).
The research was commissioned by Viva! to launch its 50by25 campaign, encouraging restaurants to have half vegan options on their menu by the end of 2025.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “It’s great to see so many meat eaters consider adopting a vegan diet, not just for the animals they are saving, but to protect planet as well.
Read More in Fabulous
“A plant-based diet can cut a dish’s climate impact by half, so it really is a big difference compared to meat alternatives.
“And it’s a really positive step to see even people who don’t follow a vegan diet recognise and act on this.”
The research also found 41 per cent have seen an increase of vegan options in their local restaurants within the last five years.
And 49 per cent see this as a big positive for their local community, as 68 per cent think it’s important for food to have a low environmental footprint.
Most read in Fabulous
It also emerged 31 per cent would reduce their meat intake to be more eco-friendly, according to the stats by OnePoll.
The spokesperson for Viva! added: “When shopping in a supermarket and picking your own ingredients, it’s easy to stay in control of a vegan diet.
"But a lack of choice in some restaurants makes it harder, especially when nothing tickles your fancy.
“Restaurants can also play a vital role in shaping people’s eating habits – showcasing plant-based food that is not only planet-friendly but tasty and exciting as well.”
With more than half a million people taking part in Veganuary each year, it could help you live a longer life.
A new study by Stanford Medicine in the US found that just one month on a plant-based diet boosts heart health and slashes our risk of diabetes.
With tasty fakes on supermarket shelves, it’s easier than ever to swap meat for meatless meals.
Even fast food chains McDonald’s, Greggs and KFC cook up convincing plant-based bites.