The Reducetarian Solution

February 20, 2017
Kateman, president of the nonprofit Reducetarian Foundation, writes that he launched it in 2014 when he realized that many people, like himself, were committed to eating less meat without becoming card-carrying vegans or vegetarians. That said, reducetarianism includes the latter two groups, and is meant to “unite the growing community of individuals who are committed to eating less meat.” This book is an illuminating collection of 70 brief, pithy essays written by “thought leaders” in the food realm, including authors, researchers, educators, and even a stand-up comedian. Divided into three sections—“Mind,” “Body,” and “Planet”—they cover such diverse topics as the evils and ills of factory farming and the joys of packing tasty vegetarian treats for a child’s lunch. A Buddhism expert presents spiritual arguments for reducing meat consumption; another author describes “food waste” parties where meatless leftovers are served. The bulk of the essays eschew meat-shaming and lean toward baby steps (i.e., meatless Mondays) and non-judgmental attitudes. This eclectic compendium (including recipes) will inspire and educate the curious and reticent, as well as those who are already, in some way, walking the reducetarian path. Agent: Linda Konner, Linda Konner Literary Agency.

March 15, 2017

Kateman, cofounder of the Reducetarian Foundation, created the term reducetarian to describe a person whose eating habits are somewhere in the continuum between carnivore and vegetarian. This book is a collection of 60 original essays by various leaders of the meatless and less-meat society who address the idea of reducetarianism from aspects of physical health, conscious decision, and conservation of the planet. Similar to the way that Gary Taubes's The Case Against Sugar exposes how the sugar industry shaped the nation's love affair with the sweetener, several pieces here focus on the ways that the economy and corporations have shaped the country's obsession with meat consumption. The plight of farm animals and livestock welfare is also highlighted. While numerous articles such as Ginny Messina's "How To Satisfy Young Fussy Eaters" offer delightfully practical guidance, the overwhelming majority of the essays are focused on convincing readers to adopt a reducetarian lifestyle. Pat Crocker includes over 40 reducetarian recipes at the end of the volume. VERDICT This book will be of interest to environmentally conscious readers who wish to reexamine their dietary choices.--Crystal Renfro, Kennesaw State Univ., Marietta, GA

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