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Meat Me Halfway: How Changing the Way We Eat Can Improve Our Lives and Save Our Planet
In Meat Me Halfway, author and founder of the reducetarian movement Brian Kateman puts forth a realistic and balanced goal: mindfully reduce your meat consumption. It might seem strange for a leader of the plant-based movement to say, but meat is here to stay. The question is not how to ween society off meat, but how to make meat more healthy, more humane, and more sustainable.
Brian Kateman coined the term "reducetarian" in 2014 to describe a person who is deliberately reducing their consumption of meat. Since then he gave a celebrated TEDx Talk (with nearly 1,000,000 views) on the reducetarian concept that has been praised by thought leaders.
In 2015, Kateman founded The Reducetarian Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to reducing societal meat consumption.
In 2017, Kateman organized the first-ever Reducetarian Summit, which attracted over 70 speakers and 500 attendees, and it has since grown to 750 attendees annually. The next summit is scheduled for fall 2021.
He is the author of The Reducetarian Solution and The Reducetarian Cookbook, and is the lead producer of the documentary version of Meat Me Halfway released and streamed on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and more.
Brian Kateman coined the term "reducetarian" in 2014 to describe a person who is deliberately reducing their consumption of meat. Since then he gave a celebrated TEDx Talk (with nearly 1,000,000 views) on the reducetarian concept that has been praised by thought leaders.
In 2015, Kateman founded The Reducetarian Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to reducing societal meat consumption.
In 2017, Kateman organized the first-ever Reducetarian Summit, which attracted over 70 speakers and 500 attendees, and it has since grown to 750 attendees annually. The next summit is scheduled for fall 2021.
He is the author of The Reducetarian Solution and The Reducetarian Cookbook, and is the lead producer of the documentary version of Meat Me Halfway released and streamed on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and more.
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Published May 19, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 5, 2022
"Meat Me Halfway" is a book promoting reducitarianism, a way of eating that aims to purposefully reduce the amount of animal products we eat. But without stressing too much if/when we want to eat a little meat here and there. The reasoning being that everyone can't or won't stick to a fully plantbased diet; by removing the stress from falling off the wagon, we're more likely to stick to a changed diet and thus "save the planet."
The author coined the term reducitarian - essentially as a reaction to his own failures maintaining a plantbased diet - and "Meat Me Halfway" rationalizes his current, more moderate approach to eating. Personally, I think it's a very compelling argument. I have zero hope for all of us converting to a fully plantbased diet - in fact, despite my own choice to eat plantbased, I do not think it would be a good idea for all of us to make the same choice (but that's another discussion). Kateman argues - and I agree - that we'll manage to do more collective good by employing a more moderate approach.
So far so good. However, while this is the author's stated argument with this book - presenting this, the reducitarian view - that's not the book I read. Sure, the argument was made. In a rushed manner and towards the end of the book. Up until then, it was essentially a history of how Kateman thinks we (or, especially Americans) got hooked on meat, with some added shit practices surrounding the production of animal-based foods. Which was interesting, but not what the title said I'd be getting. Unfortunately it also made the book more U.S.-centric than I would have preferred.
Overall the book would have arguably been a three-star read with the right title. Instead, I think it did a disservice to the reducitarian movement, and I would strongly advise a re-write - or, well, a re-structuring whereby making the title claim the focal point and majority of the book. But maybe that's the rub. Perhaps reducitarianism doesn't quite add up to a full book-production?
After all, if you're trying to eat less meat, you're already a reducitarian. And if so, this book is essentially "just" telling you to try harder. Maybe that's not interesting enough? Even if it gives you a "sexy" new identifier to call yourself by. And yes, in some small way that is contributing to saving our planet - or, well, at least not killing it as fast.
I likely won't recommend the book to too many people, but I will continue to promote the concept.
The author coined the term reducitarian - essentially as a reaction to his own failures maintaining a plantbased diet - and "Meat Me Halfway" rationalizes his current, more moderate approach to eating. Personally, I think it's a very compelling argument. I have zero hope for all of us converting to a fully plantbased diet - in fact, despite my own choice to eat plantbased, I do not think it would be a good idea for all of us to make the same choice (but that's another discussion). Kateman argues - and I agree - that we'll manage to do more collective good by employing a more moderate approach.
So far so good. However, while this is the author's stated argument with this book - presenting this, the reducitarian view - that's not the book I read. Sure, the argument was made. In a rushed manner and towards the end of the book. Up until then, it was essentially a history of how Kateman thinks we (or, especially Americans) got hooked on meat, with some added shit practices surrounding the production of animal-based foods. Which was interesting, but not what the title said I'd be getting. Unfortunately it also made the book more U.S.-centric than I would have preferred.
Overall the book would have arguably been a three-star read with the right title. Instead, I think it did a disservice to the reducitarian movement, and I would strongly advise a re-write - or, well, a re-structuring whereby making the title claim the focal point and majority of the book. But maybe that's the rub. Perhaps reducitarianism doesn't quite add up to a full book-production?
After all, if you're trying to eat less meat, you're already a reducitarian. And if so, this book is essentially "just" telling you to try harder. Maybe that's not interesting enough? Even if it gives you a "sexy" new identifier to call yourself by. And yes, in some small way that is contributing to saving our planet - or, well, at least not killing it as fast.
I likely won't recommend the book to too many people, but I will continue to promote the concept.
November 29, 2023
Based on the title and subtitle, I expected something different. Most of this was food history, not practical changes normal people can make to help the planet.
The first half of the book is about how Americans got to where we are in terms of our relationship to meat. It's interesting, but I definitely was hoping for information on what the subtitle said the book was about: changing the way we eat to help the planet and our health. It ends with exactly three chapters of things that are good in theory but not yet sustainable for large-scale production or available to the general public.
Overall, I wish this was marketed as a food history book, because that's the function it ultimately serves.
The first half of the book is about how Americans got to where we are in terms of our relationship to meat. It's interesting, but I definitely was hoping for information on what the subtitle said the book was about: changing the way we eat to help the planet and our health. It ends with exactly three chapters of things that are good in theory but not yet sustainable for large-scale production or available to the general public.
Overall, I wish this was marketed as a food history book, because that's the function it ultimately serves.
August 14, 2023
From the title, I expected this would provide practical ideas for changing one's own diet to eat less meat and helping others to do likewise. These could include ways to ease into it, how to substitute less familiar plant-based dishes for more common meat-centered items, and so on. (I've been vegan for 35 years, so I don't need this myself, but am always interested in various authors' advice.) Apparently the place to look for Kateman's suggestions along these lines would be his earlier book Reducetarian Solution. But this doesn't mean that Meat Me Halfway disappoints -- not at all.
What we find here is first, an engrossing and detailed history of meat, meat processing and meat marketing in America, going back to the first arrival of Europeans in the 16th century and taking it all the way up to the late 20th with the development of McDonald's. Then we move to exploring how the taste of meat has been enhanced with natural and artificial flavorings that can increase craving. The chapter "Tricks of the Trade," on meat industry check-offs, government subsidies, and ag-gag laws, which I already knew something about, was nonetheless eye-opening due to the detail that the author includes, not shying away from contradictions. That was followed by a chapter on the always-fascinating "meat paradox": the widespread tendency of people to say they care about and want to prevent cruelty to animals, yet eat factory-farmed meat frequently without any qualms.
The book concludes with a look at three possibilities, along with interviews with pioneering leaders, for a future with less meat: better meat, plant-based meat, and cell-cultured meat. Meat Me Halfway serves as a one-volume education about the whole background, current trends, and future directions of meat production and consumption. Now I want to watch the documentary by the same title.
What we find here is first, an engrossing and detailed history of meat, meat processing and meat marketing in America, going back to the first arrival of Europeans in the 16th century and taking it all the way up to the late 20th with the development of McDonald's. Then we move to exploring how the taste of meat has been enhanced with natural and artificial flavorings that can increase craving. The chapter "Tricks of the Trade," on meat industry check-offs, government subsidies, and ag-gag laws, which I already knew something about, was nonetheless eye-opening due to the detail that the author includes, not shying away from contradictions. That was followed by a chapter on the always-fascinating "meat paradox": the widespread tendency of people to say they care about and want to prevent cruelty to animals, yet eat factory-farmed meat frequently without any qualms.
The book concludes with a look at three possibilities, along with interviews with pioneering leaders, for a future with less meat: better meat, plant-based meat, and cell-cultured meat. Meat Me Halfway serves as a one-volume education about the whole background, current trends, and future directions of meat production and consumption. Now I want to watch the documentary by the same title.
April 20, 2022
As a dietitian and former Whole Food Plant Based eater this book caught my attention. Kateman reasons through numerous reasons why humans crave meat. He examines "meat" culture from a variety of view points. I really appreciate how he looked at both sides of the argument: Pro Meat and Pro Plant Based.
The author himself makes his political and social beliefs apparent in the book (Definatly could do with less commentary on how bad Trump/Conservatives are, his view on evolution (he needs to read the Bible and realize God created the Heavens and the Earth-as is, no evolution, all for His glory (Please look up John McArthur's sermon series on creation, it will change your life) and for sure less about his dog) That being said he was honest. I liked how he did not give off the usual "Holier than thou" vibe many nutrition books can give off. Like if you don't follow my way of eating to a T you are scum, unhealthy and violating all kinds of "rules". I admittedly got caught up in the strict Whole Food Plant Based diet for a while and was "shamed" if I made a "mistake" and ate something against the rules. Thankfully my eyes were opened and I can agree with Brian Bateman than meat is a healthy part of our diet. We should not be pounding down meat all day every day, but there is a place for it on our plates.
He makes a great argument about the tragedy of factory farming (Eww!) I appreciate the fact that he looked at alternative meats and pointed out they are often marketed as "Health"food but in reality they are just frankenfood and technically more unhealthy than their meat counterparts. Personally I like for the ingreindts in my hamburger to be 100% beef not Water, Soy Protein Concentrate, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavors, 2% Or Less Of: Potato Protein, Methylcellulose, Yeast Extract, Cultured Dextrose, Food Starch Modified, Soy Leghemoglobin, Salt, Mixed Tocopherols (Antioxidant), Soy Protein Isolate, Vitamins and Minerals (Zinc Gluconate, Thiamine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B1), Niacin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin B12).
Let's see what else? Oh I was fascinated by the research he did for this book. I did not know much about the recent movement to "grow" meat in a lab--I will pass on that as well. But it was great information.
A well balanced argument! I think it could help both the carnivores and the Whole Foods plant based followers find a happy medium....off to eat some broccoli and chicken! Enjoy!
The author himself makes his political and social beliefs apparent in the book (Definatly could do with less commentary on how bad Trump/Conservatives are, his view on evolution (he needs to read the Bible and realize God created the Heavens and the Earth-as is, no evolution, all for His glory (Please look up John McArthur's sermon series on creation, it will change your life) and for sure less about his dog) That being said he was honest. I liked how he did not give off the usual "Holier than thou" vibe many nutrition books can give off. Like if you don't follow my way of eating to a T you are scum, unhealthy and violating all kinds of "rules". I admittedly got caught up in the strict Whole Food Plant Based diet for a while and was "shamed" if I made a "mistake" and ate something against the rules. Thankfully my eyes were opened and I can agree with Brian Bateman than meat is a healthy part of our diet. We should not be pounding down meat all day every day, but there is a place for it on our plates.
He makes a great argument about the tragedy of factory farming (Eww!) I appreciate the fact that he looked at alternative meats and pointed out they are often marketed as "Health"food but in reality they are just frankenfood and technically more unhealthy than their meat counterparts. Personally I like for the ingreindts in my hamburger to be 100% beef not Water, Soy Protein Concentrate, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavors, 2% Or Less Of: Potato Protein, Methylcellulose, Yeast Extract, Cultured Dextrose, Food Starch Modified, Soy Leghemoglobin, Salt, Mixed Tocopherols (Antioxidant), Soy Protein Isolate, Vitamins and Minerals (Zinc Gluconate, Thiamine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B1), Niacin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin B12).
Let's see what else? Oh I was fascinated by the research he did for this book. I did not know much about the recent movement to "grow" meat in a lab--I will pass on that as well. But it was great information.
A well balanced argument! I think it could help both the carnivores and the Whole Foods plant based followers find a happy medium....off to eat some broccoli and chicken! Enjoy!
March 23, 2022
The debate over meat consumption is complicated and heartfelt on both sides. On one hand, it's hard to give up the pleasure of eating a really good burger, but on the other, there are a lot of people who feel sad for the animal life that is cut short to provide the meat for that burger. Brian Kateman is the founder of the reducetarian movement, where the goal is not to obliterate meat consumption entirely, but rather to make meat healthier for us, more humane for the animals involved, and more sustainable for the planet.
Kateman looks at many of the different aspects of the meat industry. One of the things that was most interesting to me was his look at meat grown in a lab. This gives me the most hope for a humane meat industry. The animals don't need to be slaughtered, and people aren't forced to give up their sandwiches and such. No doubt it will be controversial as it becomes more available to the general public, but I was fascinated to read about how lab-grown meat has been developed so far and where the industry is hoping to go.
It might be good to note that as with most books that tackle the meat industry, there are descriptions of animals going to the slaughterhouse. I personally found these places difficult to read, and rightfully so. It is too easy to forget or be ignorant of the fact that a life was taken for me to eat dinner most nights. For anyone like me who is sensitive to animals being killed, just be cautious as you're reading this book.
Overall, this is a really helpful read for anyone who sees the need for changing their meat consumption. Kateman's philosophy is empowering to me because my family is not at the point where it would be easy to cut out meat entirely, but we can reduce the amount of meat that we eat and this is a good reminder that it's important to do so.
Thank you to Brian Kateman, Rowman & Littlefield, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kateman looks at many of the different aspects of the meat industry. One of the things that was most interesting to me was his look at meat grown in a lab. This gives me the most hope for a humane meat industry. The animals don't need to be slaughtered, and people aren't forced to give up their sandwiches and such. No doubt it will be controversial as it becomes more available to the general public, but I was fascinated to read about how lab-grown meat has been developed so far and where the industry is hoping to go.
It might be good to note that as with most books that tackle the meat industry, there are descriptions of animals going to the slaughterhouse. I personally found these places difficult to read, and rightfully so. It is too easy to forget or be ignorant of the fact that a life was taken for me to eat dinner most nights. For anyone like me who is sensitive to animals being killed, just be cautious as you're reading this book.
Overall, this is a really helpful read for anyone who sees the need for changing their meat consumption. Kateman's philosophy is empowering to me because my family is not at the point where it would be easy to cut out meat entirely, but we can reduce the amount of meat that we eat and this is a good reminder that it's important to do so.
Thank you to Brian Kateman, Rowman & Littlefield, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2025
In Meat Me Halfway, Brian Kateman, the founder of the reducetarian movement, presents a thought-provoking and practical approach to reducing meat consumption without eliminating it entirely. Aiming to bridge the gap between meat lovers and plant-based advocates, Kateman advocates for a balanced and mindful reduction of meat in our diets, arguing that a middle ground is the most realistic path toward improving health, reducing environmental impact, and promoting animal welfare.
The book is based on the idea of being a "reducetarian," a term coined by Kateman in 2014 to describe individuals who deliberately eat less meat. Rather than pushing for full-on vegetarianism or veganism, Kateman promotes a more flexible approach, focusing on moderation and conscious choices. He argues that the issue isn't necessarily about eradicating meat entirely but about making meat consumption healthier, more humane, and sustainable.
Kateman's position is sensible and approachable, especially for readers who might be skeptical of extreme dietary changes. However, the book can sometimes feel repetitive and lacks the deeper, more compelling insights that might push readers to take more immediate action. While Kateman's arguments are sound, the call to reduce meat consumption through gradual change may not be impactful enough for readers already committed to making major dietary shifts or those who are not yet inclined to change.
Ultimately, Meat Me Halfway offers a reasonable and balanced perspective on how society can begin to reduce its meat consumption without forcing drastic measures. It’s a good introduction for those interested in reducing their environmental footprint or improving their health through small, sustainable dietary changes, but may not resonate as deeply for readers seeking a more radical or transformative approach to the issue.
The book is based on the idea of being a "reducetarian," a term coined by Kateman in 2014 to describe individuals who deliberately eat less meat. Rather than pushing for full-on vegetarianism or veganism, Kateman promotes a more flexible approach, focusing on moderation and conscious choices. He argues that the issue isn't necessarily about eradicating meat entirely but about making meat consumption healthier, more humane, and sustainable.
Kateman's position is sensible and approachable, especially for readers who might be skeptical of extreme dietary changes. However, the book can sometimes feel repetitive and lacks the deeper, more compelling insights that might push readers to take more immediate action. While Kateman's arguments are sound, the call to reduce meat consumption through gradual change may not be impactful enough for readers already committed to making major dietary shifts or those who are not yet inclined to change.
Ultimately, Meat Me Halfway offers a reasonable and balanced perspective on how society can begin to reduce its meat consumption without forcing drastic measures. It’s a good introduction for those interested in reducing their environmental footprint or improving their health through small, sustainable dietary changes, but may not resonate as deeply for readers seeking a more radical or transformative approach to the issue.
April 12, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley for providing the ARC audiobook.
I really liked the narrator and thought he was easy to listen to and process what he was saying. In terms of content, I did learn quite a few new things. I'm "flexitarian" I suppose, I've always believed in the philosophy that a diet doesn't have to be 100% strict and limiting. I've found that strict diets bring much more shame and bad energy than its worth. That was the main reason I wanted to read this one.
Two things - first, the content matter was extremely interesting. I especially liked the section on McDonald's and the rise of fast food and why Americans have become so addicted to processed meats and junk foods. But on the flip side, I also felt like the build-up was too long before we got to the actual meat of the book (pun intended). By the time the narrator started sharing Part 3 on what to do about a mixed diet and how to apply the information you have learned to your own life, there was only around an hour and a half left of an 8 hour book. That's not to complain about the content or lesson the earlier material (which was interesting), but just to say maybe the blurb or info surrounding the promotion of the book could be slightly more clear.
One thing I kept thinking while listening was how if this material was condensed a little bit and dramatized more, it could be a great podcast series. Overall, decent book, I definitely had a few good takeaways and I'm glad I had the chance to listen to the audiobook.
I really liked the narrator and thought he was easy to listen to and process what he was saying. In terms of content, I did learn quite a few new things. I'm "flexitarian" I suppose, I've always believed in the philosophy that a diet doesn't have to be 100% strict and limiting. I've found that strict diets bring much more shame and bad energy than its worth. That was the main reason I wanted to read this one.
Two things - first, the content matter was extremely interesting. I especially liked the section on McDonald's and the rise of fast food and why Americans have become so addicted to processed meats and junk foods. But on the flip side, I also felt like the build-up was too long before we got to the actual meat of the book (pun intended). By the time the narrator started sharing Part 3 on what to do about a mixed diet and how to apply the information you have learned to your own life, there was only around an hour and a half left of an 8 hour book. That's not to complain about the content or lesson the earlier material (which was interesting), but just to say maybe the blurb or info surrounding the promotion of the book could be slightly more clear.
One thing I kept thinking while listening was how if this material was condensed a little bit and dramatized more, it could be a great podcast series. Overall, decent book, I definitely had a few good takeaways and I'm glad I had the chance to listen to the audiobook.
April 30, 2022
All of my review below is basically a lot of words (I feel passionately about this) to say one simple thing: The Reducetarian movement has been life-changing, and “Meat Me Halfway” is the perfect entry point for those who are curious about the movement, or in reducing their contribution to climate change, or increasing animal welfare - and so much more. Folks, you won’t be sorry that you purchased this book!
Kateman takes what some might consider to be some of the most basic, fundamental questions of humanity - what and why do we eat? - and, through a modern lens, attempts to answer that question in a succinct and distinctly satisfying 278-page tome. More than that, though, he takes this opportunity to engage with his audience and discuss his thoughts on how we might save the planet and save ourselves through a reduction of our meat consumption, through more sustainable food production, etc. In other words, we can have our cake, and eat it, too: Kateman talks about a movement he started - Reducetarianism - which serves as a perfect middle ground between our vegan and carnivorous friends.
Kateman takes what some might consider to be some of the most basic, fundamental questions of humanity - what and why do we eat? - and, through a modern lens, attempts to answer that question in a succinct and distinctly satisfying 278-page tome. More than that, though, he takes this opportunity to engage with his audience and discuss his thoughts on how we might save the planet and save ourselves through a reduction of our meat consumption, through more sustainable food production, etc. In other words, we can have our cake, and eat it, too: Kateman talks about a movement he started - Reducetarianism - which serves as a perfect middle ground between our vegan and carnivorous friends.
April 18, 2022
This book discusses the history of meat consumption, specifically in the United States, and why we should change how we eat. The book spends the majority of its words on this history, which is interesting, but only the final quarter on how and why we should reduce our usage of it.
Narrator Pete Cross did a great job with pacing and keeping the listener engaged with the book. The material itself did wander afield, though the rabbit tails themselves did give me cause to consider. Our household eats a primarily plant-based diet, so I suppose we would be called flexitarian in current vernacular.
“Meat Me Half Way” gets three stars. This book had highs and lows, though it dragged at times. The author made his position clear throughout, but was heavy-handed at the very end. A mixed bag overall. My thanks to Dreamscape Media via Netgalley.
#MeatMeHalfWay #NetGalley #PeteCross #dreamscapemedia #KindlesAllTheWayDown #KatzAllTheWayDown #ifcatscouldread #booksandcats #catsandbooks #booksandcatstagram #catsandbookstagram
#bookstagram #Catstagram #audiobooks #flexitarian
Narrator Pete Cross did a great job with pacing and keeping the listener engaged with the book. The material itself did wander afield, though the rabbit tails themselves did give me cause to consider. Our household eats a primarily plant-based diet, so I suppose we would be called flexitarian in current vernacular.
“Meat Me Half Way” gets three stars. This book had highs and lows, though it dragged at times. The author made his position clear throughout, but was heavy-handed at the very end. A mixed bag overall. My thanks to Dreamscape Media via Netgalley.
#MeatMeHalfWay #NetGalley #PeteCross #dreamscapemedia #KindlesAllTheWayDown #KatzAllTheWayDown #ifcatscouldread #booksandcats #catsandbooks #booksandcatstagram #catsandbookstagram
#bookstagram #Catstagram #audiobooks #flexitarian
November 10, 2023
This book is filled to the brim with things I didn't know I didn't know. I picked it up on a whim and I am so glad that I did. I was already reducing my meat intake and eating more plant-forward dishes, but now I feel more informed about what a good choice that was 😂
This is another book that if I could convince more people to read it, I would. I want to shove it in everyone's hands and tell them they'll understand so much more about the world after they read it. I also happen to be reading some science magazines recently, and this book pairs very well with all of that cutting edge research and future thinking, to the point that near the end of the book, something that wasn’t happening when it was written /is/ happening now, which only makes the message of hope at the end even greater.
The only thing is, I really don't like the name reducetarian and I will not be calling myself that 🤣🤣🤣 The poor author spent so long picking that name out and making it a thing and it's just clunky on the tongue and not catchy at all I'msosorryhahahahaha
This is another book that if I could convince more people to read it, I would. I want to shove it in everyone's hands and tell them they'll understand so much more about the world after they read it. I also happen to be reading some science magazines recently, and this book pairs very well with all of that cutting edge research and future thinking, to the point that near the end of the book, something that wasn’t happening when it was written /is/ happening now, which only makes the message of hope at the end even greater.
The only thing is, I really don't like the name reducetarian and I will not be calling myself that 🤣🤣🤣 The poor author spent so long picking that name out and making it a thing and it's just clunky on the tongue and not catchy at all I'msosorryhahahahaha
May 10, 2022
This book is about the history of America's obsession with eating meat. It was an interesting read that covered everything from colonists to frozen tv dinners to the creation of plant-based meat substitutes.
The author stated in the beginning that he is a mostly plant-based flex eater. I was hoping to read more about his journey to making that change in his life, but he didn't really talk about it. He talked about struggles with his friends and family understanding his choices somedays, but not the path that got him to change his eating habits. All of the historical information was fascinating to read, but I do wish he had given more of his personal history that led to making the changes he did.
Also, the cover implies that there will be some focus on the environmental impacts of meat vs plant-based diets, and it is touched on a little, but not as much as I expected considering it is the subtitle of the book.
The author stated in the beginning that he is a mostly plant-based flex eater. I was hoping to read more about his journey to making that change in his life, but he didn't really talk about it. He talked about struggles with his friends and family understanding his choices somedays, but not the path that got him to change his eating habits. All of the historical information was fascinating to read, but I do wish he had given more of his personal history that led to making the changes he did.
Also, the cover implies that there will be some focus on the environmental impacts of meat vs plant-based diets, and it is touched on a little, but not as much as I expected considering it is the subtitle of the book.
April 5, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the audiobook ARC of this book. I was very intrigued when I came across Meat Me Halfway. While I was expecting more of an explanation on how to switch habits (as the blurb suggests that) the book provided a clear insight into how meat became a very big part of American life. If you aren't familiar with the food history, the current conditions regarding animal production and the political landscape that is impacted by this, this book contains a lot of interesting information. It discusses the psychology and sociology behind meat eating. It finally talks about ways innovations have been made on the moral meat production front. For someone new to the topic it's a great starting point.
The audiobook narration flows great and fits the book really well.
The audiobook narration flows great and fits the book really well.
May 16, 2025
This was not what I expected it to be. It’s not deeply about climate change or how to follow a reduced meat diet. This is really a book about human consumption of meat, the meat industry, current meat alternatives, factory farming, American consumption of meat, the meat lobby, meat and masculinity, and other related topics. It was well written, I sincerely enjoyed. Add it to my list of history/political science books. It falls into to the same category as ‘The Case Against Sugar.’
That last chapter was awesome. It talked about how groups that have the most in common can often be the most divided; vegans and vegetarians, Hillary and Bernie supporters. That we need to over come those. It was a great closer
That last chapter was awesome. It talked about how groups that have the most in common can often be the most divided; vegans and vegetarians, Hillary and Bernie supporters. That we need to over come those. It was a great closer
April 24, 2022
3.5 stars. Part memoir and part manifesto, this is interesting (if occasionally quite upsetting) reading, but while it clearly explored the history and laid out the problems with America's meat consumption, I had hoped for more practical guidance on how to reduce meat intake and create a more sustainable lifestyle. It's not that this wasn't well-written, and the author's points were well-supported, but I found myself impatient for discussion on what to actually DO about the problem.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
September 1, 2022
I listened to the audio version of this book and it is very well done. I plan to read the paper copy so I can peruse the book better. What I go out of it was a very detailed and sometimes rather gruesome history of the meat industry. I do think that the book gives rather compelling reasons for cutting back on meat consumption.
August 30, 2025
I received this book when I went to the Reducaritarian Summit a few years ago, back when I worked in the sustainable food space. I enjoyed this book, I think it was more of a history/explanation of why we are at where we're at today, with regards to the modern food industry. It's not quite a praise or guide to reducing meat consumption.
February 21, 2025
I appreciate the research that went into this book. I found the descriptions of the different meat alternatives interesting. The author wants people to have an open mind about the future of meat alternatives with the common goal of reducing our dependence on factory farms.
September 6, 2022
Chock full of excellent research and information!
February 14, 2023
Excellent book with a lot of ideas that challenge both veganism and carnism.
Did Not Finish
December 7, 2023DNF 80% of the way through. I planned to finish, but to do so will require a purchase.
It was interesting to learn about the history of how society ate meat and the politics behind it today.
It was interesting to learn about the history of how society ate meat and the politics behind it today.
March 22, 2025
The book took too much time with history of meat and maybe nit enough on solutions. Very interesting on future of plant and lab grown meat.
April 17, 2022
Interesting history of meat - why we eat so much, where this origin came from and why we can’t seem to stop. Only criticism is seemed super history heavy but makes sense for the book. Loved the history on meatless options. Very interesting. Highly recommend. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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