The flexitarian diet is more of a lifestyle than a dietary requirement.

 A flexitarian is a person who has a primarily vegetarian diet but occasionally eats meat or fish. Some people are probably following this type of diet without even realising and those with medical conditions associated with diet such as gout, intolerance and acne are likely to incorporate elements of this lifestyle to improve their symptoms.

So what does it mean? A vegetarian eliminate meat and sometimes other animal foods, while vegans completely restrict meat, fish, eggs, dairy and all animal-derived food products. Flexitarianism or 'casual vegetarianism' is an increasingly popular, plant-based diet that claims to improve health and reduce your carbon footprint whereby you are mostly vegetarian yet still eat occasional meat dish. The rise of the flexitarian diet is a result of people taking a more sustainable approach to what they eat by reducing their meat consumption in exchange for alternative protein sources. 

BBC Good Food dietitian Emer Delaney explains

‘Following a flexitarian diet highlights an increased intake of plant-based meals without completely eliminating meat. It is about adding new foods to your diet as opposed to excluding any, which can be extremely beneficial for health. These plant-based foods include lentils, beans, peas, nuts and seeds, all excellent sources of protein’.

Author of the Flexitarian Diet, Dawn Jackson Blatner spells out how to start eating flexitarian by incorporating certain amounts of meat per week in her book.

The Fexitarian Diet has no rules but is based on the following principles:

• Eat mostly fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
• Focus on protein from plants.
• Includes meat and animal products from time to time.
• Selection of natural form of foods.
• Limit added sugar.

Due to its flexible nature and focus on what to include rather than restrict, the Flexitarian Diet is a popular choice for people looking to eat a healthier and cleaner diet. Avoiding processed foods and looking for more natural choices is the main aim of the individual.

It is good practice to utilise the ideals of flexitarianism in menu planning for your business or school. Promotion of environmentally sustainable options and variety are the aim of an interesting and modern selection. #

For any advice on menu planning, purchasing or dietary requirement planning, Red Box are experienced in supporting schools and contract caterers with these considerations and we would welcome the opportunity to support your site.