Do Meat-Based or Plant-Based Diets Require More Water?

Water is a precious resource that is essential to our survival. It is not just necessary for drinking but also for growing the food we eat. As a result, our dietary choices can have a significant impact on how much water we consume. In this article, we explore whether meat-based or plant-based diets require more water.

Meat-Based Diets

Meat-based diets typically require more water than plant-based diets. This is because the production of meat is a water-intensive process. It takes an enormous amount of water to feed the animals, maintain their living conditions, and process the meat. According to the Water Footprint Network, it takes around 15,500 liters of water to produce one kilogram of beef, compared to 1,250 liters for one kilogram of wheat.

The draught required for cattle to grow, the water needed to irrigate the crops fed to the animals, and the water needed to process the meat all add up to a significant amount of water consumed. In addition, the run-off from the farms and the processing plants can pollute water sources, further exacerbating the issue of water scarcity.

Plant-Based Diets

Plant-based diets generally require less water than meat-based diets. This is because plants are less water-intensive to produce. While there are some crops, such as almonds and avocados, that require a lot of water to grow, most vegetables, grains, and legumes are relatively low water crops. According to the Water Footprint Network, it takes around 1,250 liters of water to produce one kilogram of wheat, compared to 15,500 liters for one kilogram of beef.

By choosing plant-based diets and avoiding meat, we can decrease our water consumption and potentially help conserve this precious resource. In addition, a plant-based diet is typically associated with better health outcomes and a lower carbon footprint, making it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, meat-based diets require considerably more water than plant-based diets. It may seem like a small change, but choosing to consume more plant-based foods and less meat can have a significant impact on your water consumption and the environment. In addition, plant-based diets are often healthier and more sustainable, making them a win-win option for both you and the planet.