Stanford Study Reveals U.S. Funding and Policy Favor Meat Industry Over Plant-Based Alternatives

Despite the early 2020s surge in popularity for veganism and plant-based diets, recent reports and industry developments suggest a decline in the movement's cultural appeal and market traction. The U.S. meat industry, generating nearly $300 billion in revenue in 2024, continues to dominate, supported by substantial lobbying efforts and public funding that far outpace those for plant-based alternatives. High-profile shifts, such as Eleven Madison Park reverting from an all-vegan menu to including meat and fish, have fueled perceptions of a vegan backlash, though some argue this change reflects broader market realities rather than a complete movement failure. Nevertheless, vegan cuisine has evolved to offer a diverse array of flavorful, nutritious dishes that appeal to both devoted vegans and curious newcomers, highlighting ongoing culinary innovation. The vegan movement's challenges are underscored by the entrenched cultural and economic dominance of meat but continue to inspire diverse dietary options and awareness efforts, such as World Vegetarian Day, which promotes vegetarianism globally each October. These trends illustrate the complex dynamics between dietary preferences, cultural shifts, and industry power in shaping the future of food consumption.