Chicken consumption has increased sixfold over the last six decades

A new report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation reveals a dramatic shift in global dietary habits over the past six decades. The amount of poultry available for consumption has risen from fewer than 3 kilograms per capita in 1961 to 17 kilograms in 2022, marking a nearly sixfold increase.

This trend extends beyond chicken alone. The supply of pork has doubled over the same period, reaching 15 kilograms per person, whilst beef has remained relatively stable at 9 kilograms. Overall, the average global meat supply has grown from 25 to 47 kilograms per person.

Environmental and Health Impact

Agriculture is the second most polluting sector in the global economy. Over the next decade, emissions from this sector are expected to rise by 7.6%, with approximately 80% of that increase coming from livestock farming. For older adults who spend more time at home and in their local communities, air quality and the surrounding environment are essential factors for their health and wellbeing.

A further concern is waste: 14% of the meat and dairy produced worldwide is lost along the supply chain or discarded after reaching shops and restaurants. This situation affects both food prices and the environmental sustainability of the communities in which elderly people live.

Affordability Remains a Challenge

Access to animal-based products remains deeply unequal across regions. UN experts highlight that whilst developed countries record consistently high consumption levels, in poorer nations many people cannot afford to purchase animal-based products. For pensioners on low incomes, this reality can be felt in Romania too, where the cost of animal-based foods accounts for a significant portion of the monthly budget.

Recommendations for a Balanced Diet

Climate change experts consider that reducing meat consumption and shifting towards more plant-based foods is one of the most effective ways in which people can contribute to limiting global warming. For older adults, this change may bring additional health benefits, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and improved digestion.

The UN will publish a dedicated report by the end of the year on the environmental impact of animal husbandry, covering everything from greenhouse gas emissions to the use of natural resources, thereby offering a more comprehensive perspective on this complex issue.