Denver Summit Rallies Meat Industry Leaders Against Anti-Meat Campaigns
In Denver, meat industry leaders and scientists from around the globe, including a prominent Australian delegation, gathered to tackle a formidable challenge: countering the intensifying anti-meat movement with scientific evidence and collaborative strategies.
The summit, a follow-up to the 2022 Dublin Declaration, focused on amplifying support for meat’s role in global nutrition and economy.
Over 1,200 scientists have signed the declaration, which champions meat’s role in addressing nutritional needs worldwide, particularly in malnourished populations.
An Industry Under Fire
At the summit, industry representatives shared insights on combating anti-meat policies. In Europe, strict environmental regulations restrict tools and imports linked to deforestation, often making it difficult for farmers to meet low-emission standards.
These “wicked problems,” as one delegate described, expose the industry’s struggle against a persistent narrative to reduce or eliminate red meat.
Dr. Frederic Leroy, a Belgian scientist and summit speaker, highlighted the movement’s hurdles. “The Dublin Declaration is not an argument for business as usual,” he stated, challenging critics who argue that the declaration ignores climate concerns.
He emphasized a balanced approach, saying, “We’re calling for scientifically sound solutions tailored to diverse needs, especially to feed malnourished populations.”
Environmental and Nutritional Debates
The summit also underscored a divide within the industry on environmental solutions. During discussions on soil carbon and grazing practices, attendees debated the merits of extensive grazing versus lotfeeding and the implications of environmental regulations.
However, there was widespread agreement on red meat’s nutritional benefits. Researchers like Ty Beal and Lora Lannotti presented studies supporting red meat’s role in combating global nutrition issues, from obesity in wealthier nations to malnutrition in developing ones.
Despite obstacles in publishing research that supports meat’s health benefits, the summit affirmed a shared commitment to red meat as an essential part of dietary guidelines.
Dr. Leroy praised the conference’s collaborative approach, calling it “a unique platform for diverse expertise to shape the role of animals in our food systems.”
As anti-meat campaigns grow more influential, Denver’s summit highlights the need for industry unity and credible science to navigate an increasingly complex global food landscape.
Discover how global experts are advocating for red meat’s role in combating malnutrition and supporting food systems by visiting our homepage.
