More Young People Going The Vegetarian Route

The growth of vegetarian food options within schools, restaurants, and grocery stores suggest that there is growing popularity of vegetarianism among youths. As many as 3% of those age 8 to 18 years are vegetarian, according to a 2005 Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG) survey.

A 2005 Harris Interactive poll showed that 3% of Americans ages 8 to 18 are vegetarians, meaning they do not eat meat, poultry or fish, but may consume eggs and dairy. That figure is up 1% from a previous poll (though the margin of error makes that increase nominal at best).

Dietary and food trends seem to suggest that there is growing interest in vegetarianism among the youth, age 8 to 18 years old. This is demonstrated in the greater presence of vegetarian food items in schools, restaurants, and in mainstream grocery stores.

Young people cite a host of reasons for going meat-free, such as personal taste, concerns about animal treatment, environmental questions surrounding livestock and the influence of peers and celebrities. However, many non-vegetarian parents worry whether their children are getting enough nutritious food when they avoid meat.