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The subject of meat and its impact on carbon neutrality objectives is still sensitive in France. All it took was a report from the Court of Auditors on the planning for the decline in cattle herds for a whole sector to wake up. So, where is the consumption of the French?
For Ahmad Habassia former cook, having a barbecue is a must in good weather. “Each season has its convivial moment, and it’s true that it’s more meat than vegetables”, confides the latter. This family from Strasbourg (Bas-Rhin) eats meat at least once a day, and tries to reduce its consumption. “From time to time we make meals completely vegan, it’s good too, (…) there are other ways to get protein than meat. Afterwards, a good barbecue with good meat is always the classic and that’s what pleases everyone.”says Celine Kreyenbihler.
A challenge for health and the climate
In a top-of-the-range Parisian butcher’s shop, prime rib is sold as an exceptional product. The artisan butcher, Adrien Quennepoixworks directly with breeders. “We are convinced that we should eat less meat. So if we eat less, each time it must be exceptional”, he explains. The French still love meat so much. For 10 years, consumption has stagnated, around 85 kg per year and per person, twice as much as the world average. Reducing meat consumption is nevertheless a challenge for health, and for the climate. At this rate, France will struggle to reach its goal of carbon neutrality in 2050.