Smaller portions drive fall in meat consumption Reduced serving sizes account for over half of the decline in UK meat consumption, outpacing other behaviours such as meat-free days, study finds. As meat consumption in the UK continues to fall – having dropped by more than 15 percent on average from 2008 to 2019 – the research shows smaller portions accounted for more than half, or 52 percent, of the overall reduction in meat consumption. Policy implicationsEncouraging smaller portions may be more manageable, particularly for those resistant to cutting out meat completely, the lead researcher explains. By focusing on this approach, policymakers may be able to accelerate efforts toward reducing meat consumption, while also improving health outcomes related to the overconsumption of red and processed meats. The study also notes that white meat consumption has risen, likely due to its lower cost and perceived health benefits compared with red and processed meats.