Flexitarianism: Does Eating Mostly Plants Still Count?

What Is Flexitarianism

Flexitarians eat mostly plant-based food but don't rule out meat entirely, allowing themselves the occasional meat dish at gatherings or on holidays. It's less a strict rule than a general leaning toward plants.

Why It's Worth Taking Seriously

A lot of research groups flexitarianism under the broader "reducetarian" movement, on the reasoning that even without going 100% vegetarian, significantly cutting meat intake still delivers real benefits for both health and the environment.

Common Approaches

• Designating two or three fully meat-free days each week
• Keeping home-cooked meals mostly plant-based while staying flexible when eating out
• Cutting back on red meat while keeping white meat and fish

A Word for Beginners

Flexitarianism isn't a lack of commitment — it's a sustainable starting point. Gradually cutting back on meat is often easier to sustain long term than jumping straight to full veganism only to give up soon after. If you're still unsure whether to give yourself a label at all, try starting with something concrete and achievable, like "eat two fewer meat meals this week." That's an easier first step than agonizing over whether you count as a "real" vegetarian, and the results are easier to see, too.