Researchers from the University of Oxford’s Environmental Change Institute have suggested that a global shift towards plant-based diets could lead to significant changes in the agricultural sector. Transitioning away from high-impact meat and dairy towards more sustainable plant foods could reduce labour costs and revolutionize farming practices. This shift could result in a 5% reduction in labour for flexitarian and pescetarian diets, and a 22 to 28% reduction for vegetarian and vegan diets by 2030.

The current meat-focused food system is unsustainable and intersects with various labour issues in the industry. To support farmers and agricultural workers during this transition, retraining, redeployment, and investment in plant-based food production will be essential. Consistent strategies and political support will be necessary to enable just transitions for workers as the food system evolves towards prioritizing plants over meat and dairy.