Meat or no meat, that's the question

This year, for the first time, I faced a new challenge when planning the buffet for the OSV Winter Barbecue. With all the vega(n)-violence around us I wanted to make it more varied. I approached a company that supplies both meat and vegetarian, with the request to sponsor a 'combi buffet'. I was given a challenge to organise a 100% vegetarian barbecue. I kindly declined.

Why? Because I don't think it's up to me to tell people what they can and can't eat. I don't even support a diet of no meat at all. Human beings need meat. We're omnivores, don't forget that. I don't think less meat is an issue. I eat more vegetables, some nuts, legumes; then I don't need meat substitutes. Besides: if everyone only eats vegetables, we have a problem. The globe is too small, we lack 25% farmland for that.

I understand that a lot of companies are focusing on the needs of vegetarian or vegan consumers. Entire production lines are being built to join in on this trend. We are flooded with new products, it is impossible to keep up. Are we not going too far with the meat shame? Where is the option of a mix?  

I went to the Horecava (vegan and veggie) with an open mind. My own son is vegan (he has not got that from me) and I had promised him to inventorise the new flavours and products. I've tasted all the meat substitutes, but I can't get used to the bitter aftertaste they all have. 

Sorry Tom, you'll have to find out for yourself, just give me some real meat.

Saskia Stender